WINDHAM – To kick off Windham Summerfest 2012, a program titled “One Nation Under God” will explore the history of the American flag through all its iterations.

The program is hosted by Windham Historical Society, emceed by member Bill Crane, and takes place Friday, June 22, at 7 p.m at the Windham High School auditorium.

The historical society is providing free tickets (by prior reservation) to all who ask. There will also be a free raffle of a 4-by-6-foot American flag, which was donated by Maine Flag & Banner of Windham.

The program is produced by Woody and Jean Miller, a husband-and-wife team who are traveling hundreds of miles to Windham, gratis, to present the pageant. Since its conception, the couple has performed the patriotic pageant throughout the country at public schools, campgrounds, state and national conventions, churches, Veterans Administration hospitals and community functions of all types – more than 200 performances in all.

When the Windham Historical Society learned of the availability of the flag program, members felt it would be appropriate during this 275th town anniversary year and an opportunity to honor those serving, and who have served, in the military.

The third-grade chorus of Windham Primary School will open the program. Children will sing the Windham birthday song, originally written for the 250th celebration by Rick Charette, who has “tweaked” the tune for the 275th birthday. The children will also perform other patriotic songs.

The pageant, backed by video, music and costumes, is the story of the development of the United States and the flag. As the story unfolds, more than three-dozen residents in period dress will present the flags that have flown over every significant event of the nation’s history.

Tickets are available via info@windhamhistorical.org, by calling 892-1433 and leaving a message or email: kso48@aol.com.

Last year’s Windham Summerfest Parade was a definite crowd pleaser with numerous entries. This year is sizing up to be no exception. Here, the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard performs spectacular maneuvers while marching along last year’s parade route.