Elks to host salute for veterans

SUSSEX BOROUGH — With Memorial Day approaching, everyone is preparing to honor the Veterans who have lost their lives serving our country.
Once again this year Sussex Elks Lodge will recognize not only the soldiers who gave their lives but those who were fortunate enough to come home.
Sussex Elks Lodge 2288 will host their 4th Annual Salute to Veterans Ceremony on May 22. The wreath laying ceremony will begin at 2 p.m. at High Point Monument. Dinner will follow at 4 p.m. at Sussex Elks Lodge.
The Elks service to Veterans goes back to World War I when they built the First Reconstruction Hospital to accommodate the wounded. In 1926 the Elks opened its national headquarters and memorial building and it was dedicated to the fighting men of World War I. It was rededicated again to honor those who served in World War II and then again a 3rd time to honor the Korean and Vietnam soldiers who sacrificed their lives. The Elks were also the first organization to recognize the Vietnam Veterans service to our county, 10 years before any other organization, including the United States government.
We still continue to welcome home veterans currently serving in the Middle East.
The public is welcome to join the Elks in honoring all veterans at the ceremony as well as dinner. Veterans will have a complimentary dinner of Roast Beef and Chicken. Non-Veterans will be asked for a $10 donation.
Sussex Elks Lodge is located at 152 County Route 565, Wantage, NJ. For any questions, please contact sussexelks2288@gmail.com, Patty Green at 201-400-6104 or Jim Adams at 973-670-7235.