The flag of the United States is much more than just red, white and blue strands of cloth sewn together. It is the most recognizable symbol of democracy on the face of the Earth. It represents our country and our way of life.
This symbol of freedom should not be subject to violent acts of abuse and humiliation. Our flag is special and is worthy of constitutional protection.
If individuals or groups wish to protest the actions or policies of the U.S. government, that is their undeniable right–a right that I and millions of other servicemen and women have fought to protect. I’ll defend anyone’s right to think, voice or print any criticism of our flag, government or leaders.
But when someone burns, stomps or physically desecrates the flag–it’s a violent act. It’s no longer freedom of speech or expression–it’s a violent act against the flag and everything it stands for. That’s the difference that Clarence Page (Op-Ed, June 14) and others fail to recognize.
Count me among the American citizens who are dismayed and outraged that our national symbol can be physically tarnished. Polls show that 80 percent of Americans support the Flag Protection Amendment now under consideration in Washington. Forty-nine state legislatures, including the Illinois General Assembly, have passed resolutions calling on Congress to protect the flag from desecration.
We recognize that throughout America’s history, men and women have laid their lives on the line to protect America and its flag. If the flag is sacred enough to die for, then it is sacred enough to be spared from desecration.
