You’re probably wondering why a patriotic article like this is on a fashion blog. There are many reasons, the first being, contrary to what some sports personalities and celebrities believe, being patriotic is fashionable. Case in point, there are over 1.3 million active duty military personnel who are willing to lay down their lives for our country. And that’s patriotism.
And of course, the Veterans! They are the men and women who have served. You can add tens of millions to that number. Plus, of course the military families of active duty and veterans.
Patriotism is not a trend nor it is a political statement. It is a way of life to millions of Americans. And yes, I’m a fashionista – a fashion editor to be exact. But, I am also a military wife and like those who are currently military family members. those before me and those who will be after me, flag raising and flag waving is a way of life.
I see Old Glory fly proud everyday when I go to work and on my way home. And today, on Veteran’s Day, my husband and I raise Old Glory in our home. For him, it is to remember his comrade-in-arms who just like him were willing (and still willing) to die for our country. For me, it is to honor my husband and all those who served and still serving because they are all standing on a wall to make sure we are free and can enjoy our freedom.
The American flag symbolizes the pride of our nation and serves as a constant reminder of those in the military who fight to protect our country and our freedom.
The flag has led our troops into battle, inspired creativity and patriotism, and has served as a symbol of our country, our form of government and our freedom for more than 240 years. It has withstood difficult weather conditions and unimaginable assaults and remains flying outside our businesses, our schools, our government buildings, at our outposts around the world and on the moon.
It is strong and resilient, just like the American people. In a world with so much unrest, our flag serves as an enduring reminder of our strength and the privileges of freedom and stability we enjoy in the United States.
On Veteran’s Day, take time as a proud American to show your patriotism, your strength and your support for the veteran community by celebrating our nation’s flag the right way. As you raise your Old Glory, remember these simple U.S. Flag Code rules as prescribed by the American Legion Auxiliary:
- When hoisting or lowering the flag, salute or place a hand over your heart.
- Display the flag vertically from sunrise to sunset, whether indoors or outdoors.
- The flag should not be displayed on rainy days, unless it is an all-purpose flag.
- When lowered, the flag should never touch anything beneath it.
Veteran’s Day is a perfect opportunity for Americans to demonstrate their patriotism by supporting our veterans, military and their families. Celebrating those who serve our country is core to the American Legion Auxiliary’s values and the central focus of the organization’s activities. For nearly a century, the organization has been honored to serve, educate and support those who serve our nation in the military.
Last year, ALA members donated 5 million hours of community service to our nation’s veterans. Members contribute time and funding to advocate on veterans issues, mentor youth, award scholarships, support shelters for homeless veterans and volunteer at local U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals.
To learn more about celebrating Flag Day and flag etiquette, visit ALAforVeterans.org.
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