Summer is here, and it’s a great time to celebrate holidays of remembrance, holidays of Independence, and overall summer festivities. While there are many great ways to celebrate these patriotic holidays, we must ensure that in our celebration with food and festive décor, we’re not inadvertently dishonoring American flags or the servicemen/women whom we’re trying to recognize.
This weekend, at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, military personnel will place more than 275,000 flags in front of grave markers. The ceremony, known as “flags in,” will be imitated throughout the United States. Memorial Day, May 26 this year, is a chance to remember lost veterans, especially those who died in combat, as… continue
In May 1864, 150 years ago, President Lincoln was still immersed in the Civil War. Although the key victories of Gettysburg and Vicksburg had passed, a full year of the conflict still lay ahead. That month was also a time of flags for the Great Emancipator. In mid-May, supporters of the president gathered to promote… continue
Gettysburg Flag Works is about much more than making quality American flags. We’re also an active part of the community through our participation in the Stars for Our Troops program and by educating the public about American holidays, historical events, flag etiquette and care and lots of other relevant topics.
Many people like flags, but some take their interest to the nth degree. Those people are called vexillologists, meaning those who study the history, lore and meaning of flags. One such person is Scot Guenter, a professor of American Studies at San Jose State University. He agreed to answer some questions about his fascination with flags…. continue