National Lecturer encourages Grangers to ‘ring for freedom’ July 4

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 1, 2013) — As part of the National Grange Patriot’s Program, National Grange Lecturer Pete Pompper said Friday that he hopes all Granges and Grange members will take part in a salute to those who served in the military by ringing bells at 2 p.m. July 4.

Pompper, who said the idea came after a New York State Grange member, Vinnie Kirmss, read a Dear Abby article suggesting the nationwide tribute.

In the article, contributor Carmella LaSpada, founder of No Greater Love, said President John F. Kennedy called for such a tribute in 1963, asking for everyone across the nation to ring bells on the 4th of July to celebrate freedom.
Pompper said he believes a great way to show our “American Values” is to take a moment to honor veterans and active duty personnel on Independence Day.

“The Grange is so rooted in patriotism and American Values. It would be a wonderful tribute to all the men and women who have served our nation to take part in this nation-wide effort to ring bells in honor of their service,” Pompper said.