2023 US Flag Stamps

Why the stamp was issued:  To continue the near-annual tradition of picturing the American flag on a stamp.

About the stamp design:  Pictures a graphic design of Old Glory created by artist Hong Li.  Beneath the flag is the word “FREEDOM” in gray.

First Day City:  No official First Day of Issue Ceremony, but all of the 2023 US Flag stamps were issued in Freedom, Maine on April 10^th.

History the stamp represents:  Did you know the first official policy for the flying of the American flag at half-mast was passed on March 1, 1954?  On that day, President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed:

“WHEREAS it is appropriate that the flag of the United States of America be flown at half-staff on Federal buildings, grounds, and facilities upon the death of principal officials and former officials of the Government of the United States and the Governors of the States, Territories, and possessions of the United States as a mark of respect to their memory…”

Today, there are many other reasons.  For example, in 2020, President Donald Trump ordered the flag to fly at half-mast in remembrance of the American citizens who had died from COVID-19 up to that point.  President Trump said, “Our Nation mourns for every life lost to the coronavirus pandemic, and we share in the suffering of all those who endured pain and illness from the outbreak.  Through our grief, America stands steadfast and united against the invisible enemy.  May God be with the victims of this pandemic and bring aid and comfort to their families and friends.”

No matter the reason, when the US flag flies at half-mast, it makes us all stop and take notice.  It’s a reminder that, come what may, we all stand together as fellow Americans.