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St. Mary’s County marks 40th annual Flag Day; 1,919 worn flags to be retired
Summary
Commissioners, state lawmakers and community groups gathered in Leonardtown on June 14, 2026, for the 40th annual St. Mary’s County Flag Day ceremony, citing civic tradition, presenting proclamations and announcing that American Legion Post 221 will retire 1,919 donated flags.
The commissioners of Saint Mary’s County hosted the 40th annual Flag Day ceremony on June 14, 2026, bringing together veterans, active-duty service members, first responders and community volunteers for a program of prayers, historical presentations, citations and a planned flag retirement.
Commissioner Randy opened the indoor program, saying the community has gathered for four decades "to honor the American flag and the values it represents, unity, service, sacrifice, and freedom." The event included an invocation by Reverend Bantkus, musical performances by students from Father Andrew White School and remarks from state lawmakers.
Why it matters: The ceremony reiterated local commitments to honoring veterans and civic service ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary. County leaders used the observance to recognize volunteer groups and to announce a ceremonial retirement of worn flags collected from across the county.
Senator Jack Bailey presented a senatorial citation commending the commissioners and volunteers. "We commend your unwavering leadership in Saint Mary's County," he said. A member of the St. Mary’s delegation read a Maryland General Assembly citation offering congratulations on the 40th annual observance.
Delegate Todd Morgan encouraged civic participation, urging residents to take advantage of early voting: "I encourage you to get out and vote if you could along the way," he said. Delegate Matt Morgan praised local volunteers and community festivals as examples of 'Americana' that showcase the county’s character.
Vice President Commissioner Scott Osroff Ford read a proclamation dated June 14, 2026, recognizing the Flag Day celebration and asking residents to reflect on the flag’s history, including the Continental Congress action in 1777 that established the stars-and-stripes design.
Commissioner Randy announced that American Legion Post 221 will ceremonially retire 1,919 worn and unserviceable flags outside after the program, noting the coincidental link to the American Legion’s founding year: "This year, members of the American Legion Post 221 will ceremonially retire 1,919 donated flags with the dignity, honor, and respect they deserve." The proclamation signed by the commissioners formalized the county’s recognition of the milestone.
The program credited Elks Lodge 2092, Father Andrew White School, local Boy Scout troops and the Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad for their roles in the event. The indoor service closed with a benediction by Reverend Bantkus, who asked the community to carry forward an appreciation of shared history and service. The flag retirement ceremony was held outdoors by American Legion Post 221 immediately following the indoor program.
Details: The ceremony included a historical narrative about early American flags and the 1818 congressional provision fixing thirteen stripes, musical tributes and readings of citations from both the Maryland Senate and the Maryland General Assembly. The commissioners encouraged attendees to visit local museums and historic sites as part of the county’s commemorations of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
