Honoring The Flag As A Symbol of America's Freedoms
"Today we salute an omnipresent but often overlooked symbol of great importance: our flag. Flown high and proud over our schools, city halls, and the great historical monuments of our nation, the Stars and Stripes serves as a powerful reminder of the unity and strength of America.
"The flag reminds us of the sacrifices of those Americans who died serving their country, whether in great wars recorded in history books, or men and women waging war on terror across the world at this very moment. We know that the flag is a potent symbol of our faith in the founding ideals and tenants of the United States: a symbol of freedom to be sure, but also a symbol of America's spirit.
"Flag Day - the anniversary of the Flag Resolution of 1777 - was officially established by the Proclamation of President Woodrow Wilson on May 30th, 1916. While Flag Day was celebrated in various communities for years after Wilson's proclamation, it was not until August 3rd, 1949, that President Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 14th of each year as National Flag Day.
"As John Philip Souza wrote, ‘The red and white and starry blue; Is freedom's shield and hope.' This shield, in its inimitable design, tells the story of disparate states joining to prosper and grow - eventually creating the country we know now as America. Upon the shoulders of the citizens who made this possible will stand the new generations of heroes and patriots.
"Please join me today in recognizing the flag as a very special symbol of our nation's heritage. We are grateful for the sacrifices of those who served underneath its banner, and we vow to always remember our obligation to ensure the freedom it represents."
Constituents have the opportunity to purchase U.S. flags that have been flown over the U.S. Capitol at any time. The flags are available in cotton or nylon and can be ordered in several sizes. The prices range from $16.05 to $27.05, and these prices include the shipping and handling of the flag direct from Rep. Hoyer's Washington office to the address of your choice. Every flag is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity to show it was flown over the U.S. Capitol. Please visit www.hoyer.house.gov or call 202-225-4131 for more information.
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