There are very view things that strongly signify freedom and respect for those that have given it to us. The obvious one is the row of tombstones in a military cemetery, each one bearing the name of a soldier who died, many of them at the hands of an enemy. A close second is the American flag. It’s one of my favorite things to take pictures of.
As a veteran myself, I can tell you that seeing that flag makes a guy feel good, especially when you’re overseas and in an unfamiliar country.
Having seen a giant American flag hoisted by two fire department ladder trucks at the funeral of my good friend Brian McMillen, the flag signifies respect and honor for those that have died while fighting for our freedom. It is an image I will never forget.
I think the symbolism and honor the flag evokes derives from the creation of the flag itself. It’s not a design that was done to appease a customer and sell thousands of copies like a modern day t-shirt or banner. The flag is full of symbolism, and represents the history of this nation. The 13 stripes, alternating red and white, represent the 13 British colonies that formed the first Union, and the 50 stars each represent a state in the United States of America. It’s the history of this great nation all wrapped up in one flag, easily flown to show support and appreciation.
Flying the flag is an easy way to say “Thank You” to veterans, both past and present, and I can tell you from experience…they appreciate it.