President Ulysses S. Grant once said, "We identify the flag with almost everything we hold dear on earth; peace, security, liberty, our family, our friends, our home...But we look at our flag and behold it emblazoned with all our rights we must remember that it is equally a symbol of a duties.  Every glory that we associate with it is the result of the duty done."

The first official national flag was raised on June 14, 1777.  This would become known as Flag Day.  We fly flags throughout the year to show our support and loyalty to not only our country , but also to honor the men and women who have fought and died to protect this great nation.  The flag is especially flown during holidays such as Independence Day, Veterans Day, and Memorial Day.

The colors of the flag are White which represents purity and innocence, Red for hardiness and valor, and Blue for vigilance, perserverance, and justice.  For 200 years the American Flag has served as a source of pride and patriotism, a beacon of unity and healing, a symbol in ceramony and celebration, and a way to honor deceased veterans.  For me the American Flag will always represent the lives that were sacrificed so we can have the freedom we have today.