If you were out and about on Veterans Day, it was impossible to miss the red, white and blue flying high. The American flag has come a long way from since July 4, 1776, when – as legend has it – Betsy Ross sewed the first American flag, with 13 stars to represent the 13 colonies.

Despite changes to the flag over the years, one thing has remained constant – it has endured as a symbol of patriotism. It’s something that is not lost on the nation’s veterans, including the Catholic War Veterans of America. The group, which has posts across the country, was founded here in the Brooklyn Diocese, at Immaculate Conception Parish in Astoria, Queens, back in 1935.

Since then, it has grown into a nationwide organization, while remaining a vibrant part of Immaculate Conception. And yesterday, the parish dedicated three flags donated by the Catholic Vets to all the veterans who have worshipped at Immaculate Conception throughout the years.