THE AMERICAN FLAG

 

ITS USE- ITS FORBIDDEN ABUSE.

The American flag is the symbol of the brotherhood of man.
It stands for courage, for chivalry, for generosity, and honor. No hand must touch it roughly, no hand shall touch it irreverently.

Its position is aloft, to float over its children, uplifting their eyes and hearts by its glowing colors and splendid promise; for un der the stars and stripes are opportunities unknown to any other nation of the world.

The Government commands the people to honor their flag. Men and boys should uncover as they pass the vivid stripes which represent the life blood of brave men, and the stars which shall shine on forever.

It must be raised at sunrise, lowered at sunset. It is not a plaything of the hour; it is a birthright of privilege and integrity. 

It may not be used as staff, or whip, or covering. 

It shall not be marred by advertisement, nor desecrated on the stage. 

It was born in tears and blood. It was baptized in blood and tears.

It has floated since June 14, 1777, over a country of benevolence, refuge, and progress.

It must always be carried upright. To bear the Star Spangled Banner is an honor, to own one- a sacred trust.

It is the emblem of freedom, of equality, of justice for every person and creature as it floats unvanquished, untarnished, over the open door of free education.

 IDA LOUISE GIBBS  

Chairman Committee on Prevention of Desecration of the Flag, 

Daughters of the American Revolution, Massachusetts, 1912.

MRS. J.G. DUNNING, State Regent. 

References:

2.4 NOV1914 MEMORIAL DAY May Thirtieth 1914