Celebrating U.S. Flag Day & U.S. Army’s 247th Birthday

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is highlighting both celebrations —  the 245th anniversary of the United States Flag and the U.S. Army’s  247th birthday, marking the Army’s beginning on June 14, 1775.

 U.S. FLAG DAY

“Happy 245th birthday to the U.S. Flag, a worldwide symbol of freedom since June 14, 1777,” said Congresswoman Aumua Amata.

 “American Samoa is proud to be part of the United States, and rightly proud of our people’s high rates of service in the Armed Forces. Each year, our islands’ biggest non-religious celebration is our own April 17 Flag Day, celebrating the U.S. flag-raising in Tutuila.”

“The main features of the flag, known as ‘Old Glory,’ have stayed constant since 1777, but the number of stars has been updated 15 times,” continued Amata. “Our Pacific neighbors, Hawaii and Alaska, rounded it out at the current 50 stars. Many patriots have fought under the flag for the ideals of freedom, and we honor them and the beautiful U.S. flag.”

U.S. ARMY CELEBRATES 247 YEARS

“Happy birthday to the United States Army!” said Congresswoman Aumua Amata.

“American Samoa is well represented in every part of the Armed Forces, but our highest in the nation recruiting rate is in the U.S. Army. Our people choose to serve for many reasons, but their roles in the world’s best trained and equipped military help keep peace and security in many places.”

“Generations of soldiers have served the cause of freedom, necessary in times of war and peace. They are also often called upon to ensure a response is possible in times of humanitarian crisis.

“Thank you to all of our Toa o Samoa, and to our military families. This day is especially about the Army, and may God bless our Soldiers and Army Veterans.”