Loren Lippincott
One of my cherished memories from attending a one-room country school during my elementary years was tending to the American flag each day. With an average school size of about a dozen students, the older children taught the younger ones flag protocol, such as how to quickly and proudly run the flag to the top of the mast first thing in the school day before everyone recited the Pledge of Allegiance. We also learned about solemn events outside our local community which we would recognize and honor by lowering our flag to half mast. All of us learned the magic of folding the flag into the triangular shape as is done at military services. Above all, we learned the flag was never to touch the ground and was to be handled reverently with respect and honor.
Flag Day, celebrated annually on June 14, commemorates the official adoption of the American flag by the Continental Congress in 1777. More than just a historical milestone, it serves as a vital national symbol that honors veterans’ sacrifices, unifies citizens across political divides and celebrates the enduring ideals of freedom and democracy.
The American flag is much more than a piece of cloth; it is a visual representation of the country’s core values. The iconic red, white and blue design stands for specific ideals: red for valor and bravery, white for purity and innocence and blue for vigilance, perseverance and justice. When citizens display “Old Glory,” they participate in the living history of the United States and acknowledge the struggles, resilience and triumphs of those who came before them.
The roots of Flag Day provide a fascinating look at grassroots patriotism. While the flag was adopted in 1777, the holiday did not officially exist for more than a century. In 1885, Bernard Cigrand, a devoted schoolteacher in Waubeka, WI, began mobilizing his students to celebrate the flag’s birthday. His tireless advocacy eventually led to a presidential proclamation by President Woodrow Wilson in 1916 establishing Flag Day, and later an official Act of Congress signed by President Harry Truman in 1949.
Flag Day is important because of the flag’s deep significance as a unifying symbol. Throughout American history — from the Revolutionary War to the present day — the Stars and Stripes have remained a constant reminder of our unity and sovereignty. In times of both triumph and crisis, the flag brings people together. It bridges the gap between diverse backgrounds, offering a common banner under which all Americans can gather. Taking a single day to reflect on this emblem helps citizens re-evaluate their civic responsibilities and shared identity as a nation.
Flag Day also provides a dedicated time to honor the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces. It is an occasion to recognize the dedication of current military members and veterans who protect and preserve the freedoms the flag represents. Many communities use this day to pray for troops stationed at home and abroad, acknowledging the immense sacrifices made to keep the nation secure.
Finally, the holiday encourages adherence to the U.S. Flag Code, which provides guidelines on how to properly display and respect the national banner. Knowing these rules ensures that the flag is treated with the dignity it deserves, reflecting a respectful attitude toward the nation itself. One such rule requires the American Flag to be lit at night if it is on display. Also, when properly disposing of a flag, the blue field with the stars must never be divided, but must be kept intact. When on display, the American flag is always to be on its own right, but as the crowd looks toward the flag it is on the audience’s left. The right is considered the place of honor. When the flag is hung vertically, the stars are to be to the left.
Flag Day carries the story of America. From the Revolution to today, the Stars and Stripes have waved over battles, celebrations, and everyday life. It reminds us that we are one nation, under God, with liberty and justice for all. By celebrating Flag Day, Americans keep the spirit of Old Glory alive.
Loren Lippincott represents Legislative District 34 in the Nebraska State Senate. Read his column in the Nance County Journal.