For Whom Does the American Flag Fly?
I’m in no hurry to wave it, but don’t tell me I don’t love my country.
You couldn’t not notice it: a multitude gathered one morning at an A gate of Phoenix’s Sky Harbor Airport, waving little American flags, recording on their cell phones, laying a soundtrack of exuberant cheers. Intrigued or just nosy, I stopped for a look-see, noticed that walls behind the gate desk were adorned with red-white-and-blue bunting, that other walls featured a slogan saluting all those who serve and their families, that the area was also bedecked with flags: an American flag along with those representing the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, even the one for POW/MIA. Yonder, an agent stood at the mouth of the Jetway and called out the deplaning passengers as if announcing the Suns playoff starters: “From the U. S. Air Force staff . . . !” “From the U. S. Navy . . . !” “Electronics technician first class . . . !” First-class petty officer . . . !” “USS Mission Bay rank third class . . . !” Given their hoary hair, their wrinkled mugs, and the fact that some of them caned out of the jet bridge or were pushed in a wheelchair, I surmised that all who exited had earned the honorific of veteran.
It heartened me to see that kind of appreciation for our veterans, so much so that I dawdled past my first urge to leave, so much so that I joined in rounds of applause. Though my enthusiasm was sincere, truth be told, it was also tempered. Matter fact, had somebody tried to hand me a little mini flag, I might’ve refused it and for damn sure would’ve been reluctant to wave it.
Well, because while I believe it commendable and crucial to honor the people who’ve risked or made the ultimate sacrifice for their/our country, my relationship to the flag is at best complicated, at worst ruined.
The year after it declared independence, the Continental Congress passed the first Flag Act, solidifying the Stars and Stripes as the symbol of America, even boasting that the 13 stars on the Betsy Ross version represented “a new constellation.” The second Flag Act, in 1794, provided for 15 stars and 15 stripes (the famous Star-Spangled Banner that inspired Francis Scott Key) to rep the newest states. Of course, the good old U. S. of A. kept right on manifesting its destiny, a mission that also made for some awkward designs.
In 1818, Congress passed the third Flag Act, legislating that it would return to the original 13 stripes to represent the colonies but would add a star for each new state. That third act didn’t specify a design for the stars, and that vagueness led to the production of several versions, that is until 1912, when an executive order by President Taft prescribed not only the order of the stars but the proportions of the flag. Two more executive orders, both by President Eisenhower in 1959, further specified the arrangement of the stars, the later one establishing the design of our current flag.
The vexillologists would have me believe the red of Old Glory symbolizes “hardiness and valor”; its white “purity and innocence”; its blue “vigilance, perseverance, and justice.”
While I accept those qualities as its symbolic ideals, I also believe that the quiddity of the flag is a question: Who belongs in America?
Which is a query evermore inextricable from who owns America.
Given the centuries that we were chattel, the long rule of Jim Crow, and the machinations fueling mass incarceration, I can say with certainty that it ain’t been my peoples. Nonetheless, given Native American pogroms and the Indian Removal and Relocation Acts; given Japanese internment; given the hundred-year-plus crusade for women’s suffrage and the leaked intent for SCOTUS to nullify Roe v. Wade; given the extant rampant schemes of voter suppression and the proliferation of ardent anti-LGBTQ legislation; given the border wall and the inhumanity of brown babies in cages; given the forging of the wealth gap and the cruel persistence of health disparities; given, given, the givens . . . the answer to that essential question is that it might not have been your people neither.
And furthermore, during the fascistic previous administration, the Americans most visible and vocal about their belonging and ownership were the ones hell-bent on using the flag as a cudgel against anybody deemed an other and/or as a scythe to cleave division.
And let me add that, often, they’re the same ones proclaiming themselves true patriots.
In George Orwell’s classic essay “Notes on Nationalism,” he defines patriotism as “devotion to a particular place and a particular way of life, which one believes to be the best in the world but has no wish to force on other people” and defines nationalism as “the habit of identifying oneself with a single nation or other unit, placing it beyond good and evil and recognizing no other duty than that of advancing its interests.” Orwell acknowledges that there’s often little distinction between the two and yet argues that “patriotism is of its nature defensive, both militarily and culturally” but “nationalism, on the other hand, is inseparable from the desire for power.”
In addition to being grounded in America’s complicated history, my resistance to revering the flag—and other symbols of American virtue—is fueled by the belief that Orwell’s distinctions may no longer exist, that the middle ground is now a chasm, that we’ve atrophied into (or maybe we’ve just been exposed as) an era in which nationalism, of a sort indistinguishable from jingoism, has by and large subsumed the patriot.
But I also concede that my perspective has been colored by what’s made the news—the vehemence over Colin Kaepernick’s kneeling; the tiki torchers threatening, “You will not replace us”; the MAGA insurgents, many clad in patriotic colors, rioting through the halls of the Capitol—and that there are also plenty of Americans who believe this country capable of achieving the ideals enshrined in its founding documents and symbols, whose hoisting of a flag outside their crib won’t make the headlines but who are just as important, if not more important, to defining and extending its virtues.
One such acolyte is a buddy of mine—he identifies as a white guy, which seems essential to mention—who says he’ll continue to raise a flag out of respect and duty, that he isn’t about to let the KKK/Proud Boys/Oath Keepers/Three Percenters of the world usurp its meaning. His arguments, I admit, make a helluva lot of sense.
But for me? Could the flag ever belong to me and mines? Would it ever be a fitting emblem of our experience? Can we—those who belong to groups coerced into a hyphenated lower class of Americanness—have any lasting impact on its significance?
My buddy asked if I intended to raise a flag outside my house this Fourth of July, and I said no—said it quick, too—and then the very next instant worried whether that decision would make me less American, less deserving of the mythic American dream of prosperity, somehow less worthy of experiencing the highest potential of this place where I was born and, in all likelihood, will die.
A week or so after I stumbled upon the celebrated arrival of a planeload of veterans, I returned from another trip and stopped by the very same gate. That day, there was no excited crowd, no gate agent broadcasting names, no veterans strolling or limping or wheeling off the jet bridge. However, still—the slogan honoring those who served. Still—the patriotic bunting. Still—the beaucoup flags along the walls. All of them inanimate, inert, waiting for someone to come along and imbue them with consequence.
Mitchell S Jackson is a contributing writer for Esquire. He is the winner of a Pulitzer Prize and a National Magazine Award as well as the acclaimed author of the memoir Survival Math , and the award-winning novel The Residue Years . He is the John O. Whiteman Dean's Distinguished Professor of English at Arizona State University.
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Essay Sample on Why I Honor The American Flag
The American flag is a representation of liberty, justice, and loyalty. It represents the best aspects of our country and its people. The flag serves as a symbol of what makes us special, including our ability to overcome hardship, our dedication to justice and fairness, and our dedication to upholding the rights of all people. Respecting the flag is a way to honor those who have sacrificed their lives for our nation. In this essay, written with the help of the professional custom essay writing service Edusson, I’ll share why I honor the American flag.
What the American Flag Essay Means to Me
The American flag represents our shared history as a nation. It is a symbol of the struggles and triumphs of our founding fathers as they fought for independence from England. The thirteen stripes represent the original thirteen colonies, and the stars on the blue field represent the states that make up our nation. Each time I see the flag, it serves as a reminder of the hard work, dedication, and sacrifice that have gone into building this country.
According to history, the flag of the USA has been an essential symbol since its adoption by Congress on June 14, 1777. The flag represented America’s break from Britain’s King George III and his oppressive rule over our country. After winning its independence from Britain in 1783 with help from France, America adopted its first official national flag: the Grand Union Flag (a British Union Flag with 13 stripes). This design was never officially adopted as an official national ensign because it was too similar to another flag used by privateers at sea during the American Revolution known as “The Pirate Jack” (a red cross on a white field).
On June 14th, 1777 Congress passed an act establishing an official United States Flag consisting of 13 alternating red and white stripes representing the 13 original colonies; and a blue canton bearing 13 white stars representing a new constellation.
The Symbolism Behind the Flag
To me, the American flag isn’t just a piece of cloth — it’s a symbol that represents all that is good about our country. It stands for freedom from tyranny, justice for all people regardless of race or creed, and a commitment to defend those who cannot defend themselves. When I look at the flag, I am reminded of how far we have come as a nation — from fighting for independence from Great Britain to become a beacon of hope for people around the world.
The Colors and Symbols of the Flag
The colors and symbols on the American flag represent our nation’s history, values, and principles. Red stands for valor and bravery, white represents purity and innocence, while blue signifies perseverance and justice. The 50 stars on the blue field are a reminder that we are united as one nation with 50 states working in harmony towards a common goal — liberty for all.
Respect for Our Veterans
One way that I honor the American flag is by respecting those who have served in our military. Our veterans put their lives on the line so that we can continue to live in freedom and security. We owe them an immense debt of gratitude that can never be repaid; however, we can show our appreciation by displaying flags on Veteran’s Day (and other holidays) or by volunteering with veteran-focused organizations.
Giving Back to Our Country
Another way that I honor the American flag is by giving back to my community and country whenever possible. This could take many forms— from volunteering with local charities or political campaigns to donating money or goods to those in need. No matter how you choose to give back, it’s important to remember that every act helps make America better than it was before you got involved.
Honoring the Flag
It can be easy to take these symbols for granted, but honoring them should be our priority as citizens of this great nation. We should always respect our flag by saluting it when it passes by during parades or ceremonies; we should never let it touch the ground; we should also ensure that we display it properly at home or work with care. We must remember to treat our national symbol with dignity so that future generations can continue to appreciate its importance in our culture.
Conclusion
The American Flag has been an integral part of America since its inception more than 200 years ago. It stands for everything we stand for as Americans — freedom from oppression, justice for all people regardless of race or creed, and dedication to protecting those who cannot protect themselves. As an individual citizen and member of this great nation, honoring this symbol is one way I can show my appreciation for what makes America unique and special — something worth celebrating each day!
Tips on Writing Why I Honor the American Flag Essay
It is true that a personal statement essay can be the most important piece of writing you submit to a university. The statement is what can make or break your application, so it’s important to make sure you get it right. Writing this American flag essay, first I’ve looked through personal statement essay examples . Writing an essay on Why you honor the American flag can be a personal and emotional experience, and it can be challenging to put those feelings into words. Here are some tips to help you write an effective essay
Brainstorm
Start by jotting down your thoughts and feelings about the American flag. What does it represent to you? What memories or experiences do you associate with it? These brainstorming ideas can be useful when you start to write your essay.
Use strong language
Use strong and persuasive language to express your ideas. Avoid generalities or clichés, and instead use language that is specific, vivid, and engaging.
Show your patriotism
Finally, use your essay as an opportunity to show your patriotism and love for your country. Your essay can serve as a testament to your pride in being an American and your commitment to the values that the American flag represents.
In this table, we will explore the reasons why people honor the American flag and what it means to them.
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Essays: What the U.S. flag means to me
In advance of the Fourth of July, we asked some local and state officials and readers overall this question: “What does the American flag mean to me?”
Sheila Simon , lieutenant governor
Whether we look at our nation’s flag during the Pledge of Allegiance, the national anthem, or to check on the direction of the wind, most of us feel a sense of pride. Pride in being a land of democracy, opportunity and freedom.
But I also look at our flag through the eyes of a seamstress — not Betsy Ross, but me, a mom who has made dresses, playclothes and Halloween outfits for her daughters for two decades.
As a seamstress I see how our flag is put together, and it’s fairly complex. Some nations’ flags are big blocks of color, or even one color with an image printed on it. No sewing beyond the hems around the edges.
Our flag is pieced. That means each stripe attached to the next and finished off so that there are no loose threads. The blue field is pieced and finished in that same way, and then stars are embroidered on, a process that requires some time when done by hand.
Our country is pieced together in a similar way. States, people and cultures that are not identical are bound together. In southern Illinois, we often talk differently than our northern Illinois neighbors, and Illinoisans talk differently than most folks in the 13 original colonies. But we are all a part of the same country.
Like our flag, our country requires finishing work; in fact, our finishing work as a country is a continual process. It takes all of us participating in the civic life of our country to keep this cloth together.
The next time you look at the flag, take a look at those different fabrics, and all the seams that bind them together. Take pride in how we can all find our own way to keep this fabric of our country strong.
Jesse White , secretary of state
The American flag means to me a tapestry of sacrifice, opportunity, volunteerism, liberty, privilege, responsibility and appreciation.
As a former paratrooper in the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division and as a member of the Illinois National Guard and Reserve, I admire and cherish the sacrifice, bravery and heroism that our men and women in the armed forces display each and every day whether at home or in hostile environments. The American flag represents the selfless sacrifice of these true heroes, whether it is hoisted up in a field of battle or unfurled above a baseball field.
As a Chicago public school teacher and administrator for 33 years, I spent a portion of each morning reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, hand over heart, before the American flag.
On many occasions, I would think of my students, many of whom came from economically disadvantaged neighborhoods and, while looking at the American flag, I would think: Any of these students, so long as they properly apply themselves, can accomplish great things.
Indeed, many of my former students, as well as former members of my Jesse White Tumbling Team, have gone on to become American success stories. They have become lawyers, engineers, teachers, athletes, firefighters, police officers — the list goes on and on.
The American flag means to me volunteerism. Americans are blessed with a kind and giving sprit. When we become successful, we find ways to give it back to those less fortunate.
The American flag means to me liberty, that we are the privileged few that live in a nation that gives each and every one of us the opportunity to strive for greatness in whatever field or endeavor we wish to pursue.
The American flag means to me the responsibility we bear to ensure that the United States continues to prosper and continues to give hope to those who wish for a better way of life. From all regions of this great nation, we often honor the American flag with a salute and a rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” This tradition underscores the powerful and emotional importance of the American flag to us as a nation, undivided.
Lastly, the American flag means to me a profound appreciation to those departed who helped shape the United States of America — the greatest country in the world — so that it would be, as President Abraham Lincoln famously resolved at Gettysburg, “... a government of the people, by the people, and for the people.”
Dan Rutherford , state treasurer
“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
At the start of each school day, my class would stand together, raise our right hands to our hearts and recite the words to the Pledge of Allegiance. As I spoke those words, I remember gazing at the American flag and feeling a sense of pride and responsibility.
For me, those were not just simple words, they were a promise of commitment to this country to be a loyal citizen to the land that has become home to so many people and fulfilled countless dreams.
The American flag has a unique meaning to each and every person. Not only in the U.S., but all around the world, the American flag symbolizes freedom, pride, honor and responsibility. The red, white and blue represent unity and equality and the opportunity to make dreams reality.
The American flag symbolizes commitment — a commitment to be of service to the land that has given us one of life’s most precious gifts, freedom. That freedom gives me the chance to be of service to my family and friends, and to the many cities and towns in Illinois as I serve as the state treasurer.
We as citizens contribute, shape, and define our diverse communities, and thus our nation. Many citizens give great sacrifice to this country, whether it be the elected leaders guiding the nation and protecting the rights of citizens or the classroom teachers educating our next generation, every individual is responsible for contributing something to the community they belong to.
The flag also reminds me of our armed forces, risking their lives and making daily sacrifices to secure our freedoms and ensure the safety of others. I am humbled by their service to this great nation.
These men and women know firsthand that freedom isn’t free and they are prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice to protect our great nation. Our freedom is only realized with their sacrifice, service and commitment.
As Americans celebrate the Fourth of July, it is important that we take time to reflect on the symbolic stars and stripes and realize that all around the world, the American flag has become a symbol of hope.
As Illinois treasurer, I know in my heart that I have the great responsibility to do my part in carrying on the legacy of patriotism, respect, and progress that our Founding Fathers left behind. I am committed to doing my best for this great nation and the people of Illinois.
I love the United States of America, and I am filled with pride each time I see our American flag.
Melissa Asher
What does the flag mean to me? Boy, does that statement bring back a memory.
I am a single mother of three children. When my eldest son was 17, he said to me. “Mom, I want to join the military.” I said “No, son, it’s a time of war. There are so many things that you can do. You cannot join the Army or the Marines.”
I was afraid, you see, that if I sent my son, who meant so much to me, that he wouldn’t come home. So many lives lost, so many broken hearts and sadness came with such things. I just didn’t want it to be him, or me.
For a year we argued, “You can do this, you can do that. There are so many other things that you can be.” There was no peace, there were no happy thoughts. We just disagreed.
Then one night, my son held a paper in his hands. an essay he had written for school. He said, “I have to turn this in tomorrow. I would like you to read it, and then tell me what you think.”
It was titled, “How does the flag influence the teen of today?” (Or something close to that.) So I read this essay.
It talked about how young Americans don’t salute the flag as it goes by, how they don’t respect the men that have died. He talked about the colors, the stripes and the stars, and what they meant. He talked about the men that fought our wars so valiantly. He said so many things and with each word I read, a power – a knowledge — came over me.
My son did not want to go into the military for war mongering. He didn’t want to go and fight for something he knew not. You see, he wanted to join because it was his right. He wanted to join to protect his right of freedom, his right of speech, the knowledge that nowhere else has freedoms such as we.
He thought it was wrong to force people to live as others wanted them to. He wanted to make the world see that the freedoms we have can be shared. He wants a world democracy, where every person on earth should have the freedom to choose what they want to do, where they want to be, how they want to live.
He wanted to speak loud and clear that he wanted to oppress the tyranny, the evilness of the lands, that fought to keep people enslaved in their worlds without rights, without freedoms, that we as Americans take advantage of every day.
I stopped and thought about the men in my family, as far back as I could go, who fought for their military. From Germany, to Ireland, from England to America. They fought for the right to have a better life.
They came here for a better life. And when I look at the flag. I do not just see red, white and blue. I see the blood of my forefathers, I see the white flag of hope, I see the love and strength that gave them voice. I see the courage they had to fight and yet love deeply.
I see the farmers, the bankers, the store owners, the young, the old. I see America. The land of the free, the home of the brave. I see my son, wearing his army greens. His army blues, saluting as the glorious flag of our nation goes by. I see the pride in his eyes, and the courage and bravery that makes him stand tall.
I am not afraid anymore. If the time ever comes, I know in my heart that my son will always come home. I know that I will never lose him. For he fights for this land, this country he loves. And as long as we remember him, he will always be a soldier, my son.
Melissa Beckler , teacher
As a young child, I was schooled in flag etiquette. I was taught how to hang the flag correctly, fold and store it correctly, and never, ever let it touch the ground.
If the flag was out at night, it must be lighted. If the flag was damaged beyond repair, it must be burned. Not burned with anger and disdain as some have done; but burned in a dignified manner.
On the Fourth of July, Veterans Day, and Memorial Day, one of my brothers or I had to get up early and go with our dad to the little village cemetery. He held the map of veterans’ graves, while I carried the little flags and placed them by the headstones.
Dad knew many of the veterans and shared stories. He shared a last name with some vets; those stories were more difficult for him to tell. Before we left, we stopped to look at the tiny flags blowing in the breeze. It was both beautiful and heartrending.
The flag that hung on our porch had just 48 stars. It had no stains or tears and it was cherished by my father. He also had a flag on his casket because he was a veteran of World War II. I held that flag for days and nights after his death.
That beautiful flag that could bring tears to my dad’s eyes holds a great deal of meaning to me. We are blessed to live in this country; however, it seems to me that many, many people are forgetting the sacrifice of those who fought in order for that flag to fly in the breeze.
For instance, Goshen College in Indiana has decided not to play the national anthem at school events. “The Star-Spangled Banner” is considered too violent. I wonder if they’d prefer to fly the Union Jack? Because without the Revolutionary War, the Stars and Stripes wouldn’t exist.
In addition, many neighborhood associations across the country have banned the flying of the American flag. Our flag stands for liberty, but some citizens don’t have the freedom to fly that flag?
There have been lawsuits brought against people who just want to express their love and respect for this country. That, to me, is incredulous.
I feel like the lesson my dad wanted me to learn from my “flag tutelage” is to always be grateful for the gift of liberty for which so many fought. I didn’t do anything to earn that gift; it was given to me by men and women who knew its worth.
Those stars and stripes have covered many caskets of men and women who felt compelled to ensure our rights and freedoms. When we love and respect that flag, we are respecting those who died for our liberty. May it ever wave in our yards, schools, government buildings and hearts.
Mike Jennings , police officer
The American flag has many meanings to many people. There is of course the symbolic meaning in the colors and what virtues they represent and the honor and care in which the flag should be displayed and cared for.
Unfortunately, all too often those standards are not met and we begin to see abuses and misuse of the flag. To some, any use of the flag they see fit is fine. I guess what I am trying to say is the flag and its meaning is subject to each person’s perspective and I guess that is ideally what it should be.
I would hope that you would consider my perspective as a police officer and a veteran. The flag belongs to and represents the people and the principles of this great country.
It is often used by our government to represent its agenda and actions throughout the world, and in recent years it has been used to rally support by wrapping it around the hidden agendas of special interests and influences that control our elected officials and their failed policies.
Fortunately, there are those who still believe in the principles of that flag and are willing to sacrifice all for those principles. They are called soldiers, sailors and airmen of our military and they are truly the best we have amongst us, the most noble profession. They rally to the call for service and place themselves in harm’s way for you and me so that we can be safe to enjoy the freedom they provide.
In the future, when someone decides to abuse or destroy a flag in protest, stop and consider that the flag is yours and it has been paid for by your brothers and sisters in arms. And ask yourself what that flag means to the family of the fallen soldier as they return home wrapped in the very flag they defend.
Take the time to seek out the images of our military cemeteries on Memorial Day and the endless rows of waving flags placed there by their fellow soldiers in honor and remembrance of the price they paid. But most of all, recognize that the flag belongs to us and not our government, and that it is a receipt for the price we have paid for the freedoms we enjoy and have provided to others all around this world.
It is our eternal duty to ensure that the flag is not abused or misused. We owe that to those who have sacrificed life, limb and sanity in paying for its cost. So consider those ideas when you feel the flag is a target of your anger.
J. Michael Houston , mayor of Springfield
My favorite thought of an American flag blowing in the breeze is standing atop the Abraham Lincoln Tomb as the Abraham Lincoln Council of the Boy Scouts of America holds its annual pilgrimage.
While the crowds are smaller today, in years past there would be more than 10,000 Boy Scouts standing in front of the tomb, with each troop that was represented holding an American flag. The flag bearers were grouped together in front of the Boy Scouts, which made a magnificent site as hundreds of American flags were blowing in the breeze.
I would stand there in awe as I would think of all the people who have made the ultimate sacrifice since our country’s founding that allows us to enjoy the freedoms we have today. We owe so much to so many for the sacrifices that have been made. It makes me proud to be an American.
Our flag represents our principles, ideas and values as well as all the good things about our country. It reminds me of how blessed I am to have been born an American. That is what the flag represents to me.
The American flag stands for liberty and pride in our country, a country that gives me the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. A country that has allowed me to do anything I was willing to prepare myself to do and was willing to work to accomplish. It means that I am free to make my own choices.
Americans frequently forget how lucky we really are, the opportunities that we have, and the freedoms that we take for granted. The American flag is a reminder of all the privileges that we enjoy on a daily basis.
Our flag stands tall above buildings and spires and reminds us that more than 200 years ago, our forefathers established a nation based upon the freedom to choose our own destiny.
The flag is that symbol, one that allows us to better appreciate all of our freedoms and all of our opportunities that have allowed this country to remain strong.
Neil Williamson , Sangamon County sheriff
My early memory of the flag is when I was around 12 years old and I would intently watch my father proudly display our flag on a country dirt road in Williamsville.
My brothers and I would follow his footsteps and ask in unison if we could help. We loved watching the flag whip in the gusting wind over the fields and giggled when we heard the “pop” the fabric made when it flapped onto itself.
Dad served in World War II and said the flag represented patriotism. That was a big word to a little boy. He told us “patriotism” meant devotion to country. He broke it down to our level by saying it meant the duty to take care of your family and protect your neighbors.
Mom pointed out the flag many times at the front of the church and told us it represented even more than patriotism; it meant we were free — free to express ourselves through speech and the freedom of religious worship.
Recently when I went back to the small country church in Williamsville to worship, I saw the flag by the podium and the yellow ribbons tied to the prayer railing for the young men and women serving in the armed forces to protect our freedoms. I thought of momma and her gentle teachings about life and smiled.
Throughout my life, I’ve tried to walk a path in law enforcement to protect and serve. I credit the career decisions I’ve made in large part to the words of my parents and their actions and deeds.
In school we learned to stand tall and place our hand over our heart to say the Pledge of Allegiance, and we learned about our country’s history. We learned that our freedom did not come without a price, and for many that price was their lives.
With this being an election year, there will be a lot of talk and speeches about what liberty, freedom and sacrifice mean to people. Through all the buzz and promises made during the election cycle, we will need to exercise our right to vote and vote for the best person to defend our freedom and liberty.
God bless America!
Susan Koch , UIS chancellor
What does the flag mean to me? Any other year but this year I might have answered this question by discussing, as a university’s chancellor probably should, that important purpose of a university education — the preparation of citizens in a country that needs citizenship.
But this year when I think about what the flag means to me all I can think about is a woman I know who, like me, is a mother of four.
We were once neighbors on 19th Street near the university in Cedar Falls, Iowa. My youngest daughter, Rachel, was the Morris family baby sitter for several years. She often brought the children, Molly, Taylor, Riley and toddler Clare, to play at our house.
I always thought the kids looked like little ducklings following along in single file behind her and I was grateful to their mother, Juli, for the positive role model she provided for my rambunctious daughter.
After the kids outgrew the need for baby-sitting, we saw the Morris kids and their parents less often; but we stayed in touch, crossing paths at community events and basketball games and following news of our kids’ high school exploits in the paper.
I still smile when I think of Juli’s much-anticipated holiday letters — they arrived in a bulging envelope each December — pages of photos and stories catching us up with great enthusiasm on the latest adventures of each member of the family.
Juli is too busy now to know this, but we are in touch once again and I am thinking about her every day. She is at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and Taylor’s girlfriend, Danielle, is sharing with her the writing of daily updates about Taylor on his Caring Bridge web page.
On May 3, Taylor, a 23-year-old Navy EOD — explosives ordinance demolition technician — stepped on a bomb in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, while on patrol. He lost his right leg at the knee, his left leg at mid-thigh, his right arm at the wrist and his left arm at the elbow.
Taylor is one of five members of the American military thus far who have survived the loss of four limbs in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Now like many others I look forward anxiously to a post every day with news from Juli or Danielle about Taylor. Surrounded by his family, his Navy friends and a team of dedicated medical specialists, he is making amazing progress. I am in awe at his courage and determination.
A few weeks ago on Mother’s Day, Juli posted this message: “Today is Mother’s Day and I am blessed. I am blessed because my children are safe.”
So on this Fourth of July when I think about what the flag means to me, I’ll think about my former neighbor, Taylor’s mom. I’ll be grateful for the service of men and women like Taylor and for the sacrifices of their families.
I’ll send lots of positive energy Taylor’s way as Juli has requested and I’ll, too, be grateful that Juli’s son is safe.
You can read more about Taylor Morris at CaringBridge.org/visit/TaylorMorris .
Judy Baar Topinka, Illinois comptroller
I was taught that the American flag stands for everything great about America. I learned at an early age that the flag stands for the ideals of our nation — things like independence, justice, equality, and most of all, individual freedom.
But more important than the things I’ve learned in a classroom or read in a book is what I have witnessed and experienced over time. For me, the flag is personal.
When I look at the flag I think about the wonderful opportunity that this country provided to all four of my grandparents. They arrived from Eastern Europe and worked to start a small business, own a home and raise a family. Some may mock the “American Dream” as some cliché — but I saw it in action and am forever grateful.
I think about the generations of Americans who have served in our military under the auspices of that flag. I am in awe of their courage and selflessness, and mindful of what it has meant for our nation. My appreciation of that work is also personal as my son, Joseph, serves today under that flag in the U.S. Army — and I couldn’t be prouder.
Finally, I think about how the flag, and what it represents, must never be taken for granted. It is all too easy to pass dozens of flags — on buildings, in hallways, on uniforms — in a given day without giving it a second thought. I make it a point to not let that happen, and proudly hang the flag in front of my home, in my office and on my car to serve as a reminder.
Because ultimately, the flag provides a way for each and every one of us — no matter who we are or what we do — to honor our nation and show appreciation for our nation. It is important to take advantage of that opportunity at every turn, and never forget what it means to be an American.
Stan Zielinski
Old Glory, our beloved American flag … I pledge my allegiance to the flag; I honor it and respect what the flag stands for, and I believe in what it means to me: The American flag represents the true meaning of freedom for all Americans.
The earliest memories of the flag in my young life most likely occurred when I was with my mother who took me shopping with her. As we walked through our neighborhood with me scampering alongside, we’d walk past the local grade school on our way to shop at the bakery, grocery store or market.
Stationed atop a tall pole in the yard of the school was the American flag fluttering in the breeze, and on top was a gold eagle shining in the morning sun. Most likely my natural curiosity about the colorful flag encouraged me to ask my mother what it was, but I’m unable to clearly remember her explanation.
The flag became a part of my life when I entered kindergarten and I learned to say the Pledge of Allegiance with my right hand placed over my heart, along with our daily prayers. Of course I didn’t understand the meaning behind the words I spoke, but I knew they were important because the nun and we students said them every morning before the start of class.
It wasn’t until a couple of years later when I became a Cub Scout (with a flag patch on my sleeve) that I learned the history of the American flag. As a Scout, I was taught to always show respect to the flag by saluting it in the proper Scout fashion with my arm and hand straight with two fingers touching my cap.
As I became a teenager and moved up through high school and the Scouts, I followed the activities of the American military during foreign wars and conflicts and how the troops always carried the flag with them.
Like most kids my age I was awestruck by our military and the stories we heard and the war movies we saw at the local theater that featured actors including our movie hero, John Wayne or Audie Murphy (Medal of Honor, World War II) or some other American hero with the American flag waving in background.
After high school, I entered the Army National Guard, where I learned the proper military protocol and the rituals of facing and saluting in honor of our flag; during the morning raising of the flag to the evening retreat when it was lowered or when I walked past the flag.
Showing respect by saluting the flag helped instill strong, emotional feelings that I still carry to this day. I recall those memories every time I see the flag raised above. I stand at attention and proudly salute the flag for what it represents to me and all Americans: my freedom and privilege to live in America to honor and always pledge my allegiance to our venerated American flag.
Rick Richards
The flag of the United States of America is so intrinsically woven in the fabric of our democracy; one can not speak of country without visualizing our flag.
As a young boy, I looked up at the face of my father and I saw, glittering in the afternoon sun, a tear in his eye while he held his right hand over his heart during the playing of our national anthem. Back then I did not know why he expressed such deep emotion over our flag flying in the breeze, but all I need to know was that my dad respected it.
Today, as a proud grandfather I know beyond a doubt what my father was thinking as he stared at our flag, the symbol of the greatest nation on earth.
At some past moment in time my dad, Jim, a combat veteran of World War II and I, a disabled combat wounded Vietnam veteran, became as one in our respect and honor of our flag; for we both experienced the sacrifices made by our forefathers to protect our flag so it will always be the symbol of America’s unity and strength as well as a beacon of hope for all the world to see.
As I reflect on my life and my father’s experiences, I can still recall the pain from my wounds and the heartache in knowing that so many millions throughout the history of our country shed their blood and gave their lives on battlefields around the world to protect our flag and country and ensure freedom to our families.
Our flag as always been revered; during the Civil War nearly one third of the Congressional Medals of Honor earned were awarded to Army and Naval personnel for acts to protect the American flag or for anchoring it in enemy soil during battle.
Whenever I see the flying unfurled colors of our flag, my pride in having served for the principles of a free nation is strengthened, and my thoughts and memories of what our flag represents brings a lump in my throat and a tear in my eye.
I have also shed tears for the selfish acts of those who desecrate our flag simply to bolster their agenda, but I continue to pray for them and I collect resolve in knowing that our sacrifices were for them to also have the freedom symbolic in our flag. My heart goes out to and I salute those who today protect our flag and country.
My flag: “….long may it wave, over the land of the Free and the Home of the Brave.”
Thomas R. Jones
I am now a 60-year-old black man in America who appreciates honoring the flag for the life and hope it has given me. I fully understand the difference between being an American in America and abroad.
The American flag for me is a history that gives reason for the future. It means, for my children, a life of possibilities. It keeps in our memory the people who gave their all fighting under its banner. When I am dead, it will cover my casket and be given to my family as a memorable treasure.
In grammar school, it was the reason I had to say the Pledge of Allegiance in class. I learned through geography classes there were many countries in the world. I knew I lived in America, because of the flag.
In high school, I learned the history of the flag, known as the Star-Spangled Banner, Old Glory and Stars and Stripes. The flag consists of 13 horizontal stripes, seven red alternating with six white.
The stripes represent the original 13 colonies, the stars represent the 50 states of the Union. The colors of the flag are symbolic as well: Red symbolizes hardiness and valor, white symbolizes purity and innocence and blue represents vigilance, perseverance and justice.
The flag of the United States is one of the world’s most widely recognized symbols and our national anthem, one of the few national anthems in the world devoted to a flag
As I grew older, I became more aware of the flag. It was everywhere — school assemblies, sporting events, whenever there was a show of authority. Holidays like Memorial Day, Veterans Day, Presidents’ Day, Flag Day, and on Independence Day the America flag was displayed on mail boxes, hung on houses, stuck on cars, attached to thin sticks in yards.
On Memorial Day, small flags are placed by war memorials and next to the graves of U.S. war veterans and fly at half staff until noon, in remembrance of those who lost their lives fighting in U.S. wars. Our country’s military history is a direct link to the American flag beginning with the struggle for independence by the colonies. The flag represents more than a nation or government policies, it also is an ideal.
The flag became personally even more important to me when I joined the Navy. In the military the American flag is the symbol of their existence, simple cloth that people would fight for and many died for.
I took the oath to serve my country under it. Went to war and put my life on the line serving it. I become part of the tradition that keeps it alive.
In the military, the flag lets others know you represent the America people and you are an American. It meant home and a place of safety. It meant, you’re not alone.
Mike Walton
I have always been patriotic from my days as a youngster when I rode around on my bike with an American flag flying from the handle bars, to today where I fly Old Glory 24 hours a day, seven days a week, proudly in our front yard.
I had always flown a flag from my home, but several years ago my son Nicholas purchased and had a 25-foot flag pole placed in our yard for me. What a great present that was.
My father was a World War II veteran, and he and my mother were both very patriotic and active in the American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary, so I suppose I grew up knowing what the flag stood for, how many brave men and women died and sacrificed for it and how each and every American should respect it.
I served in the military and spent a year in Vietnam and came home to a lot of Americans who were unfortunately burning the flag for whatever reason, which I suppose is their right as an American, just don’t do it around me!
To this day when I watch our Old Glory wave in the wind, or I stand and pay my respect when a flag goes by in a parade, or when I stand and say the Pledge of Allegiance, I still feel a great sense of pride at being an American, an American Legionnaire and an American veteran.
So, whenever you see the symbol of our country flying proudly, remember those who gave so much so all of us could be free and live in the greatest country in the world, and remember to treat that flag with the great respect it deserves.
Mark Denzler
Several months ago, on a cold but sunny day, I stood at the new gravesite of my Uncle Tom Heidenreich as an honor guard played taps and a young soldier on bended knee, while presenting a folded American flag to my aunt, voiced the immortal words designed to assuage grief and bring comfort to families:
“On behalf of the President of the United States and the Chief of Naval Operations, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one’s service to this country and a grateful nation.”
But what does the American flag mean? What does it stand for? When the Continental Congress authorized creation of a seal for the United States in 1776, its mission was to “reflect the beliefs, values, and sovereignty of the new nation.”
The 50 stars, symbolizing the states, represent the heavens and the divine goal to which man has aspired from time immemorial; the stripes, symbolic of the rays of light emanating from the sun represent the 13 original colonies, and the colors red (hardiness and valor), white (purity and innocence), and blue (vigilance, perseverance, and justice) comprise Old Glory today.
The beauty of the iconic Old Glory is that while it represents freedom and American democratic ideals, the real meaning is in the eye of the beholder.
For millions of new immigrants who arrived at Ellis Island, the American flag represented a beacon of hope for a new life, a scenario that continues to play out every day as people chase their hopes and dreams. When lowered to half-mast, the American flag announces that we have lost a hero who served our country, protecting the very freedom epitomized in the colors of our nation. Young school children address the flag every day when they say the Pledge of Allegiance to the greatest country on earth.
The American flag, in my mind, is a constant reminder of the sacrifices that hundreds of thousands of Americans have made to protect our democracy and freedoms.
I have the wonderful opportunity to work every day in the state Capitol, and briefly toiled as a young staffer in the halls of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., and I love the fact that people have the right to express their views and opinions without fearing repercussions that may include jail or even death in other areas of the world.
Our flag represents the charity, idealism, ingenuity, heritage, and freedom of a country and its people that continue to serve as an inspiration for millions of people around the world.
Ramona Bersch
The flag is a proud and beloved symbol of all that America stands for, which was originally handed down to all Americans from the colonial period, to be honored and respected for all American generations to come from that time forward.
It would fly wherever America would be represented over land and sea during war and peace, with dignity, for all it would endure when and wherever it would appear.
It instills an enduring feeling of liberty and justice whenever displayed, or when the words are spoken: “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, with liberty and justice for all.”
Libby Larkin-Booker
Every time I see the flag I get chills knowing what our ancestors went through beginning these United States, times of war, the depression, etc.
I also get a “blast” from the past. My grade school principal, Don Bone in Bethany was the most patriotic individual I have ever known. He taught us not only to respect the flag, but to respect those who fought for us under that flag and each other. We even had yearly assemblies in the boiler room to properly dispose of the American flag.
When I see a flag flying that is torn and tattered, it makes me sad thinking that possibly those individuals or businesses just don’t care. If you have a torn and/or tattered flag, please take it to your American Legion and they will see to it that it is disposed of in a proper manner.
Home / Essay Samples / Government / American Flag / What the American Flag Means to Me: A Personal Reflection
What the American Flag Means to Me: A Personal Reflection
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