Surprise the patriot in your life with a flag that has flown over the United States Capitol. The American flag, or Old Glory, has a rich history that has evolved to include 50 stars and 13 horizontal stripes. The white stars, which rest against a blue background, represent the country's 50 states, while the red and white stripes harken back to the original 13 colonies. Your flag, which can be flown on a specific day, will include a certificate of authenticity.

Visit the website for the U.S. House of Representatives or the U.S. Senate; your senator or representative must make the flag request to the Architect of the Capitol for you. Search the website's directory to find an official from your state. Click on the official's name to go to her web page.

Click on "Constituent Services" to find a "Flag Request" form. If you don't see this option, search your state official's web page for the phrase "Flag Request." If you still can't find a request form, your senator or representative may not offer this form online. Contact his office to request a form.

Follow the application's instructions. Each official has her own form and set of instructions for submitting a flag request and payment. For example, you may be able to apply and pay online or your representative may require you to fill out the form and mail it in with the appropriate fee.