Springfield Elks Lodge recently had their annual “Membership Recognition Night” for their members. Before Elk of the Year and Officer of the Year were awarded, they honored two gents who have been members for over 70 years.
Raymond Latelle joined the Elks in 1942 before going off to WWII as a pilot in the Army Air Corps, making him the longest tenured member of Springfield Lodge of over 75 years. Exalted Ruler Vicki Siliski presented him with the “Citizen of the Year” plaque. As the oldest member of Springfield Elks at 97, Exalted Ruler Vicki Siliski presented Charles “Bob” Brent with a plaque for his many years as an Elk at 72 years.
Ray Latelle, 75 year member of Springfield Elks Lodge, is shown being presented with his “Citizen of the Year” plaque by Exalted Ruler Vicki Siliski.
Charles “Bob” Brent is shown accepting his oldest living member plaque of 97 years from Exalted Ruler Vicki Siliski and Past State President of Springfield Elks Lodge Donald Bishop.
News item submitted by Mike Gunn.