A Thursday ceremony in New Iberia saluted the U.S. flag and veterans who fought in any American war.

Veterans and members of the community gathered to celebrate Flag Day at Bouligny Plaza despite questionable weather.

“We are here to celebrate our freedom and honor those serving and protecting our soldiers,” said Iberia Parish Councilman Caesar Comeaux, who was in the U.S. Marine Corps.

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The event, led by Deacon George H. Sikes, Spec. 4, of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, offered prayers and benedictions to those who have served and are serving the United States.

“God bless the veterans,” said Sgt. Chad Courtois, U.S. Marine Corps. “This is what they’re about.”

Flag Day dates back to 1885, when a Wisconsin school teacher arranged for his students to celebrate June 14 as “flag birthday.” The day itself marks the anniversary of the Flag Resolution of 1777. A year prior to the resolution, George Washington, Robert Morris and George Ross approached Betsy Ross about sewing a flag, a legend states. The story was first told by Betsy Ross’ grandson after the Civil War.

Following the first Flag Day, a number of places on the East Coast began adopting the day representing the stars and strips. In 1893, the Society of Colonial Dames of America was able to pass a resolution in Philadelphia stating that citizens should display flags in their windows to commemorate the historic event.

A year later, the governor of New York said the flag should also be displayed in all public buildings. Following about 30 years of trends such as these, Flag Day was made a national holiday on May 30, 1916, under President Woodrow Wilson.

Local veterans honored the flag with a rifle salute as well as playing a number of patriotic melodies. The day also marked another historic date. June 14 also marks the 232nd anniversary of the U.S. Army.

“We’re faithful attendees,” said Anna Mae Dugas of Loreauville.

Her husband, Homer Dugas, received his Purple Heart in World War II. Dugas was injured while island hopping in the Pacific.

“The rain was coming, and people still came,” she said of Thursday’s event. “It is just so nice ... all these people came out and gave us a history.”

Zack Young of New Iberia brought his flag collection of early U.S. flags for the public to view after the ceremony. During the event, many who attended were provided with a miniature flag, and some received the shell of one of the casings fired during the salute.