HomeMy WebLinkAbout20260914 Star Spangled Banner Day
RECOGNIZING SEPTEMBER 14, 2026, AS STAR-SPANGLED BANNER DAY
WHEREAS, September 14, 2026, marks the 212th anniversary of the writing of The Star-Spangled
Banner by Francis Scott Key, a defining moment in the War of 1812, America’s second and final war
for independence; and
WHEREAS, On March 3, 1931, Key’s immortal words were officially declared the National
Anthem of the United States of America when President Herbert Hoover signed Public Law 823; and
WHEREAS, it was the sight of the large 30x42 foot Star-Spangled Banner flag waving over Fort
McHenry that directly inspired Francis Scott Key to compose the words of that Anthem; and
WHEREAS, the National Anthem and the American flag have evolved to become the strongest
symbols of the spirit and resolve of the American people over the last 200 plus years; and
WHEREAS, The National Society United States Daughters of Eighteen Hundred and Twelve and
the Ezra Benedict Kellog Chapter calls for a day to observe the historical significance of The Star-
Spangled Banner and to celebrate the words that Francis Scott Key penned in 1814.
NOW, THEREFORE I, Vicki Veenker, Mayor of the City of Palo Alto, on behalf of the entire City
Council, do hereby proclaim September 14, 2026 as Star-Spangled Banner Day and encourage all
citizens to recognize and celebrate the anniversary of the birth of our country’s National Anthem.
Presented: September 14, 2026
______________________________
Vicki Veenker
Mayor
Proclamation