Fly the Flag: Community Encouraged to Honor Flag Day, June 14

This June, Americans across the country will mark Flag Day on Saturday, June 14, a date that honors the birth of the U.S. flag and the ideals it stands for—unity, freedom, and sacrifice. In communities big and small, the Stars and Stripes will wave from homes, businesses, public buildings, and parade floats as people pause to reflect on the symbol that has rallied a nation for nearly 250 years.

Flag Day commemorates June 14, 1777, when the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution establishing a flag for the newly formed United States. That early design featured 13 alternating red and white stripes and a blue field with 13 white stars, representing the original colonies—a “new constellation” rising in the world.

Though not a federal holiday, Flag Day has long been observed with parades, patriotic ceremonies, school events, and thoughtful displays of the American flag. In Front Royal and Warren County, residents are encouraged to join this tradition by flying the flag, attending a local event, or simply taking a moment of quiet reflection.

A Tradition Rooted in History

The first military use of the American flag came just months after its creation, at the Battle of Brandywine on September 11, 1777. It was first flown over foreign soil in 1778 during the capture of a British fort in the Bahamas. But it would take decades before Americans began to celebrate the flag itself.

An early observance was held in 1877—the flag’s centennial—while a more formal celebration took root in the classroom. In 1889, New York teacher George Balch held a flag ceremony with his students, a tradition that spread and grew. Later, William T. Kerr of Pennsylvania, known as the “Father of Flag Day,” founded the American Flag Day Association, helping to push the idea into the national spotlight.

In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a presidential proclamation calling for an official observance. Flag Day became federal law in 1949, signed by President Harry Truman.

National Flag Week and Local Celebrations

Flag Day is part of National Flag Week (June 8 – 14), when the American people are encouraged to proudly display the flag and reflect on the freedoms it represents. Many civic organizations, including veterans’ groups, schools, and scout troops, will hold parades, essay contests, and public programs. While not a day off work for most, the meaning behind Flag Day often runs deeper than a long weekend—it’s a chance to remember those who served and sacrificed under the flag’s colors.

The Flag as Identity and Warning

The history of flags dates back centuries, with roots in ancient China during the Zhou dynasty (1046–256 BCE). Flags have long been used to identify friends from foes on battlefields and seas. During naval warfare, flags became so important that deceiving opponents with “false flags”—flying friendly colors before revealing one’s true identity—became a tactic still referred to today.

Today, the American flag is not just a battlefield marker but a unifying national symbol. Whether displayed at half-staff in mourning or waved in celebration on the Fourth of July, it remains a visible reminder of the nation’s shared values.

How You Can Celebrate Flag Day 2025

Flag Day is an opportunity to reflect and participate, whether through personal displays or community involvement. Some simple ways to honor the day include:

• Fly the American flag at your home or place of business.
• Teach children the history and etiquette of flag use.
• Attend a local event or memorial ceremony.
• Read or recite the Pledge of Allegiance, reminding yourself of the flag’s significance:

“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

As Saturday, June 14 approaches, take time to celebrate the flag that has endured war, peace, progress, and protest. In doing so, we honor not only a symbol—but the generations who stood behind it.