FLAG DAY: Here’s what the Bradford Era had to say 100 years ago
on this day:

“Flag Day is set apart for the purpose of strengthening the
patriotic feeling toward the American flag, and as Bradford is a
patriotic city, the town should be ablaze with Old Glory
today.”

Certainly, that sentiment is still alive in Bradford where many
people make sure the Stars and Stripes is prominently placed
outside their homes, especially on days like today and the Fourth
of July.

But one reader feels strongly about the appearance of flags
flying on municipal buildings in particular.

“It seems like the American flag has been around since 1776, and
using them to show our respect for our nation has been an issue
ever since,” Ron Marafioti writes.

“So how can Bradford not have a flag fund?” he asks.

Ron writes in response to a veteran’s comments in a previous
column who questioned why municipalities don’t have flag funds to
replace any tattered or ragged flags flying on city buildings.

“How many flags are in tatters now, and does the municipality
need to replace them all?” Ron asks. “What sizes? Can local
merchants be counted on to donate the needed flags?

“As long as Bradford is willing to put a flag fund in place in
next year’s budget, there ought to be a way of obtaining flags that
truly represent our great nation and those who serve it – and us –
every day.”

Ron, who says he is a graduate of Bradford Area High School and
a retired military veteran, ended his e-mail with an offer.

“Let me know if I can help correct this issue, too. I am very
upset to learn that my hometown cannot mount intact flags on its
buildings that respectfully demonstrate our love for our
country.”

SALUTE: Today seems a good day to salute the many veterans and
troops who have so bravely represented our flag and our country –
and continue to do so. Let’s remember them whenever we see a flag
flying today and in the days to come.

FLAG FACTS: On June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress proposed
a national flag for the U.S. instead of the British Union Jack. In
the 1890s, flags began to be frequently displayed on all public
buildings. In August 1949, President Harry S. Truman proclaimed
June 14 as Flag Day.