Past National Commander David K. Rehbein calls it an honor on behalf of “every American who has served under that flag.”
American Legion Past National Commander David K. Rehbein took the stage at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines Thursday, July 3, to lead thousands in the Pledge of Allegiance in advance of President Donald J. Trump’s remarks to officially kick off a year of celebration for the 250th anniversary of America’s independence.
Rehbein, a U.S. Army veteran who led The American Legion as national commander in 2008 and 2009, called it an honor to lead the pledge at the America250 kick-off celebration, on behalf of all who have served in uniform.
“The U.S. flag has flown over this country since Betsy Ross sewed that first design in 1776,” Rehbein said prior to the event. “To be chosen to be the veteran that leads the Pledge of Allegiance as we begin celebrating America’s 250th birthday, it is my honor to stand and lead that Pledge, in honor of every American who has served under that flag in those 250 years. I am simply the next in a long, long line of Americans who honor that flag.”
The national event was billed by America250 as “a monumental celebration … offering patriotism, excitement, inspiration, and a glimpse into the grand festivities planned for America’s 250th anniversary.
“This momentous gathering in the heartland signals the beginning of an extraordinary year ahead – one where America250 will unite our nation through events in every state and territory, culminating in the most monumental celebration our country has ever known.”
The American Legion’s ad hoc committee on the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary is encouraging posts and departments everywhere to connect with their state and territorial America250 commissions in their semiquincentennial planning.
- USA250