On Saturday, May 25, 2024, starting at 7 AM, the Portland Elks Lodge #188 will be hosting The Summit Project, a non-profit organization that honors Maine’s post-9/11 fallen heroes. Families of those fallen heroes donate stones that symbolize their loved ones. The stones are then carried to the summit of Mt. Katahdin, where they will be placed in remembrance of the fallen hero.
The day will begin with a continental breakfast at the Portland Lodge. After breakfast, a troop of local scouts will be leading the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem. The scouts will then give a motorcycle rider stones engraved with the names of Maine’s fallen heroes, along with details about each hero, so that they know more about the person whom the stone represents. Riders will then place the stone in their backpack or saddlebag and convoy to Millinocket by 9 a.m. The riders will then pass their stones and information to hikers who will make the trek to the summit of the mountain.
The Maine State Police will accompany the convoy throughout the entire route. The Portland and South Portland Fire Departments will raise the American Flag, under which the convoy will pass. This year, the Maine Elks Motorcycle Riders will also be participating in the event. Gold Star families are also invited as guests for the event.
This will be the Portland Elk Lodge’s 11th year hosting this event. If you would like more information, contact Past Exalted Ruler Martha Binette of the Portland Elks Lodge at sometimesred@gmail.com