Flag Day: Honoring the Symbol of American Freedom

Flag Day, celebrated annually on June 14th, is a day dedicated to honoring the flag of the United States of America—a symbol of freedom, unity, and the sacrifices made by those who fought for our nation's independence. While Memorial Day and Veterans Day honor the men and women who have served, Flag Day is a time for all Americans to reflect on the enduring symbol of the American flag and what it represents.

At Gear Up Surplus, we’re proud to carry a variety of flags, from the American flag to military and historical flags, such as the Gadsden flag and state flags like Florida. Join us as we explore the history of Flag Day, the importance of the American flag, and why we continue to honor this powerful symbol in our country.

The History of Flag Day

The roots of Flag Day can be traced back to June 14th, 1777, when the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution that officially adopted the stars and stripes design as the flag of the United States of America. The original flag had 13 stars and 13 stripes, each representing one of the 13 colonies that declared independence from Britain.

Flag Day itself was not officially recognized as a national holiday until 1916, when President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation calling for the observance of Flag Day on June 14th each year. However, it wasn’t until 1949 that Congress officially designated June 14th as National Flag Day, a day dedicated to the flag that has represented the United States for over two centuries.

Why We Celebrate Flag Day

Flag Day is not a public holiday, meaning most businesses remain open, but it serves as an important reminder of the enduring values and principles that the American flag symbolizes. The flag represents:

• Freedom: The right to speak, to express, and to make choices freely.

• Unity: Despite our differences, the flag reminds us that we are one nation.

• Sacrifice: The flag is a tribute to those who gave their lives for our country, both in war and peace.

• Heritage: It connects us to our nation’s history, from the founding of the U.S. to today.

On Flag Day, we take a moment to reflect on these values and show respect for the flag that represents them.

Different Types of Flags We Carry

At Gear Up Surplus, we offer a wide selection of flags for both personal and decorative use. Whether you’re looking to show your patriotism, honor military service, or display a historical flag, we have something for everyone. Here’s a look at the types of flags you can find at our store:

1. American Flags

The American flag is the most iconic symbol of our nation. We carry a range of sizes, from small garden flags to large outdoor flags, designed to withstand the elements and show pride in the United States of America. Whether you display it at your home, office, or business, the stars and stripes represent the strength and unity of the U.S.

2. Military Flags

For those who wish to honor the U.S. military, we offer a variety of military flags that represent each branch of the armed forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. These flags are a perfect way to show support for veterans, active-duty personnel, and military families.

3. Historical Flags

The Gadsden Flag—with its iconic "Don’t Tread on Me" slogan—is a symbol of independence and resistance to tyranny. Originally used during the American Revolution, this flag remains a popular emblem for those who value individual rights and freedoms. We also carry other historical flags, such as the Betsy Ross flag and Gadsden’s coiled snake flag, which symbolize the early days of American independence.

4. State Flags

For those who want to showcase their state pride, we also carry a selection of state flags, including the Florida state flag. These flags are perfect for representing your local community or showing love for your home state.

How to Properly Display the American Flag

On Flag Day, it’s important to remember the correct ways to display the American flag. Here are some guidelines to ensure the flag is shown with respect:

• Position: The flag should always be flown with the union (blue field with stars) in the top left corner, whether displayed horizontally or vertically.

• Respect: The flag should never touch the ground, and it should not be flown during inclement weather unless made of an all-weather fabric.

• Half-Staff: The flag should be flown at half-staff to honor those who have passed, especially during times of national mourning, such as the deaths of prominent leaders or military service members.

Why Choose Gear Up Surplus for Your Flags?

At Gear Up Surplus, we’re passionate about offering the highest-quality military surplus and tactical gear, and our flags are no exception. Whether you're a military veteran, a collector of historical flags, or simply someone who loves the outdoors, we have a flag for you. Our flags are made to last, durable enough for outdoor use, and available in a variety of designs to meet your needs.

Conclusion: Celebrate Flag Day with Gear Up Surplus

Flag Day is a time to honor the sacrifices and achievements of those who have fought for our nation’s freedom and independence. At Gear Up Surplus, we believe that the flag represents the enduring spirit of America. This Flag Day, whether you're displaying the American flag, the Gadsden flag, or state flags, let it serve as a reminder of our nation's values and the sacrifices made to protect them.

Stop by our store or visit our military surplus store online to explore our selection of flags and other patriotic items. Whether you need a military flag or a Gadsden flag, we’ve got you covered.