The Department of the Navy was formed in 1798 by Congress.
The Navy has been around for quite a long time, and there is a lot of history to the Navy itself. One unique part of its history is the U.S. Navy flag.
Ready to learn more about the flag itself—its history and significance?
Keep reading to learn more!
The History of the U.S. Navy Flag
The United States Navy flag is actually more of a recent development. The Navy was around much longer than the flag has been.
An executive order by President Eisenhower created the flag in 1959. The flag itself is extremely similar to other flags of the U.S. Armed Forces. This is because it showcases the Department of the Navy seal on it, which is outlined by gold fringe.
In addition to the creation of the flag, the U.S. Navy Flag also has official streamers. These streamers can hang with the flag to represent a specific ship or a unit’s achievements.
What Happened Before the Flag?
Before the Navy flag was an official entity, the U.S. flew the infantry battalion flag. This was an unofficial flag of the Navy starting in 1864.
On this flag, there was an anchor with a cable wound around itself. The fouled anchor represented the challenges and obstacles that the Navy had to overcome in order to fight for the country.
Significance of the Flag
So why is the flag so important?
The flag bears the official seal of the Department of the Navy.
The seal displays an American bald eagle with its wings spread, resting on an anchor. There is a tri-mast ship on the flag as well; one with the National Ensign, and one with the commodore’s flag.
The flag represents the Navy’s continuous fight for our country’s freedom since it first started in the 1700s. It is a testament to the willpower of those who serve in the Navy.
The U.S. Navy Flag Today
Since the United States officially adopted the flag in 1959, the flag itself hasn’t changed. It features the same design that it did when commissioned in the 1950s.
However, it’s important to note that the U.S. Navy flag is not displayed on ships at sea. It is only flown on land. The reason behind this is not anything against the flag or the country.
Rather, not flying the flag at sea actually limits the wear and tear that the flag could face from the wind and inclement weather.
The U.S. Navy Flag
The Navy flag has been around for hundreds of years and carries with it a huge significance.
It is something to be treasured fully as part of the history of this country.
Do you want to learn more about the U.S. Navy and everything that it stands for (and its history)? You can learn more about the U.S. Navy on our website