Happy Flag Day

Just a reminder to all that June 14th is Flag Day. Back in 1777 on June 14th the Continental Congress approved the first American flag. In 1818, after 5 more states joined the Union, Congress passed legislation fixing the number of stripes at 13 and requiring that the number of stars equal the number of states. Often referred to as the "Stars and Stripes" or "Old Glory" it represents our history and those who fought to keep our nation a democracy, the land of the free, home of the brave.

We recently had to retire our flag that hung outside of our house. It had become tattered and torn from numerous storms. I had my dad bring it down to the American Legion hall where they respectfully and according to flag regulations, destroy the flag.

There are certain ways one should display and care for our flag since it represents our country, a living nation. The flag itself is considered akin to a living thing and should be cared for in a certain way. Here are some flag rules we should all observe:

• Raise the flag briskly. Lower it ceremoniously.
• Never allow the flag to touch the ground or floor.
• Do not fly the flag in bad weather, unless it is an all-weather flag (Oops!)
  
• The flag can only be flown at night if properly illuminated. Otherwise, it should only be flown from sunrise to sunset.
• The flag should always be allowed to fall free.
• The flag should never be used to carry, store, or deliver anything.
• Never fly the flag upside down except to signal an emergency.

There are many more rules in respects to parades and government displays. I am probably guilty of not complying to some of these regulations. I promise to do better with the next flag we get.

So if you have a flag display it proudly. If you don't, go out there and get one today!