From One Allentown Native To Another: Congressman Dent Commemorates Flag Day

Statement

From One Allentown Native To Another: Congressman Dent Commemorates Flag Day

U.S. Rep. Charlie Dent (PA-15) reminds all Americans to display the Stars and Stripes on Flag Day, June 14. Congressman Dent issued the following statement on Flag Day and the role the Lehigh Valley had in creating it:

"I have the honor of coming from Allentown, which played a role in establishing Flag Day as a national celebration. In 1906, members of the Allentown Elks organized a Flag Day ceremony in a city park. A year later, the Allentown Flag Day Association was founded; now in its 100th year, it is the oldest in the nation. The custom grew until President Wilson issued a proclamation in 1916, setting June 14 as national Flag Day.

"We commemorate the flag just as we do important figures in history. The American flag is considered a living thing because it represents a living nation. Along with our Constitution and our common language, our flag unites us as Americans. The Long may she wave, and long live the great land she represents."

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