Seven decades ago this month, half of World War II ended with the surrender of Germany. The timing made May 30, 1945 – Memorial Day – particularly meaningful, and American flags played a major role. You can see for yourself by watching a newsreel from that month. “As America shifts her armed might to finish… continue
If every American sings loudly enough, Canadians and Mexicans might be able to hear “The Star-Spangled Banner” on Flag Day. That’s because every American is being invited to sing the National Anthem at 4 p.m. EDT on June 14. In addition, “The Star-Spangled Banner” — both the original manuscript of the words and the original… continue
In May 1864, 150 years ago, President Lincoln was still immersed in the Civil War. Although the key victories of Gettysburg and Vicksburg had passed, a full year of the conflict still lay ahead. That month was also a time of flags for the Great Emancipator. In mid-May, supporters of the president gathered to promote… continue
Flags are flying throughout America as the baseball season debuts this week. Stadiums across the country (and in Canada) will be topped with pennants snapping in the wind. “The Star-Spangled Banner” will be sounded and sung. That’s true now, and it was true a century ago in the major and minor leagues. In April 1914,… continue
It flew at Yorktown when the American Revolution ended. It flapped at Gettysburg in November 1863, when Abraham Lincoln spoke his memorable words. It’s Old Glory. Well, yes – and no. The term “Old Glory” has become synonymous with “American flag” and “the Stars and Stripes.” Originally, however, Old Glory was not a generic term…. continue