[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 75 (Thursday, June 15, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1023]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                                FLAG DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. RON PACKARD

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 15, 2000

  Mr. PACKARD. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
recognize our nation's flag. June 14th marks Flag Day, and the 223rd 
birthday of ``Old Glory.'' The flag symbolizes our national unity, our 
national endeavors, and our national aspiration. There is no better 
symbol of our country's values and traditions than the Flag of the 
United States of America. Our flag's proud Stars and Stripes have long 
inspired our people, and its beautiful red, white, and blue design is 
known around the world as a beacon of liberty and justice.
  Flag Day--the anniversary of the Flag Resolution of 1777--was 
officially established by the Proclamation of President Woodrow Wilson 
on May 30th, 1916. While Flag Day was celebrated in various communities 
for years after Wilson's proclamation, it was not until August 3rd, 
1949, that President Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 
14th of each year as National Flag Day.
  The stars and stripes on the flag 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 have died to ensure it will continue to stand for a 
symbol of freedom. They rush to the front of the battle line to keep it 
waving strongly above the heads of their fellow soldiers. Our brave 
Armed Forces members carry ``Old Glory'' with them as they fulfill 
their mission to defend the blessings of democracy and peace across the 
globe; our banner flies from public buildings as a sign of our national 
community; and its folds drape the tombs of our distinguished dead. The 
Flag is a badge of honor to all--a sign of our citizens' common 
purpose.
  The next time we rise to pledge our allegiance to our flag, let us 
also be reminded of our duty as citizens to keep this nation one, where 
liberty and justice can be enjoyed by all.

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