Senator Farley Reflects on the Importance of Flag Day

Today, Sunday, June 14^th, is Flag Day. Many communities and schools have been hosting events honoring the American flag this past week. I had the pleasure of participating in the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Flag Day parade last Thursday with my dear friends Charles and Pat Merriam, who were the Grand Marshals.

 In celebrating this event, the Merriams stated: “We should all realize that without our great American flag, which so many people over the past years have died to keep it flying, we would not have this great country of freedom that we all enjoy today … Keep in mind the truth that those who have gone before us and those that are fighting and dying today strive to keep our great flag waving for freedom.”

I wish to echo his sentiments. This day is meant to reflect on the true meaning and history of the American flag. Our forefathers stood up for freedom and liberty, creating the United States of America. The flag represents this struggle for independence. Also, any time our military has fought on foreign soil, Americans have displayed the flag as an important way for those of us at home to express our support and prayers for the courageous young men and women serving our country. Our American flag has long exemplified the spirit of those who lost their lives in battle, as well as those who fought valiantly and survived.

Take the time today, please, to honor the flag and say a prayer for those who fought, and are fighting, to protect our flag and our Nation.