My American Century Dictionary says; best, or select group, or class...
I take this to mean for example, the; Masons, Marines, Army, Navy, Airforce, Coast Guard, Buckskinners, Gun Builders, Teachers, Doctors, Brick Layers, Piano Players, High Power Bench Shooters, NSSA Members, NRA Members, NMLRA Members, the list goes on and on... We are all part of some elite group whether you know it or not...
There's nothing wrong with belonging and doing your best to become the best at what you do... As I said, there are no high or low marks, only what you make of what you do...
If you want to staddle the fence, then straddle the fence. Don't turn your nose down at those who chose to, and choose now to be, part of elite group's that formed and fought for our country, and those who teach us, and heal us, and those who take the time to try and provide something that is unique that all can enjoy if they so desire. Just because it might be traditional doesn't make it bad...