Why is june 14 flag day

If you are being blocked from reading Subscriber Exclusive content, first confirm you are logged in using the account with which you subscribed. If you are still experiencing issues, please describe the problem below and we will be happy to assist you. More than flags are on display in the field next to the Jacobus Vanderveer House in Bedminster, Thursday, May 27, Lori M. Today, June 14, is Flag Day, a time set aside to honor the Stars and Stripes and the role the flag has played in American history.

The date of the commemoration is significant. The first national observance of the day took place on June 14, , years after the original resolution. This annual holiday celebrates the history and symbolism of the American flag. Learn about the history of this holiday and the beloved Stars and Stripes! The Declaration of Independence made the adoption of an American flag necessary. Previously, each colony or special interest had its own flag. The origins of the Stars and Stripes have become part of American folklore.

Although many people believe that Betsy Ross designed and sewed the first flag, there is no true proof of this. However, records do indicate that she made ensigns and pennants for the Philadelphia navy during the war. Various towns in colonial America have claimed to be the birthplace of the Stars and Stripes. This may also be the stuff of legend. The first American flag was designed to represent the 13 original colonies with 13 white stars on a blue field and 13 alternating red and white stripes.

One of the first flag designs had the stars arranged in a circle, based on the idea that all colonies were equal. Flag Day, celebrated annually on June 14 , is not an official federal holiday, but its observance is traditionally proclaimed each year by the president of the United States. On Flag Day, many towns and cities hold parades and events to celebrate the flag, and the colors are to be flown at all government buildings.

It became the unofficial national flag, preceding the star, stripe version. June 14, Flag Day was observed nationally for the first time on the th anniversary of the Stars and Stripes—and continues today.

June 14, Pennsylvania became the first state in the United States to celebrate Flag Day officially as a state holiday. July 4, The new star flag was flown for the first time—the flag that still flies today. The Grand Union Flag, the first unofficial national flag, represented here on a postage stamp. The Continental Congress left no record as to why it chose these colors.

However, in , the Congress of the Articles of Confederation chose the colors for the Great Seal of the United States with these meanings:. According to the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, the colors originated with the British flag, which is called the Union Jack and was a combination of the Scottish cross of St. Andrew white on blue and the English cross of St.

George red on white at the time. The modern British flag also incorporates the Irish cross of St. Patrick into its design. He handed in his creation to his history teacher for a class project, explaining that he expected Hawaii would soon achieve statehood as well. Heft also sent the flag to his congressman, Walter Moeller, who presented it to President Eisenhower after both new states joined the Union. Unlike setting an intact flag on fire, flying one upside-down is not always intended as an act of protest.

According to the Flag Code, it can also be an official distress signal. The Flag Code stipulates that the Stars and Stripes should not be used as apparel, bedding or drapery. The practice of draping coffins in the American flag is not reserved for military veterans and government officials. On the contrary, any burial may incorporate this tradition.

Etiquette calls for American flags to be illuminated by sunlight or another light source while on display. During the Vietnam War era, some demonstrators burned American flags as an act of protest. The Flag Protection Act of was enacted in response, making it illegal to burn or otherwise deface the Stars and Stripes.

Respectful burning of damaged flags according to established protocol has always been acceptable. When flags are taken down from their poles, care must be taken to keep them from touching the ground. In fact, the American flag should always be kept aloft, meaning that rugs and carpets featuring the Stars and Stripes are barred by the Flag Code.

When the flags of cities, states, localities or groups are flown on the same staff as the American flag, Old Glory should always be at the peak.