Honor the Flag

By Richard Eckstrom
Comptroller General

Sunday, June 14 was one of our nation’s often overlooked holidays.

For many, it passed quietly. There were very few ceremonies, and lots of people didn’t even know it was a holiday.

But to the patriotic among us, it was Flag Day, a day set aside to commemorate the adoption of the flag of the United States.

For more than 200 years, the flag has been a stirring symbol of strength, hope and freedom – freedom we enjoy due to the sacrifices of those who have served to defend their country. The first U.S. flag had 13 stars and 13 stripes symbolizing the American colonies. It was declared the official flag of the new nation by an Act of the Continental Congress in 1777. The flag’s design changed several times between 1776 and 1960 -- the year the 50th star representing the state of Hawaii was added.

In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson, who as a boy lived in Columbia, issued a proclamation declaring June 14 National Flag Day. In 1966, the holiday was formally established by an Act of Congress.

Today, Flag Day has taken on added meaning, particularly among the younger generation, as the events of 9-11 and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have rekindled our sense of national pride. And as the national economic crisis creates anxiety over our national future and our daily lives, there’s a rediscovery of the spirit of “pulling together” – of helping each other during tough times. Indeed, despite the many divisions that exist, the flag reminds us we’re “indivisible.”

On Sunday, June 14, many thankful Americans took time to celebrate more than just a piece of cloth, and to think what it is that makes that particular cloth so special. But it need not take a holiday for us to honor the flag and what it stands for, and to recommit to do our part to keep our country a special place for future generations.

As our leaders grapple with some of the greatest challenges in generations, perhaps that colorful cloth rectangle is more meaningful than ever. Think about what it symbolizes – Unity. Our differences pale in comparison to the common bond we share as Americans. The flag isn’t a province of the political “left” or “right.” It’s not the Republican flag or the Democratic flag, but the flag of the United States and a constant reminder of our common values as Americans.

In the best of times and in the worst of times, every American should honor that flag and thrill to see Old Glory paint the breeze.