The Flag Sojourn 250 campaign is sending a single American flag on a multiyear journey to every U.S. state and territory, as well as to overseas American military cemeteries, before it returns to Washington, D.C., for the nation’s semiquincentennial on July 4, 2026.
The project is led by the National Flag Foundation in partnership with America250, the congressionally designated effort planning the 250th anniversary.
Monday’s event marked the flag’s only stop in Mississippi. Gov. Tate Reeves told a crowd gathered outside the Governor’s mansion that the ceremony was meant to highlight the state’s place in the broader American story.
“Our state has contributed soldiers, leaders, artists, scientists, athletes, and everyday citizens who built communities, strengthened our nation, and carry the ideals of freedom and opportunity forward,” Reeves said.
The flag has already flown roughly 40,000 miles visiting American military cemeteries in 10 countries. From there, it began touring governors’ mansions, courthouses and community landmarks across the United States
Mississippi first lady Elee Reeves, who co-chairs the America250 Mississippi Commission, told attendees the flag’s pilgrimage was designed to prompt families to talk with their children about what the symbol represents.
“For nearly 250 years, the American flag has been a source of comfort in times of grief, unity in times of uncertainty, and pride during moments of great national joy,” Reeves said.
The ceremony included a flag raising by the Mississippi Air National Guard’s 172nd Airlift Wing. First Lt. Harrison Matheny, a public affairs officer with the Mississippi Air National Guard, said being part of the ceremony carried special meaning for the Guard members.
“The Mississippi Air National Guard has both national and state missions, and so today is a great example of us supporting both.”
Matheny called the American flag “a symbol of hope for the oppressed around the world” and “a symbol of pride for everyone who lives under its shadow,” and said ceremonies like Monday’s offer an opportunity to reflect on “the people that it represents and protects.”
From Mississippi, the flag will travel next to Arkansas.
