Patriotism

You have taken something of America with you.

And I call upon my fellow citizens not only to display the flag of the United States on Armed Forces Day, in manifestation of their recognition of the sacrifice and devotion to duty of the members of the armed forces, but also to avail…

Whatever you do, every talent you have will be at work for the good of America.

I urge all of our people to observe the day by flying the Stars and Stripes at their homes or other suitable places and by participating in ceremonies especially designed to honor the flag of the United States.

I also urge Federal, State and local officials, as well as religious, civic, patriotic, educational, and other organizations, to arrange for appropriate ceremonies on Citizenship Day, in schools and churches and other appropriate places…

I believe that the greatest honor, the greatest distinction, that can come to any American is to feel that in his own niche he has been of service to the United States of America.

I also call upon the people of the Nation to give public and private expression to the esteem in which our country holds its mothers, through the display of the flag at their homes and other suitable places, through prayers at their places…

So far as I am concerned that is the philosophy that should guide the American of every calling, no matter what it is--to place the long-term good of America, all America, above any immediate and selfish reason.

No matter what part of the country a serviceman comes from, no matter what his race or religion, he wants to feel confident that what he is doing is important to other human beings, and that they are grateful for it.

You are given that most priceless of opportunities: to work directly and specifically for the welfare of the United States of America, and there is no greater honor that is achievable by any American.

I urge the people of the nation to display the flag on that day at their homes and other suitable places.

This is your country as well as mine.

There is nothing more constructive that young women in the United States can do for themselves and for their country than answer the call to service with our Armed Forces.

And I want to say to you that it gives me pleasure, and I feel highly honored that General Collins would ask me to appear before his organization, just to congratulate you on your career, on your patriotism, and on the good that you have…

That is the reason this Republic of ours will continue to endure--because we have innumerable young men just like these four, who stand out for the welfare of this country, always.

The task which you are undertaking is of major importance to this country.

Now, Therefore, I, Harry S. Truman, President of the United States of America, do hereby ask that on Flag Day, June 14, 1949, the people of the Nation honor our colors by displaying them at their homes or other suitable places and by…

I also direct the appropriate officials of the Government to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on Flag Day.