POTSDAM – Elks Lodge 2074 is planning what is expected to be an annual event to help Cpl. Aaron Howell, who lost both legs fighting in Afghanistan, with life-long living expenses.

The inaugural Aaron Howell Banquet will take place at the Elks lodge, 10 Elm St., Friday, Oct. 8, at 6:30 p.m. and is open to the public.

Howell, a Parishville resident, is recovering at Walter Reed Armed Forces Medical Center in Washington, D.C. from his major combat wounds.

His father, David Howell of Parishville, and two family members, will be the guests of honor at the banquet.

Tickets are $20 each and a minimum of $10 from each will go directly to the fund recently established by the lodge to assist Howell and his family “during the difficult days that lie ahead for them.”

The Elks have set up the program “with the assumption that Aaron will need help for the rest of his life, and thus it is hoped that this banquet will become an annual event,” said Robert W. Watkin, chairman of the Elks Veterans Services Committee. “Aaron and soldiers like him have done so much for us. It is an honor to try to do something for him and his family.

Also at the banquet will be a chance to sign up for Christmas trees grown locally by a lodge member. Ninety percent of the proceeds will go to the Howell fund.

Banquet tickets may be picked up at the lodge. Diners will have a choice of roast beef or ham. Deadline for ticket sales is Sept. 30.

For more information, call 265-2074.