We all remember that Father’s Day is coming up this weekend, along with Withee Days, and a number of other area celebrations. But before all that comes Flag Day on Friday, June 14. That is the day the Second Continental Congress officially adopted the stars and stripes as our flag in 1777. It is a national holiday, although not a federal holiday.

Here are some items to note about our flag. That original flag representing 13 states has changed 27 times since then. The final star was added in 1960 when Hawaii became a state. New stars are only added to the flag on July 4. The first time the flag was flown after being adopted was on August 3, 1777 in Rome, New York. Tradition states that the flag was designed by Francis Hopkinson, who was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Tradition also states that Betsy Ross sewed the first flag. There are six American flags on the moon, with five of them still standing. After a tragedy or death, the flag is flown at half staff for 30 days. If any other flags are on the staff when the American flag is lowered to half staff, they are removed. Old flags are retired; they are either burned or buried. The Flag Code bans the use of the flag as clothing.

The colors have meaning with the red standing for hardiness and valor, white for purity and innocence, and blue for vigilance, perseverance, and justice. The flag should never touch the ground. 95% of U.S. flags are actually made in the U.S.A. The U.S. flag always flies at the top of a staff above any other flag.

The military folds the flag with 13 folds, each with its own meaning. The first fold is a symbol of life. The second fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life. The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veteran departing our ranks and defending their country. The fourth fold represents our weaker nature and reminds us that we are citizens trusting and searching for guidance in war and peace. The fifth fold is a tribute to our country. The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the flag. The seventh fold is a tribute to our armed forces to protect our country. The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death and to honor mothers. The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood and their character that has helped make this country great. The 10th fold is a tribute to fathers who have given their children in sacrifice to our country. The 11th fold represents the lower portion of the seal. The 12th fold represents the emblem of eternity. The 13th and last fold, when the flag is completely folded with only the stars exposed, reminds us of our national motto, “In God We Trust.”

Who would think that so much could be packed into something that comes in all sizes from very small to very large? When you see the flag flying this Flag Day, think about what it represents. It is more than just a piece of cloth.