Letters Letters (December 05, 2003)

Respect the flag

Editor,

I am very concerned by the disrespect being shown to the United States flag by a small number of people in our fair city. It is great to see the flag displayed, especially on holidays and special occasions. However, when a flag is displayed that is worn, tattered, badly faded or dirty, that is not showing proper regard or respect for our national colors. In addition, a flag that is displayed during hours of darkness and is not properly illuminated with direct lighting is being improperly displayed, and this too shows disrespect to our national colors.

I encourage all members of our community who want to display the flag to do so in the proper manner. Worn, tattered, badly faded or dirty flags should not be displayed. They can be properly disposed of by contacting the local Veterans of Foreign Wars or other veteran's organizations, and then replaced with a new one. If a flag is displayed 24 hours a day, or during hours of darkness, it should be illuminated by direct lighting. Let's all show proper respect for our national colors. John ClatworthyU.S. Marine Corps (Retired)

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