This June 14, 2026, the Democrats Abroad Global Veterans and Military Families (VMF) Caucus proudly recognizes both Flag Day and the United States Army’s 251st birthday.
“On June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress approved the design of a national flag. Since 1916, when President Woodrow Wilson issued a presidential proclamation establishing a national Flag Day on June 14, Americans have commemorated the adoption of the Stars and Stripes in many ways–displaying the flag in the front of their homes, parades, and other patriotic observances. Prior to 1916, many localities and a few states had been celebrating the day for years. Congressional legislation designating that date as the national Flag Day was signed into law by President Harry Truman in 1949; the legislation also called upon the president to issue a Flag Day proclamation every year.”
In 2013, in President Barack Obama’s greeting message from the White House, he stated,
“Exemplifying a spirit of sacrifice that spans more than two centuries of American history, today's members of the United States Army are dedicated to our ongoing operations to promote freedom around the world and protect the land we love. I am inspired by our soldiers and their extraordinary families who serve alongside them.”
President Obama’s words are always an inspiration to us, and we’re grateful for his eight years of leadership followed by President Biden’s compassion and caring for our service members and their families. VMF encourages all Americans residing abroad to participate in Flag Day and to feel free to tag us on social media, especially for our members in photos with Old Glory.
From the infantry soldier to the postal clerk to the chow hall cook, the VMF Caucus is extremely appreciative of the service by all those in the U.S. Army including those stationed in South Korea, Germany, and elsewhere around the world. The Army has more than earned a peaceful moment of birthday celebrations.
VMF Caucus members Greg Cromwell (Austria) and J. David Markham (Canada) – both U.S. Army veterans – add some of their own special commentary in honor of this special day.
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U.S. citizens living abroad, both civilian and military, are highly encouraged to check your voter registration status and request your ballot for any upcoming elections in your home voting state that you are eligible to vote in.
The VMF Caucus has a membership of over 1,400 members located in dozens of countries and proudly consists of veterans, service members, military family members, Department of Defense civilians, other national security professionals, and strong allies of veterans and military family causes.
For questions pertaining to this statement, please reach out to