Each year on June 14th, Americans come together to celebrate Flag Day — a day dedicated to honoring the symbol that has waved over our nation’s triumphs, trials, and enduring spirit. The United States flag, with its thirteen stripes and fifty stars, represents not just a piece of fabric, but the living history of a nation built on freedom, sacrifice, and unity.

The origin of Flag Day dates back to June 14, 1777, when the Second Continental Congress passed the Flag Resolution, declaring: “Resolved, That the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.” This moment marked the birth of Old Glory, a banner that would witness the forging of a nation. Over time, as new states joined the Union, stars were added, but the flag’s core design remained a powerful symbol of our growing and united republic.

Throughout American history, the flag has flown proudly over battlefields, embassies, and homes, serving as a beacon of hope and resilience. It was raised at Fort McHenry during the War of 1812, inspiring Francis Scott Key to pen “The Star-Spangled Banner.” It was planted on Iwo Jima during World War II, a moment captured forever as a symbol of American courage. The flag was carried to the surface of the Moon in 1969, proclaiming American ingenuity and determination to the world.

Flag Day reminds us not only of the flag’s history, but of the values it stands for — liberty, justice, and unity. As we reflect on the sacrifices made by generations of patriots who have defended these ideals, we are called to cherish and protect the freedoms that the flag represents.

On this day, let us fly Old Glory high and honor the enduring spirit of the United States of America.