Every year on June 14, the country comes together to honor the symbol of our history, unity and freedom – the American flag. The tradition marks the day in 1777 when the Second Continental Congress adopted the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of the United States.
The original resolution states, “Resolved, That the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”
In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established June 14 as Flag Day.
The stars and stripes represent the 50 states and original 13 colonies. The colors are symbolic: Red meaning valor and hardiness, blue signifying vigilance and justice, and white representing purity and innocence.
Between veterans groups, Scout troops, historical societies, and even those who are just ready for a cookout, everyone can find the opportunity to learn more about the importance of the flag and its values today.
RELATED: What is Flag Day and what Alabama city is known as the City of Six Flags?
The U.S. Flag Code outlines proper etiquette for displaying and handling the American flag. Here’s a summary of the do’s and don’ts. Ultimately, the flag shouldn’t touch the ground. It should be treated with respect and ceremoniously folded when taken down. If worn out, it should be retired through a dignified ceremony.
In the Yellowhammer State, we honor the flag. Here are how some are marking the day:
Happy #FlagDay!
We should always give our proper support to the American flag — stand at attention, hand by your side and salute with your right hand over the heart with elbow parallel to the ground.
Alabama will never forget our Flag stands for freedom. #alpolitics pic.twitter.com/ExcfUAHGZu
— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) June 14, 2023
National Flag Day 2023 pic.twitter.com/EPz2x4sh2L
— USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park (@USS_ALABAMA) June 14, 2023
“Let this grand flag forever be a symbol of the potential before us that free men and women can soar as high as their dreams and energy and ambitions will take them.”
-President Ronald Reagan pic.twitter.com/zvcJLpqm1z
— Attorney General Steve Marshall (@AGSteveMarshall) June 14, 2023
It's ??Flag Day?? and our Athens High School JROTC had the opportunity to be a part of the Flag Day Ceremony at Athens State University, which featured a special message delivered by Chief James Chambers, AHS JROTC Instructor. #athensproud pic.twitter.com/10TW59DRCY
— Athens High School (@AHS_Alabama) June 14, 2023
For today, Flag Day, here's one of my favorite flag photos … shot at the @AmericanLegion Post 199 in Fairhope, Alabama. #FlagDay2023 pic.twitter.com/2rtzzQal8b
— lisa weldon (@lisaweldon) June 14, 2023
Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270
