Recognizing the 100th birthday of a dedicated Elks volunteer
Charles C. Covucci, a long time ENVSC volunteer and convention exhibit coordinator, has set up our booth at the Elks National Convention with a passion that is unmatched.
He painstakingly unpacked uniforms, pictures and other kinds of memorabilia and displayed them all with care. Every item had a story, and Charlie knew them all.
His infectious laugh, mischievous ways and love of pranks made Charlie a star. Our members loved stopping by the booth to listen to Charlie’s stories, his unique perspectives on life, and above all, his great respect for all who served. Despite Charlie’s gregarious nature, he was always quick to point out who the real heroes are—our nation’s veterans.
In July 2006, Charlie was presented with a Special Citation by C. Valentine Bates, PGER at the National Convention in Orlando, Florida, for his 20 plus years of working the ENVSC booth.
In 2007, during the National Convention in Charlottesville, NC, at the young age of 89, Charlie retired and sold his personal collection to Tom Jamison, Playing Cards for Veterans Chair, for $1.00. To this day, Charlie’s items are respectfully displayed and admired by a new generation of Elks members at the ENVSC convention booth year after year.
Charlie is celebrating his 100th birthday in March of this year and is still making people laugh. He and his wife, Dottie live in a retirement community in Florida, where he presides over the pool as Lifeguard, Counselor and Ladies Man.
The ENVSC thanks Charlie for his many years of service, his deep admiration for our Veterans. We wish him and his family all the best, and we appreciate all the volunteers who give their time and energy to serve veterans like he does.
Happy 100th Charlie!
Elks National Veterans Service Commission Blog 