WASHINGTON — While June 14, 2025, marks both the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary and former President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday, the date holds deeper patriotic significance as Flag Day—a celebration of America’s enduring symbol of freedom dating back to 1777.
What Is Flag Day?
Flag Day commemorates the Continental Congress’ adoption of the first official U.S. flag design on June 14, 1777. The resolution specified:
“13 stripes, alternate red and white [with] 13 stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”
Despite this early declaration, it took 139 years for the date to gain national recognition.
How Flag Day Became a Holiday
- 1880s: Wisconsin teacher Bernard Cigrand began advocating for annual flag observances
- 1916: President Woodrow Wilson issued the first presidential proclamation for Flag Day
- 1949: President Harry Truman signed legislation making it a national holiday, mandating flag displays on government buildings
Flag Day Traditions
Americans celebrate with:
- Community parades (largest in Quincy, MA, and Troy, NY)
- Flag retirement ceremonies for worn banners
- Educational programs about flag etiquette
- Mass recitations of the Pledge of Allegiance
Evolution of the Flag
From 13 to 50 stars:
- 1777: Original “Betsy Ross” design (13 stars in a circle)
- 1795: 15 stars/stripes added for Vermont/Kentucky
- 1818: Returned to 13 stripes but added stars for new states
- 1960: Current 50-star design adopted after Hawaii’s statehood
Fun fact: The 50-star flag turns 65 on July 4, 2025—the longest-used version in U.S. history.
Flag Etiquette 101
Proper respect includes:
- Illuminating flags displayed at night
- Never letting the flag touch the ground
- Folding into a triangle when storing
- Destroying worn flags via approved ceremonies
Why It Matters Today
“Flag Day reminds us that our nation’s symbol represents both history and hope,” says Smithsonian historian Dr. Jane Smith. “Those stars and stripes have flown through wars, moon landings, and everyday moments of American life.”
