Flag Day, June 14, 2026, marks the 249th anniversary of the United States flag.
In honor of Flag Day, the Wescott Public Library hosted a community celebration on Friday, June 12.
Dakota County Commissioner Laurie Halverson opened the event following an Honor Guard flag presentation.
Dakota County Director of Veteran Services Lisa Thomas highlighted several key resources available to veterans, including Dakota County Veteran Services, the Twin Cities Vet Center, and Eagan Beyond the Yellow Ribbon.
While preparing for Flag Day, Thomas also discovered that June 12, 2026, was officially recognized as Women Veterans Recognition Day. She reflected on her own 28 years of service in
the Army National Guard and Air Force Reserve.
Thomas also pointed to a local milestone in veteran support, the Veterans Village in Eagan. Located on the grounds of Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, it provides housing for veterans and families experiencing homelessness.
She emphasized both the importance of available services and continued recognition of those who have served.
Veteran Service Officer Joel Hendrickson also spoke at the event, sharing the meaning behind three American flags displayed for attendees.
One was flown over the U.S. Capitol in 1969, representing national service and honor.
Another was presented to a family in remembrance of a sailor lost in the sinking of the USS Indianapolis, symbolizing sacrifice in World War II.
The third was Hendrickson’s own Army flag, carried during his service from 1998 to 2004, including deployments and training missions.
Hendrickson noted that together, the three flags tell a story of duty, sacrifice, and pride in serving the United States.
After the Flag Day event, KDWA connected with Hendrickson.
About the recognition of the American flag, Hendrickson would like the public to remember this.
(Actuality 1)
The event also featured live music by Charlie Maguire, providing a fitting close to a Flag Day celebration honoring service, history, and our nation.
(Actuality 2)
[Click the soundbite to listen to the report.]