[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 86 (Wednesday, June 10, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1362]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         FLAG DAY JUNE 14, 2009

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                         HON. NICK J. RAHALL II

                            of west virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 10, 2009

  Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, the 14th of June is an important day for 
all Americans, the day we celebrate the American Flag. The American 
Flag is a proud and prominent symbol of our great Nation and 
celebrating this important icon shows respect for the millions of 
Americans who consider the flag a representation of our nation's most 
fundamental traditions and beliefs.
  As a member of Congress, I feel great pride when I see our striking 
stars and stripes flying over the majestic United States Capitol. 
Whether the Flag is flying among the mountains of southern West 
Virginia or above our nation's capitol, it is a sign of our nation's 
commitment to working together across our vast and diverse land to 
create one great nation. Our flag flies in every state and around the 
World at our embassies in foreign lands.
  Today, the flag consists of thirteen horizontal stripes, seven red, 
alternating with six white, reminding us always of our Nation's humble 
beginnings as just thirteen colonies. The stars illustrate our one 
country with 50 independent and unique states each with a separate 
state government. Together, the stars and stripes reflect our efforts 
to create a unified nation with united principles joined together under 
one Flag for over 200 years.
  In 1947, President Harry S. Truman signed legislation requesting 
National Flag Day become an annual event, and since that day we have 
been celebrating our stately Flag every year.
  On Capitol Hill, the United States Flag is celebrated everyday. Flags 
are flown over the Capitol each day of the year in honor of birthdays, 
retirements, and, as well as in the memory of loved ones lost. These 
flags are then shipped directly from congressional offices with an 
official certificate from the Architect of the Capitol, declaring the 
date and occasion for which the flag was flown.
  I ask that you join me in supporting House Resolution 420, thereby 
celebrating this American symbol, honoring our country, our men and 
women who have served and are currently serving in the United States 
Armed Forces, our veterans who bravely fought beneath flag, and all 
citizens who proudly fly the American Flag to show their support for 
our great country, and the ideals this great Flag represents.

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