Throughout the year, Americans take the opportunity to thank those who serve and have served in our armed forces. One way many choose to honor those who serve and have served is by flying the U.S. flag. There’s even a day set aside to honor the flag itself. Every June 14 Americans mark Flag Day celebrating the adoption of the flag of the United States on June 14, 1777.
The U.S. flag is an important symbol to all of us, especially to those who have fought for our country. At Lutheran Senior Services, our team has the honor of serving those who have given so much to the United States to protect what this country stands for. It’s truly an honor to have opportunity to help our veterans live their lives to the fullest after having done so much for our country. Many of our welcoming assisted living homes honor LSS resident veterans through special events, veterans’ clubs, and even rooms or displays dedicated to their service.
President Woodrow Wilson designated Flag Day in 1916. During this week, Americans are encouraged to proudly display U.S. flags. Many towns and cities hold Flag Day parades or events, which also falls on the U.S. Army’s birthday.
While the date that the stars and stripes were adopted as the official U.S. flag is known, the origin of the design is not. Stories about the design of the first 13-striped, 13-star flag range from a naval flag designer Francis Hopkinson to upholsterer (and possibly best known rumored flag originator) Betsy Ross to flag maker Rebecca Young.
The current version of the U.S. flag, 13 stripes and 50 stars, holds the record for being the longest in use of the 28 versions that have flown over the United States since 1775.
If you choose to mark Flag Day – or any other holiday – by flying Old Glory, there are a few guidelines to follow:
- If flown at night, the flag should be illuminated.
- The flag should never be dipped to any person or thing.
- The flag should never be allowed to touch the ground.
- If the flag becomes worn or tattered, it should be properly disposed of (The American Legion and other organizations conduct flag retirement ceremonies).