06/14/2025
Why Do We Celebrate Flag Day? Here's the History Behind It!
Every June 14th, Americans across the nation pause to honor one of our most enduring symbols of freedom — the United States Flag. But did you know that Flag Day has deep roots in our nation’s history?
📜 The Origin:
On June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution stating that “the flag of the United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white... and that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field.” This marked the official adoption of the Stars and Stripes as our national flag.
🎓 Who Started It?
A Wisconsin schoolteacher named Bernard J. Cigrand is widely recognized as the "Father of Flag Day." In 1885, he held the first recognized Flag Day celebration with his students and tirelessly advocated for a national observance.
📅 Official Recognition:
In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation establishing June 14 as Flag Day. It wasn’t until 1949 that Congress officially enacted it into law, with President Harry S. Truman signing the bill that made Flag Day a permanent annual observance.
🇺🇸 Why We Celebrate Today:
Flag Day is more than just about honoring the fabric — it’s about what the flag stands for: freedom, unity, sacrifice, and resilience. From 13 colonies to 50 united states, the flag has flown through revolution, war, triumph, and change.
So today, as you see Old Glory waving in the breeze, take a moment to reflect on the ideals it represents and the history it carries.
