United States Flag Patch

Formation & Origins First adopted June 14, 1777, by resolution of the Second Continental Congress. Original design featured 13 stars representing the original colonies. Current 50-star version adopted July 4, 1960, following Hawaii's statehood. Has undergone 27 official design changes throughout American history.

Notable Commanders Not commanded but protected by all service members. Notable flag bearers include SGT William Carney (first African American Medal of Honor recipient) who carried the flag at Fort Wagner despite multiple wounds, declaring "The old flag never touched the ground!" Color sergeants held special position of honor in military formations throughout history.

Major Campaigns/Operations Present in every American military conflict. Famous raisings include Iwo Jima (1945), Moon landing (1969), and Ground Zero (2001). Carried across battlefields from Yorktown to Gettysburg, San Juan Hill to Normandy, Chosin Reservoir to Fallujah. Forward deployed with every American combat unit globally.

Specialized Role/Equipment Battle flags traditionally made of silk (now nylon) with gold fringe for ceremonial use. Military patches feature "reverse field" orientation (stars facing forward direction of travel) symbolizing charging into battle, never retreating. Specially reinforced grommets and weather-resistant materials for combat zones. Protocol dictates precise handling, folding, and display procedures.

Acts of Heroism During War of 1812, Mary Pickersgill created the "Star-Spangled Banner" flag that inspired Francis Scott Key. At Gettysburg, 1st Minnesota suffered 82% casualties defending the colors. During WWI, LT Samuel Woodfill continued advancing with the flag despite gas attacks. In Vietnam, countless acts of heroism occurred retrieving fallen colors under fire.

Legacy & Notable Achievements Symbol of national unity transcending political divisions. Regulated by U.S. Flag Code establishing proper display, handling, and retirement procedures. Folded 13 times with specific meaning for each fold. Military tradition requires flag never touches ground and receives 21-gun salute when retired. Displayed at half-staff to honor fallen service members. NASA places flag patch on all U.S. spacesuits. Only flag permitted to fly above state flags on same pole. Remains ultimate symbol of sacrifice with presentation to next-of-kin at military funerals with words "on behalf of a grateful nation."