American Flag
The American flag is a beacon of hope, a symbol of enduring freedom, and an emblem of unity. Many have given their lives in its defense, and countless men and women have worked to ensure that Old Glory continues to stand for the ideals of freedom, justice, and equal opportunity for all. Our flag symbolizes the purpose and resolve of our Nation, first expressed by our Founders who triumphed against great odds to establish this country.
Today, as we face the challenges of a new era, our flag reminds us that freedom will prevail over oppression and that good will overcome evil. Following the attacks of September 11, Americans embraced a renewed sense of the meaning and purpose of our flag. Unforgettable images of our Nation's colors flying defiantly over the debris of the World Trade Center inspired our country with a healing hope, uniting our people in purpose and consoling those who had suffered great loss (Herman,1998). At the Pentagon, an American flag was hung from the building's damaged walls, expressing our collective resolve to rebuild and move forward.
History of American Flag
American mythology holds that Betsy Ross (relative of Declaration of Independence signer George Ross) made the first American flag at the request of George Washington. However, many historians believe that Congressman Francis Hopkinson most likely designed the first flag. Until 1777, there were no rules regarding the design of the flag. It was in 1777 that Congress first prescribed the initial laws for the American flag (Schneider, 2003).
1777: On June 14, 1777 Congress passed the first act to establish an official flag for the United States. The acct stated that the flag would have thirteen alternation red and white stripes and thirteen white stars on a blue background which represented a new constellation.
1794: The next change to the flag came in 1794, when it was decided that the flag would be changed to have fifteen alternation red and white stripes and 15 stars.
1818: Signed into law by President Monroe, the flag was again changed to have thirteen alternating red and white stripes and one star representing each state.
1912: Through an Executive Order by President Taft, the stars of the flag were to be arranged in horizontal rows with the point of each star facing upward.
1959: With the addition of Alaska and Hawaii to the United States, the flag was officially changed to its current arrangement. There are thirteen alternating stripes of red and white and one white star for each state in staggered horizontal rows of nine and staggered vertical rows of eleven on the blue background. We all fly our flags and are very proud of what they stand for but did you know how the flag originated. We are never too old to learn some thing new (Schneider, 2003).
“Today the flag consists of thirteen horizontal stripes, seven red alternating with 6 white. The stripes represent the original 13 colonies; the stars represent the 50 states of the Union. The colors of the flag are symbolic as well: Red symbolizes Hardiness and Valor, White symbolizes Purity and Innocence and Blue represents Vigilance, Perseverance and Justice.” (Web, 1)
Today, around the world, brave men and women are serving under our flag, fighting to preserve freedom and win the war against terrorism. All Americans are profoundly grateful for their service and their sacrifice. We also recognize and commend the contributions of our veterans who have bravely defended our Nation's founding principles throughout our history. Let us remember the struggles and successes for which our flag stands. And as always, we will look to the flag as an everlasting symbol of our commitment to a world of peace, a Nation of principle, and a people of unity.
“The flag, endearingly referred to as "Old Glory," represents all people of America. We, the people, are America. It is little wonder that the people of America are moved when saluting the flag is it passes by, reminding us that we are a part of this great land. We are "one nation under God.” (Web, 2)
I really think it is a good idea to say “The Pledge of Allegiance” in school and at Boy Scout and Girl Scout Meetings. When I say “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America,” I am pledging loyalty to the symbol of freedom of my country. After saying it, I feel like I understand my country just a little bit better and am grateful for all the people who gained us that freedom.
The American Flag means a lot to me. It means justice, freedom, loyalty, and liberty. When people sing “The Star Spangled Banner,” the one line is really important to me. “That our flag was still there”.
Stars represent the 50 states. The stripes of red and white stand for the original 13 colonies. The flag up on that long, thin pole reminds me of what we did in that war. We fought as hard as we could. When the war was over, we had won. That flag stands for more than just a free country (Herman, 1998). It is like a memorial for the people who risked their lives to fight for themselves and their families and future generations to live in freedom.
Now that we are on war, we have to continue to pull together as a nation and show to others around the globe that we are not the isolationist America they think we are. This should have been the ongoing contagious attitude since July 14, 1776, and even to continue after this new war is over, I ask that we continue to show patriotism and “bleed red, white, and blue.
References
Dick Schneider (2003) Stars & Stripes Forever: The History, Stories, and Memories of Our American Flag
John Herman (1998)
Red, White and Blue: The Story of the American Flag
Web, 1: History of American Flag
http://www.usa-flag-site.org/history.shtml
(August 26, 2003)
Web, 2: Flag Etiquette
http://www.ctssar.org/flag_etiquette.htm
(August 26, 2003)