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Focus on the Flag



O say can you see
by the dawn's early light
what so proudly we hail'd
at the twilight's last gleaming,
whose broad stripes and bright stars,
thro' the perilous fight,
o'er the ramparts we watched
were so gallantly streaming?"
-- Francis Scott Key, September 1814
"The Star-Spangled Banner"




Dear Friend,

Our National Anthem tells us of America's historical view of the flag: That even amid the terror of war, we not only fly the flag, but risk life and limb to assure it streams "gallantly."

Any doubts about America's continuing commitment to this spiritual pledge of patriotism were put to rest on the terrible day of September 11, 2001, when, amid the ruins of a merciless terror attack, the American people united as rarely before, and firefighters in New York City hoisted a flag in a proud demonstration of determination reminiscent of Iwo Jima's fighting U.S. Marines, who were willing to make the ultimate sacrifice to defend both our freedom and its greatest symbol.

Following September 11th, the sheer number of flags flown in our community and across the country was nothing short of breathtaking. But as the months went by, many of these flags, perhaps understandably, have come down.

While I am certain that our feelings have not wavered, I also believe it is important to seek out opportunities of outwardly showing our remembrance and continuing resolve. America is at war, a war that may last a long time, and a war whose toughest challenges we have surely yet to confront.

On June 14th our country celebrates Flag Day -- this year on the 225th anniversary of our first flag being officially adopted at the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia, but also the first Flag Day since the terrible events of last year. It's my hope that by Flag Day on June 14th, and through Independence Day on July 4th, our community will be flying as many flags as possible.

Several years ago I organized the "Focus on the Flag Initiative," a joint council of our area veterans, chaired by Mr. Maury Drummond, Executive Director of the USS Kidd, serving our community as a friendly reminder to fly the flag and maintain its proper appearance and respect. Now more than ever I would like to invite everyone to "focus on the flag," if not year-round, then at least during these most patriotic three weeks of summer.

And, in the days to follow, and through the struggles our country will face, I hope we will continue our rededication: Making sure the flag we fly at home and at work fully reflects the respect it holds in our hearts; And keeping the flag's meaning always resonating for new generations of Americans.

What's the flag's meaning? Well, I like the one offered by the poet, Ruth Apperson Rous, and spoken by the flag itself in the poem "I Am the Flag":

"Americans, I am the sacred emblem of your country. I symbolize your birthright, your heritage of liberty purchased with blood and sorrow.... Guard me well, lest your freedom perish from the earth."

-- Congressman Richard Baker

If you would like to purchase a U.S. flag from Congress or specifically one which has been flown over the U.S. Capitol, please use the Order Form provided here.

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