Growing up on and around military bases, holidays like Memorial Day, Flag Day, July 4th, and Veterans Day weren’t just days on the calendar — they were events, traditions, and moments of community pride. No matter how small the base, there was always something going on. I especially loved the parades — the energy, the music, the sense of unity. But the moment that still gives me chills, even now, is the Retreat ceremony at 5:00 PM.
Every evening on base, the American flag is lowered as part of the Retreat. A bugle sounds, and all activities stop. People outside pause, turn to face the flag, and pay their respects. It’s a quiet yet powerful tradition that marks the end of the duty day — a moment to reflect on the sacrifices of those who serve and the meaning behind our flag.
That memory has stayed with me all these years. There's something deeply moving about watching the stars and stripes being lowered with such reverence, knowing the history and hardship it represents.
Flag Day, celebrated every June 14th, is often overshadowed by bigger summer holidays, but it’s a perfect time to pause and reflect on what the flag truly means. It’s been carried through battles, flown during victories, and waved proudly during times of national celebration. It symbolizes freedom, resilience, and unity — even in our most challenging moments.
So this Flag Day, I hope you’ll take just a moment to stop and honor it. Whether it’s by displaying a flag at your home, attending a local ceremony, or simply pausing at 5 PM to remember the tradition of Retreat — let’s give our flag the respect it deserves.
Because no matter where you are, the flag is a symbol that ties us all together.
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Wishing you a joyful and reflective Flag Day.