TODAY IS FLAG DAY.... JUNE 14, 2006

Day set aside annually to honor American Flag
By Greg Purvis
The Daily Sentinel

Published June 14, 2006
The official flag of the United States of America has come to symbolize many things to many people: a red, white and blue reminder of the freedoms we enjoy as Americans and the price that this freedom sometimes costs to maintain. June 14 was set aside as Flag Day, a time to remember that we are all one nation, under one flag, united for the cause of liberty and justice.

Flag Day was established by a congressional resolution in 1949 to commemorate the day in 1777 when the Continental Congress adopted the stars and stripes as the official flag of our republic.

“On Flag Day, we look to the red, white and blue as a symbol of our commitment to advancing the universal hope of liberty and justice for all,” said President George W. Bush in a speech to commemorate National Flag Week. “Old Glory abounds in the landscape of our daily lives, reminding us of the freedom we share. The 50 stars and 13 stripes are not just a random pattern; they symbolize the blessings of liberty we enjoy as Americans.”

Scottsboro’s Mayor Dan Deason encourages citizens to wear patriotic colors tomorrow, to celebrate our heritage and honor the Americans who have fought for our freedoms.

“We’re encouraging people to display Old Glory in front of their businesses and homes. We’re all proud of our colors. This is a trying time for America, and we need to show our support for our troops overseas and at home.”

Flags have historically been a way to rally troops on the battlefield, and as icons used to pay homage to kings, generals, and fallen heroes. In the United States, a flag is a symbol as well: a symbol that goes beyond our military might to speak to the people themselves. Our flag is a physical reminder, a symbol that stands for our history, our personal allegiance to the nation, and the ideals that we hold sacred as both individuals, and as a nation of many.
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