Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga joins in the celebration of the birthday of the US flag and the US Army.
“On June 14, 1775, the Continental Army was formed by the Second Continental Congress to fight in the American Revolution. Two years later, on June 14, 1777, the Congress passed a Flag Resolution which established an official flag for the 13 original colonies to unite behind.
“Today, the United States Army celebrates 246 years of dedicated service to our great nation. What began as small militias made up of colonial volunteers and minutemen to its status today as the largest branch in the United States military with over one million soldiers on duty; it is fitting that we pause to acknowledge the Army’s long tradition of service and sacrifice.
“We also commemorate the adoption of the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of the United States. The American flag is a universally recognized symbol that stands for liberty, freedom, and equality for all; it is the emblem of the home of the free because of the brave.”
Governor Lemanu continued, “As we celebrate the history of our nation, let us remember that our flag is marked by the blood of those who have died defending it. On behalf of Lieutenant Governor Talauega and our families, we thank our soldiers and veterans for their enduring commitment to defend our nation with unwavering resolve.
“Happy 246th Birthday United States Army and Happy Flag Day!”
Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata also issued a statement:
“Happy birthday to the United States Army! Our men and women in our all-volunteer Army serve for many good reasons. As generations of soldiers before them have done, they serve the cause of freedom, and the security of the U.S. and our allies. It’s an important job, often a calling for many, and they do it well.
“For 246 years, the Army has been a crucial part of every generation of U.S. history. In American Samoa, we have many of our own serving, and many who know what it is to be in a military family. On this Army anniversary, we especially think of our soldiers and Veterans of the U.S. Army. Thank you all, and God bless our soldiers.”
In honor of the US flag, Congresswoman Uifa’atali said, “In American Samoa, earlier each year on April 17th, our own Flag Day is our most celebrated non-religious holiday, and we celebrate this same beautiful flag that dates back to June 14, 1777.
“On that day, the Continental Congress voted for it to become the permanent symbol of the new Republic for which they were risking their lives. Often called ‘Old Glory,’ the United States flag has an illustrious history.
“The field of stars has been updated 15 times, most recently with our Pacific neighbors, Hawaii and Alaska. Just last week, the world remembered D-Day, the great effort to liberate a continent, with much valor and sacrifice, under the flags of the U.S. and close allies. We can feel healthy pride and patriotism to be a part of the United States. On this anniversary, we honor the U.S. flag and its ideals of freedom.”
