By Capt Joseph R. John, June 14, 2023 

On June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress took a break from writing the Articles of Confederation and passed the "Flag Resolution" stating that "the flag of the United States be 13 stripes, alternate red and white," and that "the union be 13 stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation."

On May 30, 1916, Flag Day was officially established by the Proclamation of President Woodrow Wilson to occur June 14, 1916, and every year thereafter on June 14th.  While Flag Day was celebrated in various communities on June 14th for years following President Wilson's proclamation, it was not until August 3, 1949, that President Harry Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 14th of each year as National Flag Day.

The “American Flag” symbolizes the principles outlined in the US Constitution drafted by the Founding Fathers.  The American Flag is one of the great symbols of our country, a source of inspiration throughout our nations’ history, and a symbol of America’s Freedoms.  Old Glory flies over Washington, DC’s Capital building, every state capitol building, all US Military installations, US Military and Veteran Cemetery, Federal Buildings, Veteran facilities, city halls, schools, and colleges, and even on the moon. 

While the number of stars has increased from 13 to 50 over the last 247 years, so, too, have the challenges it has had to face increased.  Today, the “American Flag” still waves proudly, standing as a symbol of democracy, America’s freedoms, and hope. 

It is no coincidence that our flag has helped America and its communities heal in times of distress.  Our flag signaled the birth of a new nation.  It restored order after the Civil War threatened our nation’s existence, served as hope in Iwo Jima, Europe and elsewhere as the tides turned in World War II, and created unity after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.  

It has been a century since the creation of the US Flag Code, established guidelines that are still in existence today.  The Public Law 105–225, largely codified in Title 36 of the U.S. Code, addresses conduct when the U.S. National Anthem is being played while the “American Flag” is present.  That law suggests civilians in attendance should face the flag "at attention" (standing upright) with their hand over their heart.  American US Military Veterans are authorized to render the right-hand salute. 
 

Flag Day is an opportunity for Patriotic Americans to demonstrate their respect for the “American Flag,” and to set an example for younger generations, of their deep respect for the “American Flag,” and by demonstrating their respect for the “American Flag,” they are demonstrating their support for the Republic.  

All members of the US Armed Forces raise their right hand and swear to protect and defend the US Constitution, under the “American Flag.”  Through the ages, more than 42 million Americans Patriots, have served in the US Armed Forces and have protected and defended the Republic under the “American Flag”, as their sacred standard.  Those American Patriots who served the Republic under the “American Flag” upon their passing, during burial ceremonies, are honored by being shrouded in the “American Flag.”  

Through the last 247 years, the “American Flag” has been the Patriotic banner under which the nation has come together and remained united.  True Americans Patriots have rejected the relentless efforts by America’s Domestic Enemies to divide the Republic by creating racial and gender identity conflicts within the Republic.   

The meaning, influence, and inspiration of the “American Flag” has been passed down from generation to generation.  That sacred duty has been a point of pride for Patriotic Americans and organizations which have instructed students in flag etiquette, performance of flag retirement ceremonies, and the posting of flags on Veterans’ graves. 

Today, Flag Day, is a great reminder of the importance of the Red, White, and Blue.  Join me in honoring the American Flag!  Every American Patriot should continue to preserve the “American Flag” legacy, passing its meaning on to youth and future generations----protecting it at all costs.  Not just today but every day. 

Copyright by Capt Joseph R. John.  All Rights Reserved.  The material can only be posted on another Web site or distributed on the Internet by giving full credit to the author.  It may not be published, broadcast, or rewritten without the permission from the author.