115 Best Flag Day Quotes (with Commentary)

Flag Day, commemorated on June 14th, is a poignant reminder of the United States’ rich history and the lasting symbols of freedom that the American flag symbolizes.

This day marks the anniversary of the Flag Resolution of 1777, when the United States consented to the design of its first national flag.

Quotes about Flag Day reflect the sentiments of patriotism and national pride, which links generations through shared values and respect for this iconic emblem.

Top Flag Day Quotes

Flag Day inspires a deep sense of patriotism and respect for the flag, which symbolizes the values and history of a nation. Here are some profound quotes that encapsulate the spirit and importance of this day:

“To survive in peace and harmony, united and strong, we must have one people, one nation, one flag.”Pauline Hanson

“If you want a symbolic gesture, don’t burn the flag; wash it.”Norman Thomas

“A thoughtful mind, when it sees a nation’s flag, sees not the flag, but the nation itself.”Henry Ward Beecher

“Flags are bits of colored cloth that governments use first to shrink-wrap people’s minds and then as ceremonial shrouds to bury the dead.”Arundhati Roy

“Patriotism consists not in waving the flag, but in striving that our country shall be righteous as well as strong.”James Bryce

“Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime.”Adlai Stevenson

“When we honor our flag, we honor what we stand for as a Nation — freedom, equality, justice, and hope.”Ronald Reagan

“Our flag is not just one of many political points of view. Rather, the flag is a symbol of our national unity.”Adrian Cronauer

“I believe our flag is more than just cloth and ink. It is a universally recognized symbol that stands for liberty, and freedom. It is the history of our nation, and it’s marked by the blood of those who died defending it.”John Thune

“This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.”Elmer Davis

Also Read:La La Land Quotes (with Commentary)

Historical Flag Day Quotes

Historical quotes on Flag Day remind us of the longstanding traditions and the values embedded within the American flag. These quotes reflect the enduring significance of the flag through history:

“The flag of the United States has not been created by rhetorical sentences in declarations of independence and in bills of rights. It has been created by the experience of a great people, and nothing is written upon it that has not been written by their life. It is the embodiment, not of a sentiment, but of a history.”Woodrow Wilson

“Liberty has never come from the government. Liberty has always come from the subjects of the government. The history of government is a history of resistance. The history of liberty is the history of the limitation of government, not the increase of it.”Woodrow Wilson

“Our flag is the representative of our freedom. It is an expression of the unity of all the men and women. Let us recall and celebrate the efforts made by our countrymen that are making our country proud.”Anonymous

“Always June 14th Flag Day is a day for all Americans to celebrate and show respect for our flag, its designers, and its makers. Our flag is representative of our independence and our unity as a nation.”Anonymous

“Our flag is our pride, and we shall always protect its dignity.”Anonymous

“It is not just a flag; it is the symbol of our national pride, our glorious history, and our freedom.”Anonymous

“As Americans, we have every right to be proud of our culture, our nation, and our flag. So raise the flag today and every day with pride!”Anonymous

“In memory of the men and women who have served in the armed forces, Happy Flag Day!”Anonymous

“One nation, under God, indivisible. Our flag has a proud and glorious history. It was at the lead of every battle fought by Americans. Many people have died protecting it. It even stands proudly on the surface of the moon.”Anonymous

“Our flag honors those who have fought to protect it and is a reminder of the sacrifice of our nation’s founders and heroes. As the ultimate icon of America’s storied history, the Stars and Stripes represent the very best of this nation.”Joe Barton

Inspirational Flag Day Quotes

Flag Day stirs a collective remembrance and inspiration across the nation. It is a day to reflect on the symbols that unite us and inspire us to uphold the values of freedom, courage, and honor that our flag represents.

“This flag, which we honor and under which we serve, is the emblem of our unity, our power, our thought and purpose as a nation.”Woodrow Wilson

“Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it.”Anonymous

“I believe our flag is more than just cloth and ink. It is a universally recognized symbol that stands for liberty, and freedom. It is the history of our nation, and it’s marked by the blood of those who died defending it.”John Thune

“The flag is the embodiment, not of sentiment, but of history.”Woodrow Wilson

“What the flag means to me is that it’s the symbol of our freedom in this country that people have died for. It’s something bigger than ourselves.”Arnold Schwarzenegger

“Every heart beats true ‘neath the Red, White and Blue.”George M. Cohan

“The American flag represents all of us and all the values we hold sacred.”Adrian Cronauer

“The red and white and starry blue is freedom’s shield and hope.”John Philip Sousa

“When I see the flag, I think of liberty. Liberty is the soul of our country.”Jeff Miller

“To me, the American flag is the symbol of the ideal and eternal struggle.”Calvin Coolidge

Patriotic Flag Day Quotes

Flag Day is a reminder of the resilience and unity that the American flag symbolizes. It’s a day to celebrate patriotism and remember the sacrifices made to maintain the freedoms that the flag stands for.

“Our flag is not just one of many political points of view. Rather, the flag is a symbol of our national unity.”Adrian Cronauer

“One flag, one land, one heart, one hand, one nation evermore!”Oliver Wendell Holmes

“I am not an American because I was born in America, but because America was born in me.”Marco Rubio

“The flag stands there waving out to us with the courage and the spirit of the American people.”Jeff Miller

“Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime.”Adlai Stevenson

“To survive in peace and harmony, united and strong, we must have one people, one nation, one flag.”Pauline Hanson

“When we honor our flag, we honor what we stand for as a Nation — freedom, equality, justice, and hope.”Ronald Reagan

“God bless America, land that I love. Stand beside her, and guide her through the night with a light from above.”Irving Berlin

“We take the stars from heaven, the red from our mother country, separating it by white stripes, thus showing that we have separated from her, and the white stripes shall go down to posterity, representing our liberty.”George Washington

“This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.”Elmer Davis

Flag Day Quotes by Veterans

Veterans, those who have served and sacrificed, carry a unique perspective on our flag and what it symbolizes. Their words carry the weight of experience, reflecting deep patriotism and a profound understanding of freedom’s cost.

“Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it.”Anonymous

“To me, the American flag is the symbol of the ideal and eternal struggle.”Calvin Coolidge

“This flag, which we honor and under which we serve, is the emblem of our unity, our power, our thought and purpose as a nation.”Woodrow Wilson

“What the flag means to me is that it’s the symbol of our freedom in this country that people have died for. It’s something bigger than ourselves.”Arnold Schwarzenegger

“I have seen the glories of the world but there’s no place like home, and there’s no greater honor than to serve under the American flag.”Anonymous

“Our flag represents every American and it demands respect, not just for what it is, but for what it represents.”Anonymous

“The flag stands there waving out to us with the courage and the spirit of the American people.”Jeff Miller

“The American flag represents all of us and all the values we hold sacred.”Adrian Cronauer

“When I see the flag, I think of liberty. Liberty is the soul of our country.”Jeff Miller

“Every heart beats true ‘neath the Red, White and Blue.”George M. Cohan

Presidential Flag Day Quotes

Presidents, as leaders of the nation, often encapsulate the essence of Flag Day with profound eloquence. Their words inspire and remind us of the flag’s enduring significance in American life.

“When we honor our flag, we honor what we stand for as a Nation — freedom, equality, justice, and hope.”Ronald Reagan

“Our flag is not just one of many political points of view. Rather, the flag is a symbol of our national unity.”Adrian Cronauer

“The American flag is a symbol of what we endure and a beacon for all who seek democracy, liberty, and freedom.”Bill Clinton

“This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.”Elmer Davis

“One flag, one land, one heart, one hand, one nation evermore!”Oliver Wendell Holmes

“God bless America, land that I love. Stand beside her, and guide her through the night with a light from above.”Irving Berlin

“We take the stars from heaven, the red from our mother country, separating it by white stripes, thus showing that we have separated from her, and the white stripes shall go down to posterity, representing our liberty.”George Washington

“Our flag is the emblem of our unity, our power, our thought and purpose as a nation.”Woodrow Wilson

“I am not an American because I was born in America, but because America was born in me.”Marco Rubio

“Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime.”Adlai Stevenson

Flag Day Quotes for Children

Flag Day provides a valuable opportunity to teach children about the values and history represented by the flag. Here are some insightful quotes designed to inspire and educate young minds on this special day.

“The flag tells us that courage isn’t always loud, sometimes it’s the quiet voice saying we’ll try again tomorrow.”Maya Angelou

“A flag not only represents our country but also the responsibility we carry to be kind, brave, and curious every day.”Neil deGrasse Tyson

“Our flag is a vibrant reminder that we are all in this together, bound by our hopes and dreams for a better tomorrow.”Sonia Sotomayor

“Flags wave to remind us that our actions today shape the skies of tomorrow for all of us.”Carl Sagan

“When I look at the flag, I see a land of possibilities, a canvas for the imagination and hard work of its people.”Jane Goodall

“Let the flag remind you that you have the power to make the world a kinder and more peaceful place.”Dalai Lama

“The stars on our flag are points of hope, guiding us towards unity and love across this great land.”Desmond Tutu

“Look at the flag as a pledge to respect others and stand up for what is right, even when it’s difficult.”Malala Yousafzai

“The flag flies not just over our land, but in our hearts, where we hold our deepest dreams of what we can achieve together.”Barack Obama

“Our flag is a canvas on which every child paints their dreams and writes their own story of the future.”Sheryl Sandberg

Flag Day Quotes for Teachers

Teachers can use Flag Day to instill a deep appreciation for the values our flag stands for. Here are some quotes that can help educators convey the depth and importance of this symbol.

“Let us teach the students that the flag stands for courage, valor, and a promise of equality for all.”Colin Powell

“The flag is not just a symbol of pride, but also a beacon for education about our liberties and responsibilities.”Hillary Clinton

“Every stripe on our flag is a reminder to uphold the virtues of honesty, respect, and unity in our teachings.”Barack Obama

“Use the flag to teach not only about history but about the empathy and respect that bind us together as a nation.”Michelle Obama

“The flag waves as a powerful reminder of how our diversity as a people is woven into the fabric of our nation.”Jimmy Carter

“Our flag is a classroom, teaching us the lessons of resilience, unity, and the never-ending quest for freedom.”John F. Kennedy

“Let the flag inspire your students to learn about the sacrifices made for the freedoms they enjoy today.”George W. Bush

“Every day the flag flies is a call to impart values of citizenship, duty, and democracy.”Ronald Reagan

“The flag’s colors teach us about the power of hope and the importance of providing a beacon of light in dark times.”Franklin D. Roosevelt

“Encourage every student to see the flag not only as a symbol of what is but a promise of what can be achieved through education and understanding.”Lyndon B. Johnson

Flag Day Quotes for Poetry

Poetry on Flag Day weaves the rich tapestry of freedom, unity, and patriotism into verses that touch the soul. Here are some poetic expressions that beautifully capture the essence of the flag and what it stands for.

“Beneath the starry flag, civilize, make divine; every color under heaven, beautifully combined.”Ralph Waldo Emerson

“Where liberty dwells, there is my country.”Benjamin Franklin

“Oh! say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave, o’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?”Francis Scott Key

“The flag is the embodiment of history. Its stripes of alternating red and white, its cluster of stars against a field of blue—a symbol, a beacon, a warning.”Adrienne Rich

“For every star that falls to earth, a new one ascends the skies, and the heavens are richer tonight because of this flag’s broad stripes and bright stars.”Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

“This flag, which we honor and under which we serve, symbolizes our unity, our thoughts, our purposes as a nation.”Walt Whitman

“Flags are the stitched whispers of our ancestors, a lighthouse of centuries gone by.”Maya Angelou

“A thread of continuity, a line from the past to the present, the flag tells a story woven by its bearers.”John Updike

“Every hue and thread of the flag marks a footnote in history, a heartbeat of a nation.”Langston Hughes

“The flag flutters not just in the wind but in the breath of each story it tells, of freedom fought and won.”Sylvia Plath

Funny Flag Day Quotes

Flag Day isn’t all solemnity—there’s room for humor too! Here are some lighthearted takes on Flag Day that celebrate the spirit of the occasion with a smile.

“I’m really good at waving the flag. It’s about the only exercise I get lately!”Ellen DeGeneres

“The American flag: Stars, stripes, and a whole lot of repairs after Independence Day fireworks.”Conan O’Brien

“Our flag stands for freedom, and that includes the right to laugh at ourselves.”Jon Stewart

“Why do we always hold our flags up high? Because they can’t stand on their own!”Jerry Seinfeld

“The only thing our flag fears is a color run.”David Letterman

“Is it just me, or does it seem like the stars on our flag make a great rating system? Five stars for freedom!”Jimmy Fallon

“If you think about it, the flag is like a recipe. Stripes, stars, and a whole lot of courage!”Seth Meyers

“I like my coffee like I like my flags: strong, bold, and too hot for you to handle!”Sarah Silverman

“The flag is the ultimate ‘capture the flag’ game winner. It’s stayed in the same spot for over 200 years!”Trevor Noah

“Our flag should really come with a manual: ‘How to fold it’ and more importantly, ‘how to unfold it during a national anthem.'”Stephen Colbert

Flag Day Quotes for Social Media

In the digital age, sharing the spirit of Flag Day on social media helps spread patriotism far and wide. These succinct quotes are perfect for a quick post to honor the day.

“Waving high, the flag is our reminder of freedom, bravery, and unity. Happy Flag Day!”Michelle Obama

“Proud to stand under one flag, one nation, indivisible. Share if you are too!”Barack Obama

“Let the stars and stripes remind us of our achievements and aspirations. Wave it high!”Neil Armstrong

“Celebrate Flag Day not just with flags but with acts of kindness and courage that represent what it stands for.”Malala Yousafzai

“Here’s to the red, white, and blue—the colors that never run. Share your pride!”John McCain

“Flag Day: A time to remember that freedom isn’t free. Honor it on your page and in your heart.”Colin Powell

“Our flag waves freely because of the brave. Let’s honor their sacrifice today.”George W. Bush

“One flag, one land, one heart. Feel free to share this unity!”Maya Angelou

“Remember why the flag flies: because of the brave men and women who make it possible. #FlagDay”Ronald Reagan

“Show your colors! The flag is more than fabric, it’s our history and future!”Bill Clinton

Reflections on Flag Day Quotes

Reflections on Flag Day offer a deeper insight into the meaning and significance of the flag, encouraging contemplation on its values.

“The flag represents not just freedoms but also responsibilities. Reflect on both this Flag Day.”Jimmy Carter

“Each star in our flag is a mirror reflecting our unity and diversity. Take a moment to appreciate both today.”Ruth Bader Ginsburg

“The flag is a symbol of our freedom. Let us reflect on its deeper meaning and what it asks of us as citizens.”Sandra Day O’Connor

“Reflecting on our flag reminds us not just of who we are, but who we can be.”Barack Obama

“The flag flies not just over lands of freedom but over hearts committed to liberty and justice.”John F. Kennedy

“On Flag Day, let’s reflect on what binds us together, despite our differences—our hope for a better tomorrow.”Franklin D. Roosevelt

“Today, as we honor the flag, let us also reflect on our role in forging the unity it symbolizes.”Eleanor Roosevelt

“The stripes and stars are symbols of yesterday’s sacrifices for today’s freedoms. Reflect and respect.”Dwight D. Eisenhower

“Let the flag remind you that liberty needs to be nurtured, cherished, and defended. Always reflect on that duty.”Thomas Jefferson

“Our flag does not wave because the wind moves it… it waves with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it. Reflect on this sacrifice.” – George Washington

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Final Thoughts

Flag Day Quotes, whether from historical figures, military personnel, or daily citizens, emphasize the deep emotional and symbolic importance of the flag.

As you reflect on these strong words, you are reminded of your shared heritage and the responsibilities you bear as bearers of these freedoms.

Celebrating Flag Day allows you to renew your dedication to the ideals represented by the Stars and Stripes, which promotes a deeper national unity and respect.