Locals gathered to celebrate Flag Day in Yuma

Ahead of the upcoming holiday, one organization invited the public to celebrate a symbol for our country - 13 On Your Side's Luis Lopez reports

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - While there are many ways to honor America, locals in Yuma got together to celebrate the upcoming Flag Day.

A ceremony took place at the Yuma Elks Lodge 476, who's Exalted Ruler, Sheryl Christenson, was excited to host the event.

“It is truly a wonderful ceremony in learning about the flags,” Christenson said.

The Elks are an organization dedicated to helping fellow Americans.

Lodge 476 in Yuma has been around for over 123 years.

“All of our members are American citizens who guide their way of life by our cardinal rules which are charity, justice, brotherly love and fidelity,” Christenson said.

Many of their events are held with just their members, but Saturday’s ceremony was open to the public.

As chapters throughout the country also held their own celebrations.

Leaders of the Elks presented a complete history of America’s flags.

Including a presentation of other flags which the country previously used, before going to the one we know today, which was the main attraction for Saturday’s ceremony.

“This celebrates our freedom, being able to celebrate our flag and our country, and to have meetings is part of being an American,” Christenson said.