It’s Just My Opinion
By Harris R. Sherline
(Harris R. Sherline is a retired CPA/Business manager and executive that has lived in the valley for over 20 years. Harris also has an extensive background in the charitable works, having served on many non-profit boards, including seven years as Chairman/CEO of the Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital. He stays active with business consulting and writing opinion columns on a wide variety of topics.)
Respecting Our Flag
The American flag means many things to many people. But, I believe to most of us it is the symbol of our nation and the freedoms it affords to those of us who are lucky enough to live in the greatest society the world has ever known.
However, the very freedoms that we are all so justly proud of also include the right to disrespect our flag, even burn it, as offensive as that may be to many, if not most, Americans. Perhaps the most common and innocuous form of disrespect is just plain carelessness or negligence. Everywhere we go in our beautiful Valley, we see examples of such neglect as leaving the flag flying 24/7 in all kinds of weather, battered by wind and rain until it is eventually reduced to tatters.
For those who may not know, there is a clearly defined protocol for handling, displaying and storing the American flag. It is quite detailed, but among its many provisions there are a few that should be observed by everyone who chooses to fly our national banner (Source: Flag Etiquette, STANDARDS of RESPECT, by Duane Streufert, Site Established on 20 November 1994. Last Updated 10 February 2005):
The Flag Code: The laws relating to the flag of the United States of America are found in detail in the United States Code. Title 4, Chapter 1 pertains to the flag; Title 18, Chapter 33, Section 700 regards criminal penalties for flag desecration; Title 36, Chapter 3 pertains to patriotic customs and observances.
These laws were supplemented by Executive Orders and Presidential Proclamations, formalizing and unifying the traditional ways in which we give respect to the flag, also contains specific instructions on how the flag is not to be used. They include:
• The flag should never be used for any advertising purpose. It should not be embroidered, printed or otherwise impressed on such articles as cushions, handkerchiefs, napkins, boxes, or anything intended to be discarded after temporary use. Advertising signs should not be attached to the staff or halyard
• The flag should not be used as part of a costume or athletic uniform, except that a flag patch may be used on the uniform of military personnel, fireman, policeman and members of patriotic organizations.
• The flag should never have placed on it, or attached to it, any mark, insignia, letter, word, number, figure, or drawing of any kind.
• The flag should never be used as a receptacle for receiving, holding, carrying, or delivering anything.
• The flag should be cleaned and mended when necessary.
• When a flag is so worn it is no longer fit to serve as a symbol of our country, it should be destroyed by burning in a dignified manner. (Emphasis mine).
• NOTE: Most American Legion Posts regularly conduct a dignified flag burning ceremony, often on Flag Day, June 14th. Many Cub Scout Packs, Boy Scout Troops, and Girl Scout Troops retire flags regularly as well. Contact your local American Legion Hall or Scout Troop to inquire about the availability of this service.
Locally, we see American flags on display at meetings, government offices, on various buildings, homes and stores. Unfortunately, many people do not realize that they are disrespecting not only our flag but the very principles for which it stands when they allow it to fall into a state of disrepair. The problem is that poorly maintained flags are usually on private property and no agency can take enforcement action to remedy the situation. So, if you do display a flag, please show your respect by keeping it in good condition.
To those who are displaying flags that are in poor condition, your patriotism is greatly appreciated, but you may be unaware of the message you are sending to our community and the tourists who visit our Valley. Please take the time to replace tattered flags and show the community that you care.
And, as we travel around the Valley enjoying the many well maintained flags that are on display, please take a minute to let the owners know that you appreciate the effort they put into keeping our flag flying proudly.