Dissent Misdirected
By hw dix

To those that purposely show indifference or disrespect for our flag, I pose
these questions: Who and what does our flag represent? Does our flag deserve
our respect or is it  merely a piece of  worthless cloth that can be
recklessly spoiled, or discarded? The most frequent answer to my questions
is that the flag is the symbol of our country. Some say the flag is
America's rallying point,  a reference for all generations of courage and
honor. Others say that our flag is the culmination of all our honored dead
and represents the multitudes of selfless patriots that have shed their
blood in defense of  freedom.. I would be interested in the answers from
those who turn their back (or defend such actions)  on the flag during the
playing of our National Anthem. Could it be that their purpose is to draw
attention to their own personal self-indulgent publicities? Is their
negative view of our country or of our flag genuine or even reasonable? To
our youth that are so disposed we can forgive due to their lack of maturity
To those adults who support such actions we should deplore because of their
lack of allegiance. America is a far cry from being perfect but we do have
the right to dissent. That right should be preserved and respected but I
think we should couple such dissent with truth, reason and
responsibility...If your beef is with our President, a Senator, our laws or
the validity of a war, don't blame Old Glory because she represents us all
and stands for only the best that America has to offer.. HW Dix, Ret USAF,
1923 Simpson Trail, SA 78251, 210-256-6335.