What Does the United States Flag Stand For?

by Johanna Olano
June 2001


    An elegant silhouette against the peaceful blue heavens, swaying gently with the breeze, signifies a constant reminder of its existence as the flag of the United Sates, symbolizing what we are. Created in freedom on June 14, 1777, the American flag was introduced to the world to represent a proud new nation dedicated to the personal and religious liberty of mankind. The flag of the United Sates became an emblem of the people and what would became the greatest constitutional republic in the world.
   The red, white, and blue signify the patriotic principle and spiritual elements of American citizens. Red stripes proclaim the bravery of American men and the personal sacrifice and loyalty of American women; white stripes testify liberty and equality. A field of blue denotes heavens well as faith and devotion.  The stars portraying each sovereign state.
   However, behind those colors and stars lie stories of out fore fathers, the Pilgrims, struggling during their first winter; the Minuteman waiting his death at Concord Bridge; the army of men freezing and starving at valley Forge; and of the settler cutting trees on his new land. It is the story of liberation that people see in the multitude of blessings, and of the right and privileges that is the essence of our country.
   Americas's birthright, its heritage of liberty acquired with blood, pain, and sorrow is what the flag epitomizes. Moreover, the flag is the scared emblem of our country, the Unites States of America. Once in awhile, we reflect on those who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Within the flag, the faces of those who fought for our very freedom can be seen, their pain felt, their bravery and service commended, their memory kept alive. Embodying America freedom and the sanctity of the home, the flag remains a reminder of our rights and duties. Swaying in the high heavens with pride and distinction, the star spangled banner forever signifies liberty, justice, and humanity, a constant remembrance of greatness, a reason to live and a reason to die for.


*** Printed  at The Lemoore Advance June 7, 2001. This essay won the National Fleet Reserve Association's 2001 Americanism-Patriotism Essay Contest for 12th grade group.