Ricketts Op-Ed: Celebrate what the American flag stands for this Flag Week

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The following column by Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) was originally published by the Omaha World Herald on June 14, 2026. By Senator Pete Ricketts June 14 through June 20 is National Flag Week. We set this week aside to honor the American flag and the freedoms it represents. When I was a kid, I entered a speech competition for America’s bicentennial. Our topic was “what does the flag represent?” and I spoke on the symbolism in our flag. My mom, Marlene, helped me prepare for this speech. She even sewed a red, white, and blue suit for me. This is a core memory from my childhood. The suit my mom made me of course was unforgettable. But even more important was the impact this speech had on me at such a young age. Understanding the meaning of the flag ignited my love for our great nation. This year, we celebrate America’s 250th birthday. This anniversary encourages us to reflect on the history of our nation. The American flag is perhaps one of the best ways to remember America’s story and the values we hold dear. George Washington is quoted as saying, “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 liberty.” But it was the Secretary of the Continental Congress who established the official colors. The red stands for valor and bravery. It honors the women and men who have laid down their lives to secure our great nation. The white stands for purity. We are an independent nation. We have our own values. The blue stands for justice and perseverance. We strive to maintain the land that we love. Most important, though, is that our union prevails under our flag. Its design has changed, mirroring our republic’s prosperity and growth. Yet we still stand together as one nation under God. Our flag survived over Fort McHenry amid British bombardment in the War of 1812. It flew over Fort Sumter and then united a divided nation. It gained its 37th star in 1867 for the newly admitted state of Nebraska. It flew over Iwo Jima. It was planted on the moon. It was raised on Ground Zero on Sept. 11, 2001. It’s draped upon the caskets of the heroes who died for our freedom. And it hangs in classrooms as the next generation learns our history. For 250 years, our American flag has inspired and rallied through times of triumph and tragedy. With each year, my appreciation for the American flag grows. One of my great privileges as a U.S. Senator is to have flags flown over the U.S. Capitol for Nebraskans. Presenting these flags is a simple yet meaningful recognition of achievements and milestones. At a time when our nation feels divided on many important issues, our flag is a reminder of all that unites us as Americans. This week, I encourage every Nebraskan to celebrate Old Glory. Sing the Star-Spangled Banner with friends and family. Reflect on the Pledge of Allegiance. Think about the moments in your life that grew your love for our nation. And most importantly, take a moment to enjoy the freedoms our flag represents. Happy Flag Week, Nebraska! God bless America! Flags can be flown over the U.S. Capitol any day of the year for special occasions or events. I encourage Nebraskans to consider this meaningful gesture to recognize the remarkable achievements and contributions of individuals and organizations within our communities. Flag requests can be made by contacting my office at 202-224-4224 or on my website at www.ricketts.senate.gov/services .