It's time to draw the line. Enough is enough. I just saw a grown man in the grocery store wearing the American flag tied around his head. I had to leave the area for fear of causing a scene. Understand this — I have in the past and would again go to war to defend our wonderful American right of freedom of speech. It is the same freedom that allows citizens to disrespect the flag.
If you think that you are demonstrating your love of this country by wearing the red, white and blue of the American flag as an article of clothing, I'm afraid you have missed the entire meaning of the symbol of our country. You are not demonstrating patriotism, but you are being disrespectful. The case of the headband is repugnantly disrespectful.
Check the flag code. Ask a veteran. Many a veteran has swallowed and turned the other way when witnessing American flag material used for T shirts, hats, neckties, bow ties or bathing suits. Enough! This is the symbol of our country.
For 236 years, since the birth of America, patriots have fought and died to protect the rights and freedoms Americans enjoy. The American flag has been proudly carried into battle countless times, and the blood of our youth has been spilled in the defense of what it symbolizes.
I have personally seen the other side (persecution, tyranny, and oppression) in both Bosnia and Kosovo. Believe me, freedom and liberty is worth fighting for. So, hoist it up the pole or display it on your residence, but please stop wearing it.
Bill Starr
Commander, American Legion Post 525
Mount Prospect
