06/12/2026
🇺🇸 Every June 14th, we celebrate the Stars and Stripes on Flag Day — and this year feels extra special as America prepares for its 250th anniversary in 2026. It’s a perfect moment to reflect on the history and meaning behind our flag as we approach this milestone celebration.
Here are a few fun facts about the flag you might not know:
🔹 The current 50-star design was created by a 17-year-old. Robert G. Heft of Lancaster, Ohio, submitted the design as a high school project in 1958. President Eisenhower selected it from more than 3,000 submissions in 1960.
🔹 There have been 27 official versions of the flag. Most changes were made to update the number of stars as new states joined the Union — each addition taking effect on July 4th.
🔹 The colors of the flag carry meaningful symbolism. In 1774, Charles Thomson of the Continental Congress described red as hardiness and valor, white as purity and innocence, and blue as vigilance, perseverance, and justice.
🔹 Six American flags have been planted on the moon. Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin were the first, followed by five additional Apollo missions.
🔹 Our current design is the longest-running version in U.S. history. With no new states since Hawaii in 1959, it has remained unchanged for more than six decades.
As we look ahead to America’s 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026, we’re proud to celebrate the rich history and enduring spirit represented by the flag we share. In honor of the coming celebration, our Lancaster office is displaying a 250 Years USA flag with accompanying red, white (silver) and blue (purple) flowers. Wishing you a wonderful Flag Day from all of us at GMS Insurance! ❤️🤍💙