To the Editor:
Regarding a letter titled “Little Respect for Flag” submitted by Virginia Maslin, which referenced an article by Lt. Col. Charles Jackson (USAF-Ret.), there is a contextual issue. The writer referenced Section 594 of the National Defense Authorization Act. What was not referenced was the subtitle, “Selected Military Personnel Policy Issues.” The rules of conduct contained in the act are for military personnel and not the general public. The reference to non-military persons includes civilians attending a military function. The rules contained in this section refer to an official presentation of the flag in a military environment, and not to a high school color guard passing down Main Street in a municipal parade.
That being said, I don’t discourage anyone from rendering such respect to the flag. However, I do not believe the National Defense Authorization Act pertains to civilian parades.
Someone locally was taking issue with a painted flag not being illuminated at night as is required by law or tradition. I agree a flag flown at night should be illuminated, but a picture of a flag is not the flag – just as a picture of a $100 bill is not a $100 bill. The Secret Service will tell you that. I believe in rendering appropriate respect to the flag, but we have to understand when, where and how the rules apply.
CHRISTOPHER SOUTH
Villas
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