To the editor:
Americans everywhere proudly hoist the Stars and Stripes for Flag Day and city streets blaze with red, white and blue on June 14. American Legion Auxiliary Units throughout our great state of Maine will join ALA units across the country in conducting proper flag-collection and retirement ceremonies, holding flag education sessions and encouraging all to fly the flag this day and every day.
Citizens of Maine, this year marks the 100th anniversary of World War I. Our nation has changed in many ways. One constant in our history books is our willingness to stand and defend our freedom and the freedom of others. Our veterans, our military and their families have given many sacrifices to preserve the integrity of the USA for which our forefathers paid for so dearly. In honor of their service, let’s all band together and be united as one and place Our Old Glory out on Saturday, June 14.
Flag Day is a time to reflect on our freedoms and the principles of our great nation for which the flag stands. It is also a time to protect Old Glory. Protection of our flag impairs no one’s free speech. It does not prevent ideas from being expressed. It involves no censorship of an idea. Fly your red, white and blue today and every day to honor and celebrate our freedoms and opportunities as Americans.
The American Legion Auxiliary’s more than 750,000 members have dedicated themselves for nearly a century to meeting the needs of our nation’s veterans, military and their families both here and abroad. They volunteer millions of hours annually, with a value of nearly $2 billion. As part of the world’s largest women’s patriotic service organization, Auxiliary volunteers across the country also step up to honor veterans and military through annual scholarships and with ALA Girls State programs, teaching young junior members to be leaders grounded in patriotism and Americanism.
To learn more about the Auxiliary’s mission or to volunteer, donate or join, visit www.ALAforVeterans.org or contact ALA, Dept. of Maine at (207) 465-4966.
May God bless you all and our great nation.
Georgine Butman, president
Maine Dept. ALA
Greenville Junction
