Senator George Rauscher

Today we celebrate Flag Day, honoring the symbol that has represented our nation’s strength, unity, and freedom.

On June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress passed a resolution declaring that “the flag of the United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.” From those original thirteen colonies to the fifty states we know today, the American flag has stood as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made to build and defend this nation.

Flag Day represents the courage of those who have served, the determination of those who came before us, and the hope we carry forward.

Today, we honor the flag not just as a symbol, but as a living reminder of who we are as Americans.

May we always stand united under its colors.

I had a wonderful time visiting the City of Valdez to celebrate their 125th anniversary. It was truly an honor to take part in such a meaningful milestone and to present a legislative citation recognizing the community’s rich history and enduring resilience. With hundreds in attendance, I am deeply grateful to everyone who worked so hard to make this celebration possible.

One of the highlights on Friday was the dedication of the Valdez Container Terminal, now named in honor of Ryan Sontag. I’m pictured with his son, Brad Sontag, a moment that was especially meaningful for many in attendance.

While there, I also had the opportunity to participate in a TAPS tour, including a stop at Milepost 800. We learned more about safety, operations, and the movement of oil through the pipeline for both import to the terminal and export via large ships. Standing at the 800-mile mark, overlooking the terminal and tank farm, offered a powerful perspective on the scale and significance of the work taking place each day.

My sincere thanks to Mike Day, Diana Bouchard, and Suzanne Cunningham for providing such an informative tour.

Together, these experiences showcase Valdez’s vital role in Alaska’s history, economy, and future.

Yesterday, the Big Lake Community came together to mark the 30th Anniversary Commemoration of the Miller’s Reach Wildfire at the Big Lake Lions Recreation Center. The event recognized those impacted, celebrated the resilience of our community, and highlighted the progress made in wildfire prevention, preparedness, and recovery over the past 30 years. It also featured educational presentations, interactive discussions, and displays with historical photos and safety resources, all aimed at strengthening awareness and readiness for the future.

Additionally, I had the opportunity that same day to attend the City of Houston’s 60th Anniversary of its incorporation. The celebration included remarks from Senators Murkowski and Sullivan, Representative McCabe, Mayor Edna DeVries, Todd Smoldon representing Governor Dunleavy, and other community leaders. I was also honored to present the City of Houston with a legislative citation commemorating this milestone anniversary.

It was a day that highlighted both the resilience of our communities and the importance of continuing to work together for a stronger future.