June 14th of this year marks the 231st birthday of the US Flag. Many of us mark the day by flying our flags, wearing something patriotic, or attending a patriotic event. Much like the 4th of July, many of us celebrate the day with a good, old-fashioned barbeque. As Americans, whatever we choose to do on Flag Day, we should all pause to reflect on what the American Flag means to each of us. With our brave men and women in the armed forces serving so valiantly during this time of war, it is especially important to commemorate their service to our country by honoring the very flag veterans of past wars courageously fought to defend. Without their sacrifices, none of us would have a flag to honor.
The Flag of the United States of America is a source of pride that deserves our deepest respect. To respect a flag properly, when it is ready to be retired, is to burn it in a special Flag Retirement Ceremony. That is why I am asking the residents of Clarkstown to drop off their old, worn flags to the Clarkstown Town Clerk’s Office at 10 Maple Avenue, New City, N.Y. We will then make sure the flags are retired in the proper manner.
Last year, I instituted an essay contest open to all Clarkstown residents. The essay’s theme was: “What the American Flag Means to Me.” Type-written essays should be submitted to the Town Clerk’s Office by July 31, 2008, and include the writer’s name, address, age, and a phone number. The contest winner’s achievement and name will be written in an archival book that will become part of the Town of Clarkstown’s permanent archives. It is my hope that the Clarkstown residents who participate in this contest will be able to have a forum to express their feelings for our flag and how much it means to them. As proud Americans, may we long honor our nation’s symbol, not just this Flag Day, but every day.
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