If you grew up in the 60s, there were many battles over the US Flag. How is it displayed, how is it retired; even issues of burning the flag in defiance were part of the news. Today is Flag Day and as with other aspects of the U.S. Government, there is a story behind the story.

There were very few public ceremonies honoring the flag until June 14, 1877, when it was first flown from every government building for the centennial of the flag’s adoption. After that, many citizens and organizations advocated the adoption of a national day of commemoration for the flag. In 1916 President Woodrow Wilson unofficially proclaimed June 14 as Flag Day. Coincidentally, he proclaimed “The Star-Spangled Banner” as the national anthem until 1931 and only in 1949 did President Harry Truman sign the legislation that made June 14 of each year Flag Day. June 14 is designated as a day of national observance for all Americans, but it is not a federal holiday.

Since then, the President proclaims the commemoration each year and encourages all Americans in the country to display the flag outside their homes and businesses. Usually, during Flag Day, the flag is flown from all public buildings, speeches are made in public places and ceremonies take place in towns or cities.

Enjoy today - be proud of your flag.

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