Throughout the summer, we celebrate many holidays that honor our country and those that made sacrifices for our freedoms such as Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. One of these summer holidays that most of us tend to overlook is Flag Day, celebrated on June 14.
The flag of the United States of America represents all that should be important to Americans. It represents liberty, justice and freedom, rights that all Americans have the privilege of enjoying.
Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States of America on June 14, 1777. Declared a day of observance by President Woodrow Wilson on June 14, 1916, President Harry Truman did not give Flag Day its official holiday designation until June 14, 1949.
As to the design of the American flag, the 13 stripes on the flag signify the original 13 colonies. The white stripes represent purity and innocence and while the red stripes are for hardiness and valor. Each star, totaling 50, represents a state of the United States of America.
We celebrate this day by displaying the American flag at our homes, schools and governmental offices. There is certain etiquette regarding the display of the flag, including:
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- Display the flag between sunrise and sunset.
- The flag may be displayed for 24 hours if illuminated at night.
- Only fly the flag during suitable weather.
- Do not let the flag touch the ground.
- Raise and lower the flag respectfully
As Americans, we should be proud of what our flag stands for. It not only signifies the rights and freedoms that we enjoy, but the sacrifices made by our service men and women to ensure we have those rights and freedoms.
Please show your respect for our nation and our veterans by displaying and respecting our flag.
Ronald G. Rios
Director
Middlesex County Board of Chosen Freeholders