The flag is the symbol of our national unity,our national endeavor, our national aspiration. The flag tells of the struggle for independence, of union preserved, of liberty andunion one and inseparable, of the sacrifices ofbrave men and women to whom the idealsand honor of this nation have been dearerthan life. It means America first; it means an undivided allegiance. It means America united, strong and efficient, equal to her tasks. It means that you cannot be saved by thevalor and devotion of your ancestors, that toeach generation comes its patriotic duty; andthat upon your willingness to sacrifice andendure as those before you have sacrificedand endured rests the national hope. It speaks of equal rights, of the inspirationof free institutions exemplified and vindicated, of liberty under law intelligently conceived and impartially administrated. Thereis not a thread in it but scorns self-indulgence, weakness, and rapacity. It is eloquent of our community interests,outweighing all divergencies of opinion, andof our common destiny.

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