Eagles symbolize American pride and freedom to the world, but a little closer to home they symbolize shared prosperity as well.

This year, the Fraternal Order of Eagles Ironton Aerie 895 has donated more than $17,000 to the Ironton Police Department, the Ironton Fire Department and the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office respectively. The City of Ironton received more than $14,000, to date.

In total, the fraternity of 810 members and 300 Ladies Auxiliary donated $65,436.65 to the four entities, so far.

"Our membership feels that there is no better way for our monies to be spent than to protect the people in our city and our county with police protection and fire protection and (provide for) the needs of our seniors," said George Stamper, current secretary of the Ironton Aerie and former state officer.

The organization must donate 50 percent of its earnings to charity to remain in compliance with the state's gaming laws governing instant bingo, Stamper said.

After meeting the approval of the state's Attorney General's office, members decided to give 10 percent to each of these local emergency departments and 20 percent toward a grant for the City of Ironton.

Their latest donations total more than $4,600 to each of the three police and fire agencies and approximately $2,700 to the mayor's office.

The fire department will use the funds to purchase a towing vehicle for the trailer used in hazardous material removal and rescue, Stamper said. Meanwhile, the Ironton Police Department plans to purchase used cruisers so that every officer can have a vehicle.

"Both of those programs will be funded strictly by the Eagles. No city funds in any way will be contributed to this," Stamper said.

The Sheriff's office will use their portion of the money to finance special programs. The City of Ironton will put its monies toward purchasing much needed office furniture and other items that will benefit area seniors.

"The donation by the Ironton Eagles made this year represents one of the largest donations by a fraternal or civic organization in Ironton," said Mayor John Elam.

Elam offered his thanks to the fraternity.

"I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the trustees, officers and members of the Ironton Eagles 895," he said. "Their gifts will allow the City of Ironton to better serve its residents."

Stamper said he had been involved in the Ironton Eagles 895 since 1984. Being a part of an organization that awards scholarships, provides for the sick, elderly and those with other needs, has brought him great personal satisfaction.

"Our organization's motto is 'People helping people.' We're proud of that," Stamper said. "ŠJust to know that Fraternal Order of Eagles do so much help people in the community, (means so much to me)."