Flag Day 2025
June 14th is Flag Day, a day set aside to honor the adoption of the American flag in 1777. For most Americans, it’s a patriotic observance. But for those who have worn the uniform and for the families who stood behind them, the flag holds a deeper, more personal meaning. It’s not just a symbol of the nation; it’s a reminder of service, sacrifice, and shared purpose.
MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 4, 2024) Sailors assigned to the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) and Marines with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Special Operations Capable (SOC) pose for a photo during a steel beach picnic aboard the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21), July 4, 2024.
Here in Houston, home to one of the largest veteran communities in the country, Flag Day is an opportunity to reconnect with what the flag represents and each other.
What Flag Day Means to Veterans
For veterans, the flag is more than fabric, it’s part of our story.
We saluted it in formation. We watched it rise at dawn on bases near and far. Some of us carried it into combat zones, others folded it at memorials and burials. The flag accompanied us through transitions, both joyful and painful. It united us, no matter where we served or what branch we came from.
Flag Day gives us space to reflect:
What did the flag mean to you when you first enlisted?
How has that meaning changed since returning to civilian life?
What does it mean to your family, children, spouse, and community?
Member of the U.S. Army Parachute Team (USAPT), Sgt. 1st Class Joshua Evans, flies the American Flag onto Miami Beach on May 23, 2025, in advance of the Hyundai Air and Sea Show in Miami, Florida. (U.S. Army Photo by Spc. Mari Kossman)
Ways to Observe Flag Day in Houston
Are you looking to commemorate the day in a meaningful way? Here are several ways veterans and their families in the Houston area can honor Flag Day:
1. Fly the Flag with Purpose
Raise your flag at home or your business. Make sure it’s in good condition, and follow proper flag etiquette. (Not sure how? The VA has a great guide here.)
2. Attend a Local Flag Retirement Ceremony
Flag Day is one of the official days when worn or damaged flags are formally retired. Local VFW posts, American Legion chapters, and scout troops often host respectful flag disposal events. It’s a powerful, family-friendly way to teach younger generations about respect and tradition.
3. Visit a Memorial
Take a trip to the Houston National Cemetery, Veterans Memorial Park, or the Heights Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Bring flowers, spend a few quiet moments, and reflect on those who served under the same flag.
4. Connect with Other Veterans
Use Flag Day to check on your battle buddies or visit a local VSO event. Community is a strength, and personal connection can go a long way for mental health and morale.
5. Share Your Story
Talk to your kids, grandkids, or neighbors about what the flag means to you. Share photos, letters, or stories from your time in service. Veterans are living history. Your perspective helps keep the meaning of the flag alive.
Members of the American Samoa Police parade during the 125th celebration of Flag Day at Pago Pago, American Samoa, April 17. Flag Day marks the day that the American flag flew over the islands for the first time and made them a U.S. territory. Veterans, service members, families, and friends paraded, celebrated, and enjoyed refreshments from vendors. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Tala Hunt)
Flag Day Is Also About Family
While veterans carried the flag into service, families carried the weight of that service at home. Spouses managed households alone, kids grew up with birthdays and holidays on pause, and parents worried with every deployment.
So, this Flag Day, let’s also honor the families who stood behind the uniform. It’s a great day to say thank you, reminisce, and maybe start a new tradition together, whether that’s a family cookout, attending a local event, or simply raising the flag as a family.
Army Medical Logistics Command’s Command Sgt. Major Gabriel Wright (left) and Commander Col. Marc Welde (right) salute after laying a Memorial Day wreath during a ceremony with Miss Poppy May 25, in Woodsboro, Maryland.
Photo by Ric Dugan, Used with permission from Frederick News Post.
A Final Word
Houston’s veteran community is diverse, strong, and deeply rooted in service. On Flag Day, let’s remember what unites us: pride in our country, respect for our flag, and commitment to one another. Whether you're newly transitioned or decades out of service, this day is for you.
Thank you for your service. Thank you to your families. And Happy Flag Day, Houston.
