On July 22, Orlando Elks Lodge #1079 used its $1,000 Elks National Veterans Service Commission Freedom Grant to host a trip to Kennedy Space Center for five veterans — three lodge members and two nonmembers. The group was transported via a luxury Gray Line bus, with lodge trustee and professional tour guide, Carmen Rivera, leading them. The veterans were the last to board the bus. As Rivera introduced each veteran by name, military branch, rank and years of service, the passengers stood and applauded and waved small American flags, provided by the lodge. The veterans began their journey with a tour of the Rocket Garden, where towering relics of the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo programs stood as tributes to the spirit of exploration. The group then explored KSC’s newest addition, The Gantry at Launch Complex 39, which provides a closer look at the launch pad and features a simulated rocket engine experience. At the Apollo/Saturn V Center, they witnessed a recreation of the Apollo 8 launch and walked beneath the massive Saturn V rocket, the most powerful rocket ever flown. They even touched a genuine moon rock. At the Atlantis exhibit, they were feet from the space shuttle and learned about its 33 space missions. There, the veterans explored interactive simulators, including docking a shuttle to the International Space Station. The veterans then had time with two astronauts, who offered handshakes, posed for photos and shared captivating stories. Throughout the day, the veterans were treated to lunch, refreshments and keepsakes. The day ended with a live shuttle launch.

Pictured are veterans Jack St. Laurence and Roger Bristol; Carmen Rivera, lodge trustee and tour guide; and veterans Ralph Bemos, Hall Hatmaker and Victor Berrios. Touching the moon rock is Hall Hatmaker.