"In recognition of the Elks dedication and constant assistance to the Veterans, especially in this community, we would like to make a special presentation," Dennis Lynch said as he began a tribute to the Mesquite Elks Lodge #2811, Saturday morning, Feb. 4 at the Mesquite Veterans Center.

The Vietnam Veterans of America organization was honoring nine Elks who provided the bulk of van transportation for veterans who needed a ride to medical facilities in Las Vegas, NV.

Lynch and Veterans Service Officer, Jim Brown, gave each of the Elk volunteers a commemorative wooden carved key chain in appreciation along with a plaque honoring the Elks organization.

Elks members

receiving the honor were Howard Koontz, Harold Straley, Brian Holecheck, Roger Gessell, Jim Lynch, Richard Booth, James Schearer, Jim Lochner, and Sam Latendresse.

The Elks Lodge has provided transportation for Mesquite Veterans for over eight years. In calendar year 2011 alone, the Elks transported 677 veterans in 205 trips. The total number of van miles driven was 38,909, taking 2,480 hours.

"We have a real partnership with the Elks," Lynch said after the ceremony. "They have provided financial support for us, helped construct divider walls in our Veteran Center offices, and helped install computers and Internet access here. We appreciate their contribution to the Veterans Center and to the community."