The history of National Flag Day dates back to 1916 when a proclamation was made by President Woodrow Wilson, that stated June 14 be established as official Flag Day in the United States of America.  Then on August 3rd, 1949, as part of an Act of Congress, National Flag Day was made permanent.

Flags are flown, displayed, and celebrated for many reasons.  Many have a variety of symbolic purposes.  For the longest time, I did not equate the Van Halen album title of “Diver Down”, with the album artwork.

Warner Bros
Warner Bros
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The album cover depicts the red flag (or symbol) with a white diagonal stripe that is used on the water to indicate a diver is currently below the surface of the water.  It is very possible you might spot one of those signs on our local waters.

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no swimming
Mark Wilson/Getty Images
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On land, our lifeguards fly flags on our beaches for a much different reason.  These demonstrators are to alert you as to the conditions in the water we are about to swim.  These indicators are not just connected to Jersey.  These warnings are universal.

The single red flag depicts a “High Hazard”.  This could be connected to rough surf or strong rip tides.

Rich DeSisto
Rich DeSisto
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A solid yellow flag is to alert you of a “Medium Hazard”.  Usually, meaning a moderate surf or rip current.

Rich DeSisto
Rich DeSisto
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The all-green flag indicates a “Low hazard” area.  This is the reflection of calm conditions.

Rich DeSisto
Rich DeSisto
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And the purple flag is flown, to tell you there is “Dangerous Marine Life” in the water.  This could include but not limited to jellyfish or stingrays depending on the environment.

Rich DeSisto
Rich DeSisto
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As we head into more beach days ahead at the Jersey Shore, the only flag I want to see is this one.

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash
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