The Nov. 9 Herald featured a front page story, “Pinups buoy troops,” which carried a picture of a young lady swathed in the flag of the United States. While I applaud the intent of the group at Fort Lewis to support the military stationed in the war zone, it is shameful to see our flag so denigrated. Not only is this disrespectful of our national banner, but in violation of the code in which Old Glory is to be displayed.
From the inception of our country — when our flag led troops into battle — to the present conflict, respect for the flag has been paid for in blood.
I was gratified to see Mr. Carl S. Wipperman’s letter of Nov 13. There is at least one other person who objects to the fouling of our beloved flag.
Am I part of the last generation to respect the flag and what it stands for? Are young Americans so caught up in themselves that they can no longer visualize this world beyond their own personal desires? What happened to respect for law and order, private property and the sanctity of marriage? Why are ethics and morals no longer valued by many of our young people? Why do they no longer believe “Do unto others as you would have others do unto you?”
I see selfless young people willing to give their lives in defense of our country, but what of those here at home who refuse to recognize the need to stand united against a common foe? Is America losing the will to remain a united people? Will our country go the way of the Roman Empire? No nation could defeat the legions, but Rome failed from within and died not with a defiant cry, but a whimper.
RICHARD M. BRAUER
Langley
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