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ANTHEM: It's about respect

| September 29, 2017 1:00 AM

After serving this great nation for many years in the military, I agree fools have the right to not stand tall with their hand over their heart when the National Anthem is played before the start of sports functions. At the same time, it makes my heart ache because WE are all Americans and ALL of us should be standing tall and proud to be an American. The reason given for so many to kneel or refuse to come to the field before the Anthem is played is demeaning to all of us, not just those of us who wore the uniform of this nation. I feel we have now become a nation of the “me, me, me” generation, instead of being proud Americans.

Yes, I do know all of you have the right to do as you choose, but when you disrespect our Flag (My Flag) you demean me personally and that hurts. Yes, I voluntarily chose to enter the military and chose to make a career of it. I lost some great comrades who paid the ultimate price who now reside at Arlington National Cemetery and I can imagine every one of them are turning in their graves while our Flag has become meaningless to some overpaid sports figures. I don’t believe this selfish act of civil disobedience is helping the cause of racial justice. There are better ways to raise the issue without adding to the race relation problems which over the last few years have become so much worse.

I think President Trump needed to challenge these fools, but better language might have been better served. Like President Trump, the Flag stands for our nation and all its peoples, no matter what race, color or creed. I stand tall and proud when The Flag is presented, I am an American and proud of my service to this great nation and feel very strongly the Flag should be respected by everyone.

DUSTY RHOADS

Proud Veteran

Proud American

Coeur d’Alene