Respect for our Flag, National Anthem, and Those Who Protect It! -- By Lucinda Bryan

12/20/2017
by Shiloh Rifle

The American Flag is a symbol of pride and freedom for all Americans and represents the many lives lost throughout our history for us to be the nation we are today. Our American flag when looked upon should make us remember our beloved soldiers, men and women who have fought and lost their lives for us.

When our National Anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner is played, all Americans should stand at attention in respect for those who fought and are still actively serving our U.S. Military. U.S. Federal Statute (36 U.S. Code 301 National Anthem) says we should face the flag and stand at attention with the right hand over the heart, remove our hats and not talk during the playing of our Anthem. Nowhere does it state that it is okay to kneel and protest. There is a time and place if you feel the need to protest but NOT during our National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance and raising and lowering of our American flag. You are doing nothing but being disrespectful to our Veterans who have served and are still serving. We the people need to remember the only reason you have that right to kneel is because of our Veterans who fight and those who have died to protect our flag.

We as elders and the next generation need to start setting the example and not be afraid to fight back. Our History MUST not be lost and erased from our school books. Shame on those who are supposed to be representing us in the White House. It makes me sick to see what is happening to this beautiful country. President Donald Trump stated, "It is time to remember that old wisdom our soldiers will never forget: that whether we are black or brown or white we all bleed the same red blood of patriots, we all enjoy the same glorious freedoms, and we all salute the same great American flag."