Flag at half staff too often

Tim Broderick's front page article, "Too many reasons to mourn" on June 20 highlights some of the instances whereby the American flag has been ordered to half staff to honor deceased members of the military, government, and victims of crimes. Sadly, this time-honored display of respect has been frequently extended far beyond the intent and context of the Flag Act and can be construed by some as "political correctness."

Here is a abbreviated quote from the National Flag Foundation relating to circumstances that might dictate the display of the American flag at half staff. " ... but rather to head off a growing trivialization of this memorial salute, and to preserve the dignity and significance of flying the U.S. flag at half-staff. To any readers who may think that NFF is insensitive for raising these breaches of etiquette, please be assured that our motives are pure. We grieve these human losses deeply; however, we believe proper respect for our flag must be maintained - no matter the circumstances."

Let's reserve this memorial salute for those who have served their country honorably and well.

Elliott McDaniel

Schaumburg