As this emblem is first in our hearts as loyal Americans,

so is it close to hour altar as loyal Elks.

The gentle breezes with lingering caress kiss the folds of no Flag which can compare with it in beauty.

There is no such red in budding rose, in falling leaf or sparkling wine,

no such white in April blossom, in crescent moon or mountain snow,

no such blue in woman’s eye, in ocean’s depth or heaven’s dome,

and no such pageantry of clustering stars and streaming light in all the spectrum of the sea and sky.

In the name of this great Brotherhood,

and on behalf of this Lodge,

I present you with this,

hour Flag.

Preserve it as a memento of this occasion,

and may it ever stimulate you to the performance of your full duty in the preservation and defense of all it represents.

The Flag Charge is a solemn and symbolic ritual within the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks that emphasizes patriotism, national loyalty, and the reverence of the American flag. It is traditionally delivered during the initiation ceremony of new members and stands as one of the most meaningful components of the Elks’ commitment to Americanism.

Historical Background:

• Origins: The Flag Charge became a formal part of Elks ritual in the early 20th century, though the reverence for the American flag dates back to the Order’s founding in 1868. As the Elks grew in size and national presence, they increasingly emphasized civic virtues such as patriotism, unity, and support for American ideals.

• Standardization: The ritual language of the Flag Charge was standardized by the Grand Lodge and incorporated into the official Ritual of the Order. It is mandated as part of the Initiation Ritual, highlighting its importance in framing the Elks’ values to new members.

Structure and Symbolism:

• The Loyal Knight, one of the four presiding officers in the Lodge, typically delivers the Flag Charge.

• During the Charge:

  • The American flag is presented solemnly into the Lodge room.

  • New members are reminded of their duty to country, respect for the nation’s heritage, and obligation to uphold the principles of liberty and justice.

  • The ritual often includes language referring to the flag as the emblem of freedom, sacrifice, and national unity.

• The Charge serves both as:

  • A reminder of the sacrifices made by those who defended the nation.

  • A pledge of allegiance by new members to uphold patriotic values and community responsibility.

Significance:

• Patriotism: The Flag Charge reinforces the Elks’ deep-rooted commitment to American ideals. The Order has long been a champion of Americanism, flag etiquette, and civic education.

• Civic Responsibility: By including the Flag Charge during initiation, the Elks emphasize that membership carries not only social and charitable duties but also a responsibility to the nation.

• Continuity and Tradition: The ritual links new initiates to generations of Elks who have upheld this patriotic duty, providing a sense of continuity and shared purpose.

• Public Demonstration: In some Lodges and special ceremonies (especially around Flag Day, which Elks championed into a national holiday), the Flag Charge may be presented publicly to showcase the Order’s enduring reverence for the flag and country.