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There is no more powerful symbol of freedom than our precious American flag. Whether you are at an event and participating in the Pledge of Allegiance, or at a stadium listening to the national anthem or even just walking down the street and seeing an American flag displayed at a home in your neighborhood – the feeling is always the same. One of great reverence and pride. Reverence for all the brave men and women who have fought to defend our freedom. And pride in America – as the beacon of hope to the world – committed to liberty, equality, and justice for all.
And, it is at this time of year, we take a moment to celebrate our wonderful American flag. While not a federal holiday akin to the Fourth of July, this week is ‘National Flag Week’ – spanning from June 11th thru June 18th. Highlighted by ‘Flag Day’ that we celebrated earlier this week on June 14th, it’s a time of recognition that holds an important place in the history of our nation, acknowledging the day in 1777 when our then fledgling nation adopted Old Glory as it has been called, as the official colors of the “thirteen United States”.
While taking a break from drafting the Articles of Confederation, the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution which, “resolved, that the flag be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the Union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.” For George Washington, this was an important symbolic step towards unifying colonial fighting forces who at times were flying what were known as the “Continental Colors”, a flag that was composed of thirteen alternating red and white stripes, but which had the Union Jack in place of our now famed stars. He felt that any use of the Union Jack was a demoralizing symbol that could hurt morale in the fight for freedom from British rule.
While Flag Day was observed in an unofficial capacity by some following the end of the Revolution, it wasn't until 1916 when President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that Flag Day be observed every year on June 14th. Even then, Flag Day wasn’t officially codified until August 3rd, 1949, when congress approved its national observance, and President Harry Truman officially signed it into law.
Throughout our history, our flag, much like our nation, has consistently evolved. From the original 13 stars, signifying a new constellation and our new, unified nation, to the 50 which now adorn it, our flag is a powerful symbol of our shared history, our shared sacrifice, and our unwavering belief in life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. During the course of the year, we display the flag at home, in schools, on government buildings, and at local businesses. But Flag Day itself is a day to reflect on the symbol of freedom and unity that the American flag represents and to show appreciation for the country's history and values. So, this weekend, if you haven’t done so already, I encourage you to get out your American flag and display it proudly in honor of this magnificent symbol of our great nation.
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