Kids are naturally curious and holidays are a great time to teach! We've got a video just for them and some information for you too!
Macaroni KID Monroe-West Monroe was given permission by Hey! Guess What? To share this awesome video with you!
Don't forget to Subscribe to our FREE Weekly E-Newsletter!
Every year on June 14th, Americans celebrate Flag Day. It is a day dedicated to commemorating the adoption of the United States flag, which happened on June 14, 1777. This day is important to Americans because the flag is a symbol of their country and its values.
The first Flag Day was celebrated in 1877, on the 100th anniversary of the flag's adoption. However, it was not until 1949 that Congress officially designated June 14th as a national holiday, calling for the display of the flag in all public buildings. Today, Flag Day is celebrated across the country with parades, ceremonies, and other events.
The American flag has a rich history and has evolved over time. The original flag, known as the "Stars and Stripes," had 13 stars and 13 stripes, representing the 13 original colonies. As new states were added to the Union, stars were added to the flag. Today, the flag has 50 stars, representing the 50 states, and 13 stripes, representing the original colonies.
American Flag Craft
The colors of the flag also have symbolic meaning. Red represents valor and bravery, white represents purity and innocence, and blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice. The stars on the flag represent the unity of the states, while the stripes represent the original colonies.
On Flag Day, Americans are encouraged to display the flag in their homes and businesses. It is also a day to honor the men and women who have fought to defend the flag and the country it represents. Many schools and organizations hold Flag Day ceremonies, where students and community members gather to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and sing the national anthem.
How to Retire an American Flag
When an American flag becomes tattered or worn out, it is important to properly dispose of it in a respectful manner. Here are the steps to properly dispose of a tattered American flag:
1. Determine if the flag is no longer serviceable: If the flag is ripped, faded, or otherwise damaged to the point where it is no longer suitable for display, it should be retired.
2. Find a local organization that accepts worn-out flags: Many American Legion posts, VFW chapters, and other patriotic organizations have flag collection boxes where you can drop off your tattered flag, including Chennault Aviation and Military Museum, you can also purchase a new flag from their gift shop (admission is always free). You can take your flag into the museum or leave it in the convenient retirement receptacle in their parking lot.
Here are some of the nearby American Legion Halls:
401 Forsythe Ave., Monroe, LA
(318)387-1788
PO Box 2872, West Monroe, LA
(318)450-7387
1211 Powell St., Monroe, LA
(318)600-4242
213 Holdiness Rd., Rayville, LA
(318)334-5675
106 Underwood Rd., Farmerville, LA
Email: john6339@att.net
2425 Rhody Dr, Ruston, LA 71270
 American Legion Hall, 401 Forsythe Ave., Monroe, LA |
3. Prepare the flag for disposal: Before disposing of the flag, it should be folded in the traditional triangle shape. This is the same way the flag is folded when it is presented at a military funeral.
 |
4. Conduct a flag retirement ceremony: Many organizations hold flag retirement ceremonies to properly dispose of flags in a respectful manner. This ceremony can include a reading of the Pledge of Allegiance or a moment of silence. The flag should be burned in a respectful manner, such as in a fire pit or furnace, while those in attendance stand at attention and salute.
5. Dispose of the ashes: Once the flag has been burned, the ashes should be collected and buried in a respectful location. This could be a cemetery or a special flag retirement area.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your tattered American flag is disposed of in a respectful and dignified manner.
We hope you enjoyed learning about the American Flag!
