I wonder how many of our readers know that the observance of June 14 – Flag Day –

is a law of the land, passed in 1949.  Its intent is to honor  that  same day in 1777, when members of the Second Continental Congress were inspired to pass the first flag resolution, holding the red, white and blue flag a sovereign symbol of this young nation.

“Resolved, that the flag of the United States be thirteen stripes, red and white;

that the union be thirteen stars, white in a field of blue representing a new constellation.”

June 14, 1777 – Second Continental Congress

Philadelphia

As a country of symbols, this one in particular, the flag, may not to some supercede all others; but its very essence and what it represents,  gives we the people who live under it, an understanding of our inalienable rights – including the freedom to pledge allegiance to it, or not.

Following September 11, 2001, there was a resurgence of ‘flag-waving.’ – There didn’t have to be a national holiday to display the colors.  In recent years, however, I’ve noticed a waning interest in displays of patriotism.  Even though there is a presidential proclamation recognizing Flag Day every year, little, if anything, is reported by the media – national or local.  It seems like this day has been relegated to the “B’ list of holidays, maybe because we don’t have the day off.

A little more respect seems due for this symbol of our ‘new constellation.’ – And what better day to show that respect than Flag Day.

Long may it wave…

Until next month,

Michael Hoffman