The Impressively Simple Uniform of Team USA

by adam wojcik

The American Flag is an incredible symbol of freedom and hope.  It represents the spirit of our nation and the sacrifice it took to build this perfect union.

Frank Abagnale Sr.: You know why the Yankees always win, Frank?

Frank Abagnale Jr.: ‘Cause they have Mickey Mantle?

Frank Abagnale Sr.: No, it’s ’cause the other teams can’t stop staring at those damn pinstripes.

Uniforms matter.  They bond teammates and demonstrate solidarity.  The logos and symbols and colors that represent groups, clubs, families, schools, organizations, and military units help to generate pride of association and commitment to shared values and goals.  Like Mr. Abagnale noted in the movie Catch Me If You Can, opponents and fans are awestruck when team branding is done right and consistently.

Consider the power projected by a perfectly synchronized unit of Marines, in their signature full-dress uniforms, presenting arms.  Picture a crazy stadium of baseball fans, all sporting their team colors.  No golf fan misunderstands the prestige of a group of men wearing green jackets after the Masters.  Similarly, we universally understand the selfless role and responsibilities of a Salvation Army bell ringer in front of a store at Christmas.  The site of fully outfitted firefighters rushing towards a fire inspires confidence.  Each year, Girl Scouts in patch-covered vests dragging wagons of cookies trigger a series of reflexes that result in us reaching for our wallets and crying, “three boxes of Thin Mints, please!”

The point is, we are conditioned by uniformity.  This summer, as we celebrate Memorial Day, and Flag Day, and Independence Day, dress your home in America’s colors . . . red, white, and blue.  Fly the flag and identify yourself with the values, traditions, and freedoms that it represents.  It’s a wonderful symbol, a simple symbol, that unites us and leaves outsiders staring in awe!

Fly the Flag!

There’s a lot going on in our world and in our country.  With focus, determination, and lots of hard work, I trust that strong leaders will help make our world a better place.  In the meantime, let’s all do our part and proudly fly the American flag.  The power and talent of the Yankees was unmistakable in the mind of Frank Abagnale Sr.   Our stars and stripes serve the same purpose to the world who looks to the United States for hope, direction, and leadership.  God Bless America.

See the dos and don’ts of flag flying here.