LaMATS Celebrates Flag Day

This Thursday, June 14, marks the day in 1777 when the US flag was adopted by a resolution of the Second Continental Congress. The date was officially designated Flag Day by President Woodrow Wilson in 1916, and in August 1946, National Flag Day was established by an Act of Congress.

In a Proclamation released on June 8 of this year, President Donald J. Trump continued the tradition of recognizing the Stars and Stripes this week, noting the many lives of brave men and women of the armed forces lost in defense of the country for which it stands:

"...Our flag symbolizes our solemn pride and eternal gratitude to our service members, who willingly raise their hand in front of our Nation's colors and take an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. Our flag also serves as a final acknowledgement of our country's gratitude to the families of those soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, and coastguardsmen who have given their last full measure of devotion to our country. After the echo of the last rifle volley and the final notes of 'Taps' fade away, the flag is carefully folded and presented to the grieving families of our fallen heroes to serve as a source of comfort and strength in times of immense sorrow."

LaMATS reminds readers to sign up for our free Half-Staff Notification service to learn via email and social media when our National symbol is directed to be lowered and raised in honor or acknowledgement of solemn events throughout the year.