[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 75 (Thursday, June 11, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1114]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                             FLAG DAY 1998

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. RON PACKARD

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 11, 1998

  Mr. PACKARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend birthday wishes to 
our nation's flag. June 14th marks flag day, and the 221st birthday of 
``Old Glory.'' My colleagues may find it interesting to note that Flag 
Day was first celebrated in 1877, on the centennial of the U.S. flag's 
existence. In 1949, President Harry Truman signed legislation making 
Flag Day a day of national observance.
  In 1777, the Continental Congress adopted the Stars and Stripes 
pattern for the national flag. These stars and stripes represent more 
than just the original colonies and the number of states in this 
nation, they represent freedom and independence for Americans. In times 
of war, young soldiers die to ensure it will continue to stand for a 
symbol of freedom. They will rush to the front of the battle line to 
keep it waving strongly above the heads of their fellow soldiers.
  Mr. Speaker, the next time we rise to pledge our allegiance to our 
flag, let us also be reminded of our responsibility as elected 
officials to defend the constitution, and to keep this nation one, 
where liberty and justice can be enjoyed by all.

                          ____________________