Letter to the editor: We must respect the flag

The American flag represents all Americans, including all nationalities, ethnicities, ages and occupations. The U.S. flag is not a canvas for political expression or promotion of personal agendas.

I see examples of flag desecration on a daily basis; these include adding “off color” stripes to the flag, placing the face of a leader on the flag or placing another flag on top of the flag. The U.S. Flag Code is very clear regarding rules related to the privilege of flying the American flag.

These and other desecrations constitute a violation of the U.S. Flag Code. See U.S. Code 8 (G) concerning disrespect of the flag: “The flag should never have placed upon it, nor on any part of it, nor attached to it any mark, insignia, letter, word, figure, design, picture, or drawing of any nature.”

These “flag editors” may or may not have good intentions, but their desecration is a violation of the U.S. Flag Code.

The American flag does not belong to any individual or group to change or modify. The flag belongs to all of us and should always remain in its traditional state and as intended. Displaying the flag is a privilege but it comes with responsibility. The American flag should be displayed properly or not displayed at all.

Thomas C. Spallone

Hempfield