Tag: American Flags

History Lessons

Colleges and flea markets have flags in common

At this time of year, hundreds of thousands of Americans are traveling around the country for two purposes: first, stopping at flea markets and antique shows while on vacation; and, second, delivering their children to college. Either way, they’re going to see flags. The American flag is a popular decoration at flea markets. Many vendors… continue

History Lessons

Fly flags to honor wounded veterans

A volunteer writes a letter for a soldier wounded in WWI. (Smithsonian Institution)

Wars throughout the centuries – large or small, won or lost, justified or not – have two things in common: flags and veterans. The flags fly as veterans march away – and back home, many of them injured in mind or body. A common term for such men and women is “wounded warriors,” a phrase… continue

History Lessons

Flags at graduation and for first victim of WWII

Captain Losey in the cockpit

Over the four years of the Second World War, hundreds of thousands of U.S. servicemen were killed. Their bodies and coffins were covered with American flags, and Old Glory waved over cemeteries from New Guinea to France. But the first casualty, who was killed by a Nazi bomb, occurred nearly two years before Pearl Harbor… continue

History Lessons

With American flags, a nation bids Lincoln farewell

Through the closing days of April 1865 and into the opening days of May, a train adorned with American flags and signs of deep mourning moved north from Washington, D.C. It would eventually turn west to Springfield, Illinois. It bore the body of Abraham Lincoln. Stopping in many cities along the route, the train gave… continue

History Lessons

Three American flags tied to Lincoln – or not?

This 1865 sheet music features a praying angel, mourning woman and Lincoln. (Library of Congress)

Last week’s article focused on the many flags associated with the assassination of Abraham Lincoln 150 years ago this month. Three American flags that may have been involved with major events in his life and death reside around the U.S. – maybe. FLAG #1: Three score and four stars One of the most famous speeches… continue