HONOLULU, HAWAIʻI – June 14, 2025 — On this Flag Day, The American Legion proudly joined fellow citizens, veterans service organizations, youth groups and patriotic partners to honor the enduring symbol of our freedom, unity and resilience - the American flag. Held at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol Rotunda, this annual celebration also marked the 250th birthday of the United States Army.
For generations, the American flag has stood not only as a national emblem, but also as a beacon of hope and a tribute to those who have served and continue to serve in our Armed Forces. From the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and Air Force to the Space Force the flag represents the unwavering commitment to defend our nation’s liberty and uphold its values. It flies high both on the battlefield and in our neighborhoods, from sea to shining sea, and as far as the moon - and one day, Mars.
The event was a heartfelt tribute, reminding all in attendance of the meaning behind our flag and the values it represents: liberty, justice, service and sacrifice. The American Legion encouraged all Americans to take pride in the flag, to honor those who protect it and to reflect on what it symbolizes - especially on this dual occasion of Flag Day and the Army’s historic milestone.
Among those representing the American Legion Family were Irene DeVirgilio (American Legion Auxiliary president, Hawaiʻi), Mark DeVirgilio (American Legion department commander, Hawaiʻi), Todd Wilson (Post 11 commander), and from Post 17, Art Tulak, John DiGiovanni and CR Drumheller. They stood united with representatives from numerous VSOs, JROTC and Civil Air Patrol cadets, Pyramid Rock Young Marines, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and the Hawaiʻi Semiquincentennial Commission.
The highlight of the day was the Massing of the Colors - now in its 103rd year - an inspiring tradition where color guards from diverse military and civic organizations present their flags in a unified display of patriotism. Originating in 1922 and carried forward by the Military Order of the World Wars since 1929, the ceremony continues to celebrate the synergy between military service and the civilian community’s dedication to national ideals.
The program featured powerful remarks from Hawaii State Rep. Diamond Garcia (District 42), who spoke of the historical and cultural strength embedded in our national flag. Brig. Gen. Walter Ross Jr., Joint Staff Operations of the Hawaiʻi National Guard, delivered the keynote address, reflecting on the growth, challenges and legacy of our military and the deep symbolism of our national colors.
In a celebratory moment, Ross was joined by a newly accepted West Point-bound JROTC cadet to cut a large birthday cake commemorating the Army’s 250 years of service to the nation.
The 25th Infantry Division Band performed stirring patriotic selections, including the national anthem and Hawaiʻi Pono‘i, which echoed throughout the Capitol Rotunda and uplifted the crowd.
The event was co-hosted with proud participation from Hawaiʻi 250th partners including:
Sons of the American Revolution
Daughters of the American Revolution
Military Order of Foreign Wars
Military Order of the World Wars
AMVETS Department of Hawaiʻi
Elks Lodge 616
American Legion Post No. 4 (Hilo)
National Society Colonial Dames of America
American Legion “Kau Tom” Post 11
American Legion “John R. Rowe” Post 17
Military Officers Association of America
Marine Corps League Detachment 363
U.S. Army Pacific
VFW Post 10276
Oʻahu Veterans Council
Hawaiʻi Chapter, Association of the U.S. Army
Special Forces Association
This day served as a powerful reminder of the living legacy carried by our nation’s flag and the people who defend it. The American Legion and its partners remain committed to preserving this legacy and educating future generations about the flag’s meaning, history and the ideals it represents.
As we honor the past and look to the future, may the American flag continue to inspire unity, pride and service in every heart across these United States.
For more information on American Legion Post 17’s upcoming patriotic events or how to get involved, please contact CR Drumheller, American Legion Post 17, 612 McCully Street, Honolulu HI 96826, (808) 946-6383 or visit American Legion Department of Hawaii website https://hilegion.org/ or Post 17’s Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/John-R-Rowe-Post-17-Honolulu-Hawaii-25545263782....
