Boys Town Texas
Texas Youth Learn History, Care for the American Flag
Youth at Boys Town Texas will proudly display the red, white and blue this Independence Day with proper flag etiquette.
On Flag Day, June 12, Peter Van De Putte, local Texas flag maker and president of Dixie Flag Company, displayed 12 full-size flags ranging from a British flag to the present day “Old Glory,” to show the kids how the United States flag has evolved during America’s history.
“It was cool to find out about the history of the flags and where they came from,” said Jeannette, a youth at Boys Town Texas.
The flags documented the history, legend and craft of the United States Flag. Van de Putte shared the stories of Betsy Ross, who sewed the first flag, and Francis Scott Key, who wrote the Star Spangled Banner upon seeing the flag still standing after a battle. He also explained to the kids how each of the 50 stars corresponds to a certain state.
“I learned that the 28th star on the flag represents Texas because Texas was the 28th state,” said Amanda, a youth at Boys Town Texas.
Because of the significance of the messages flags carry, they should be treated respectfully, Van de Putte told the kids. American flag etiquette requires that no part of the flag touch the ground or any other object when lowered, that it be received by waiting hands and arms, and that it be folded neatly and ceremoniously when stored.
“The presentation was excellent for the kids,” said Brian Thomas, Boys Town Texas Shelter Shift Supervisor. “It was informative and historical at the same time.”
At the end of his presentation, Van de Putte gave each child a hand-held American flag to help celebrate Independence Day and remember that the flag stands for freedom.
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