EDITORIAL

By April Taylor
Published: June 13, 2008

Let’s face it. When it comes to summer holidays, Flag Day really gets the shaft. It’s the overlooked gem in the box, the ugly duckling on the lake, if you will.
Millions of families busy themselves this month with honoring graduates or celebrating dad for Father’s Day. And rightfully so.
Then the calendar flips to July, and all minds turn to plans for Fourth of July and fireworks.
But what about Flag Day?
Old Glory deserves more than a moment of respect.
Flag Day is June 14. And no, it’s not an official federal holiday where we get a day off from work. And, no, the greeting card industry never makes a killing off this holiday.
But in recognition of the day, here are some facts about the American flag and Flag Day.
Did you know…
• Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the Untied States flag. On June 14, 1777, in order to establish an official flag for the new nation, the Continental Congress passed the first Flag Act: “Resolved, That the flag of the United States be made of thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new Constellation.”
• On May 30, 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established a day nationally to celebrate the nation’s symbol.  On August 3, 1949, President Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 14 of each year as National Flag Day.
• One of the largest Flag Day parades is held annually in Troy, New York. Pennsylvania is the only state in the nation to celebrate Flag Day as a state holiday.
• The week before Flag Day is National Flag Week. 
• Traditional flag etiquette says that when the American flag is flown with flags of states, communities, or societies on separate flag poles which are of the same height and in a straight line, the flag of the United States is always placed in the position of honor - to its own right. 
The Untied States flag, represents our independence and unity as a country. Happy Flag Day to all.