Many people are aware of my collection of Old Navy Flag Tees. I’ve worn them ever since I was a boy and quite frankly I enjoy wearing them even today. I’ve worn them on many different occasions. “Why?” You may ask. Well, I’ve always grown up believing that any day is a great day to celebrate America and that the flag on the shirt represents and stands for far more than many realize.
One year while I was in Washington D.C. I learned to appreciate the American flag even more. Flags were everywhere and rightly so, as you are in the nation’s Capitol. Just outside of D.C. is a town called Arlington, VA. A very historic and important location in American History. I remember seeing Arlington National Cemetery where countless of Americans are remembered for their dedication and courage to this country. I saw the changing of the guard and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. I realized this was all part of the flag. The reason our nation can raise its flag is because of the people who sacrificed to make it happen.
In addition to Arlington was one of my favorite monuments I have ever seen to date in my trips to the area. It is the Iwo Jima Memorial or also called the Marine Corps War Memorial. This memorial depicted the very popular image of our American soldiers together pushing the American flag into position at Iwo Jima. The men displayed courage, grit, and an unwavering belief in what the Flag and America stood for. This too was part of the Flag.
You see, the flag isn’t just a flag, but a symbol of where America has been, the people who have served, and what we as a country stand for. More than ever, our country is tested by circumstances challenges, and conflicts, but we must not forget the identity of the flag or the identity of who we are as a nation. Just as the men at Iwo Jima pushed up the flag, so must we embrace courage, grit, and the unwavering belief that we are all Americans and that we are all part of one nation, one symbol, and one flag.
Betsy Ross wove it.
Francis Scott Key was inspired by it.
Men and women have fought and died for it.
And You and I have the honor of waving it!
So, from an Old Navy Flag Tee wearing Proud American, here’s wishing you a Happy Flag Day and a THANK YOU to all who serve! We have much to be thankful for and a Great Flag to be Waving! #FlagDay2016
Brandon Baumgarten 