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Olympic athletes disrespected flag

Olympic athletes disrespected flag

It has been decades since the United States has done so well in the Olympics, but what I take disgust at is the inappropriate ways the American Flag was used by the contenders and their families.

The women’s volleyball competition ended with both American teams winning a gold and silver metal. Immediately following the victory an interview with the champions took place, One of the winning team members decided to wear the U.S. flag as a scarf wrapped around her neck, I cringed at the display and walked away from the TV. I was in the company of other friends. I made a comment and left.

A day later both teams in interview on a variety show are sitting and wearing the Flag as a piece of clothing. Another case was the mother of a female diver who decided to use the American flag as a handkerchief in a display of emotion for her daughter. That is such a dichotomy for I have seen many a family members of our Armed Forces that have cried in pain at the loss of their loved one in combat. They all have looked up to the American flag but never have used it in that manner.

One comment from a friend was that, “at least they are not burning it.” I may be getting old but I have served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 25 years and retired with the rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant E-9. I initially served during the Vietnam era but re-enlisted in the reserves in 1986. I served two tours in Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, I respect the flag, there are protocols for the proper display and etiquette for the flag; wearing our colors is not in the book.

David Szablewski

Naperville

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