BAY MINETTE, Ala. — North Baldwin veterans chose Flag Day as an opportunity to remember national history and to recall past service and fallen friends during a ceremony on Tuesday.

The Heroes of ‘76 of the National Sojourners Inc., a masonic order, gave an American-flag presentation on the history and progression of the federal icon.

Members explained how stars and stripes were added to the flag as additional states joined the Union. The group also explained Betsy Ross' original design of the 13-colony flag.

William F. Green has approximately 150 residents, according to Veterans Home Activities Director Shelly Bates. Some 25 of those residents attended Tuesday’s ceremony.

She explained during the presentation that residents appreciate such ceremonies and that the event has been held at least the five years that she has been employed at the facility.

“It’s very important to our veterans because of their patriotism,” Bates said.

World War II veteran Jack Todd recalled why such remembrances are important to him.

“(The flag represents) what this nation was founded on,” he said during the event. “It’s important to pass it on to future generations. We must teach younger people about what’s happening in this nation — or we’re doomed.”

Edward Haynes, an Army veteran of the Vietnam War, said he remembers soldiers of the past during the Flag Day ceremony.

“The flag is a symbol of our country and the men that fought and died behind it,” he said. “From the War of 1812, the Civil War, (the Battle of) San Juan Hill, World War I and World War II actually saved the world from tyranny, the Korean War. … When I think of the flag, I think of the rings that raised the flag at Iwo Jima. In Vietnam, we fought under the American flag. … The real heroes of Vietnam are the dead. When I see the flag, I stand in awe and respect of it, whether it’s at the post office, a school or in front of this building.”