F. James Sensenbrenner, June 7, 2002

"Resolved, that the flag of the United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field representing a new constellation."

With this resolution, on June 14, 1777, the Marine Committee of the Second Continental Congress authorized the creation of the original American Flag. Over the years, as our Union expanded, more stars were added to represent each new state, resulting in our current flag.

Traditionally a symbol of liberty, the US flag also represents our nation's pride, and is one sign, beyond all others, that symbolizes the beliefs, values, and principles of our nation. The American flag has carried its message to many parts of the world ... as well as out of this world. I can remember clearly the picture I saw on television the night Neil Armstrong placed the flag on the moon, and I still remember how proud I was of our nation, and of our accomplishments, that evening.

Historically, there have been times when a flag that was flown at a crucial moment in history, has been flown in another place to symbolize continuity in our country's struggle for the causes of liberty. One of the most unforgettable is the one President Roosevelt called the "flag of liberation." This particular flag was flown over the US Capitol on December 7, 1941, when Pearl Harbor was attacked. The same flag was flown again on December 8 when we declared war on Japan, and once more three days later when the US declared war against Germany and Italy.

As we approach this Flag Day, June 14, I can't help but think of a few other flags that would qualify as symbols of our nation's struggle. Many of us have seen, and been moved by, the pictures of the flag that was placed on the scene of "Ground Zero" in New York City. In addition to that, the flag at the Pentagon and the flag in Pennsylvania to memorialize those that died there, will also have a special place in the hearts of Americans. Under the auspices of one of our nation's most visible and most popular icons, the people of this country came together. We paid our respects at the site in Pennsylvania, we are repairing the Pentagon, and we completed our clean-up efforts in New York. During all this, we regrouped and regained our feet, with a new, fortified resolve, to overcome this blow, and retaliate--as we are doing in this war against terrorism.

This Flag Day, I anticipate seeing many more flags flying over buildings, in people's yards, and as bumper stickers on people's cars. This enduring symbol of our nation reflects the spirits and attitudes of Americans. Like the flag, we too have endured, and have raised ourselves to stand tall, as we continue to fly in the face of adversity.

Rep. James Sensenbrenner, a Republican from Wisconsin, is chairman of the House Committee on the Judiciary.