Salem to Host Annual Massing of the Colors on Flag Day

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(SALEM) - The memories of Oregon servicemembers who have lost their lives during military service in Afghanistan and Iraq will be honored during the annual Flag Day Massing of the Colors and Service Remembrance event at the Oregon State Capitol on Flag Day, June 14th, at 2:30 PM.

Initiated 71 years ago, the Massing of the Colors is a unique, patriotic opportunity to honor America`s flag and veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces.

This year`s ceremony is being dedicated to Oregon servicemembers who have lost their lives during military service in Afghanistan and Iraq. Veterans groups and legislators will join with veterans and their families at a special tribute that will include a soloist, a singing group, a military bugler, and an address from Jim Willis, the Director of the Oregon Department of Veterans` Affairs.

`Flag Day is about history, patriotism, respect and community participation," Willis said. `This heralded celebration is first and foremost a day to promote pride in America`s flag, respect for the many brave men and women who have defended this country and a solemn salute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice."

An Oregon Army National Guard UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter has been requested to flyover over the State Capitol at approximately 2:35 PM.

The Massing of the Colors ceremony is open to the public and will be held at the Oregon State Capitol. For more information about the event, contact Mac MacDonald, the Commander of the Military Order of the World Wars, 15th Region, at 503-364-4299.

Flag Day was officially established by a Proclamation from President Woodrow Wilson in 1916 on the anniversary of the Flag Resolution of 1777. While Flag Day had been celebrated in various communities for years after Wilson`s proclamation, it was not until August 3rd, 1949, that President Harry Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 14th of each year as National Flag Day.