MOUNT VERNON — An American flag waving in the breeze is an iconic image to any patriot, and it evokes pride in the nation it has now flown over for 235 years. When first designed in 1777, with its 13 red and white stripes and 13 white stars on a blue union for each of the 13 colonies, the flag was a symbol of hope. It represented a new nation that existed only on paper and was still being forged on the battlefield.
More than two centuries and 37 stars later, the American flag has seen hardship and threats, prosperity and victory. It has seen the adoption of the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights, the most influential documents in the annals of freedom.
Thursday, it waved throughout the 50 states and in Mount Vernon as ceremonies were held to commemorate Flag Day. The Exchange Club of Mount Vernon and Knox County organized its traditional Proudly We Hail gathering on the town square, and recognized a number of individuals and companies for their patriotic flag displays.
The ceremonies were held at the Knox County Veterans Walk of Honor, with Lt. Col. Robert Burelli (Army-Retired) as the featured speaker.

