Old Glory

[Gator Claus]

Be sure to fly "Old Glory" tomorrow on June 14th. More importantly, take a few minutes to reflect on what the Flag of our Nation represents and renew your Pledge of Allegiance.

On June 14, 1777, during the Revolutionary War, the Continental Congress in Philadelphia adopted the "Stars and Stripes" as the official National Flag. The official, widespread observance of the Flag's birthday came on June 14/ 1877, when the Flag was one hundred years old. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson established Flag Day an annual national celebration. In 1949, Congress and President Truman officially made June 14th a permanent yearly observance. On June 14, 1954, President Eisenhower signed a bill adding two words, "under God" to the Pledge of Allegiance.

As Santa's we have the responsibility of setting the example and teaching the children what our Flag represents and what it means to be an American citizen. The following are excerpts from Santa's Drill Team's presentation of "Old Glory" that we are honored to present through out the year.

I am the Flag of the United States of America, and my name is "Old Glory!"

I was born on June 14, 1777. I am the sacred emblem of your country. I symbolize your birthright, your heritage of liberty purchased with blood and sacrifice.

I proudly stand for the four essential human Freedoms; the Freedom of Speech, the Freedom of Worship, the Freedom from Want, and the Freedom from Fear.

When you see me, remind yourself that I am the Flag of your country. I stand for what you are, no more, no less. Don't be ashamed if a tear comes to your eye or your heart beats a little faster when I pass by. Stand up, stand tall, and dedicate yourself to those principles for which I stand, "One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

My name is "Old Glory!" God grant that I may spend eternity in my "Land of the Free," because of the Brave!

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