The Importance of the American Flag: Are All Patriots Dead?

We have heard them all. High school Hispanic students raising the Mexican flag over the American flag, flag burning during protests, tearing, defacing or splattering with dirt and other forms of flag desecration. It is, most of the time, sad to think that most people would defile the greatest symbol of the American nation.

If honoring the flag implies patriotism and high regard for things that are of worth, defilement of the national flag, on the other hand, implies not honoring the veterans, provocation of violence and, in general, being anti-American.

The strongest argument towards flag desecration is that flag burning is just action and is done to prove a political point, and is not a form of speech, thus, it is not included in the First Amendment. This is definitely fallacious. Speech is expressed in so many ways and is not merely verbal. Most often, speech is more of actions and symbols than just words!

The American flag is a symbol of so many things about the American nation that is magnificent. It is an embodiment of the nation’s greatness. For over 200 years now, the American flag has been a symbol of the nation’s unity and strength. It has been hoisted by our forefathers in many wars that fought for freedom.

Such is the importance of the American flag that it should be considered as a separate, ‘living entity’. American laws state that this is so. Thus, any act of vandalism on the flag is an attack on patriotism, values and traditions.

Currently, it has thirteen alternating red and white stripes (7 for red and 6 for white). And with its red, white and blue colors, it waves in the sky and boasts of a nation with rich history and amazing culture.

Now, if you are to be asked what the colors symbolize, would you be able to tell with much pride, what they are? Or are you one of those who would just smirk and scratch their head because not one answer would be correct?

Red represents valor and hardiness. White is the symbol of innocence and purity. Blue is a representation of justice, perseverance and vigilance. Such standards! One should be proud to be a part of this great nation…well, not just a great nation but the ‘greatest nation’ in the world at present.

Since the flag is a symbol of the nation strength, it should be treated with much respect. Here are some ways to take care of the American flag:

1. Make sure that the flag has ample light at all times. Either the sun or another light source could be used.
2. The flag should not be flown when the weather is not fair, except in cases where the flag was designed to endure harsh weather conditions.
3. The flag should never be used for advertisements.
4. The flag should never be worn as a part of a costume or uniform (exceptions are people from the military, fire department, police force and other athletic or patriotic organizations).
5. The flag should be kept clean and mended when necessary.
6. When the flag has to be displayed, the blue portion should always be on the upper left part.
7. Car owners can only display flag stickers on the inside of their vehicle (on the side windows).
8. Be sure that before storage, a flag should be dry and should be sealed if necessary.
9. When a flag is tattered or used beyond repair, it should be burned completely in blazing flames. Make sure that no traces are left that the burnt material was formerly a flag.
10. When the American flag is flown with state flags or city flags, it should be at the topmost part, hoisted first and last to be taken down.

The importance of the American flag should, without question, be any American’s priority. You might be surprised that simple acts such as not saluting might be considered a disrespectful act. Here and abroad, the American flag is constantly being burned out of protest or just a declaration of ‘hatred’ towards the country. You may not be able to stop each and every act of desecration but you can start with yourself. Be able to defend ‘Old Glory’ and be proud to be American!