To the Editor:

When the founding fathers of our great organization of the Benevolent and Protected Order of Elks was established over 150 years ago (1868) one of the cardinal principles of the order stated "So long as there are Veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will NEVER forget them." With that being said, our Local Lodge, Wareham-New Bedford Lodge #73 makes a great effort to uphold that principal. Today, we were a large part of the Remembrance of a Decorated War Veteran, Christopher Robert Chambers, who has lost his life on our behalf, protecting the United States of America.  

Christopher Robert Chambers was a decorated war veteran who served two tours in the Afghanistan conflict and honorably discharged with the rank of Army Specialist. His medals and awards during his service included Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Company Star; NATO Afghanistan Medal; Army Achievement Medal; National Defense Medal; Global War on Terrorism Medal; and various overseas service ribbons. He was interned today at the National Cemetery in Bourne. On behalf of a grateful nation, state and community, he received an appropriate recognition of respect in front of the WPD as well as the newly erected Hero’s Circle Monument in memory of all that Served in Uniform. 

A special thanks to all those that were present to honor this soldier. Our Veterans Chairman Mike Ward, our Chaplain Rick Duffy, Ted Hatch and other members and guests of the Lodge attended.  Thanks also to Chief John Walcek, Sgt. Henderson of the Wareham Police Department, the State Police, and the staff at Otis Air Force Base for helping in this endeavor.

In addition to today’s memorial, a citation was awarded to Chief Walcek and all members of the WPD stating in part “on behalf of the Veterans Organizations – BPOE; American Legion; VFW; and Friends of Veterans of Wareham.” The WPD was honored and recognized as outstanding and unsung Heroes for the safety and protection of the Community of Wareham. 

We would also like to say thank you to Robertson’s GMC for providing vehicles for the event.

God Bless our fallen Soldier, may he rest in eternal peace and God Bless the USA.

Ted Hatch

Past Veterans Chairman BPOE #73