Our View: Flying The Flag Is Not ‘Code’

It’s a sad truth that today, many of our everyday actions are “coded” liberal or conservative. Rightly or wrongly, they are perceived as sending an unspoken message about our larger beliefs.

You’re into hunting and fishing? You’re probably conservative. Driving an electric car? Big-time liberal. From the foods that we eat to the media we consume, we’re labeled. It is, of course, foolishness. But there it is, as plain as the hat on your head.

Nowadays, flying the American flag is seen as a solidly conservative act. It shouldn’t be.

This weekend, we’ll all pause to remember the people who fought and died for our country — not the country of any particular party or ideology, but a nation of citizens offering differing ideas and viewpoints. When our common values were threatened, members of the military were called upon to make the ultimate sacrifice. 

Mark Twain had it right when he famously observed that “patriotism is supporting your country all the time, and your government when it deserves it.” Regardless of how we feel about our current leaders, on Memorial Day — and every day — our fallen soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen and merchant mariners deserve the thanks of every citizen, not just those of the most fervent flag-wavers.

Fly the flag reverently this weekend. And when you see Old Glory, don’t assume you know the owner’s political perspective.