letter to the editor
FHS grads, farragutpress taken to task about Anthem
Thank you for your June 25 front page coverage of Farragut High School’s graduation and the attempted, albeit inappropriate, display of respect for our American Flag and what it means. It would have been even better if it was not marred by several displays of disrespect for our Flag.
Specifically, three sections of our American Flag code were violated: 4US Code 8 sections (b), The flag should never touch anything beneath it, such as the ground, the floor, water or merchandise; (d), The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding or drapery; and (j), No part of the flag should ever be used as a costume or athletic uniform … .
What happened to the public schools of the past in which respect for our country and its elements of recognition were taught and practiced? Ignorance of proper flag etiquette is not a valid excuse for the disrespect displayed on farragutpress’ front page.
Why are the available, on campus resources not better utilized so as to avoid such abuse, albeit unintentional and based in ignorance. Farragut High School’s Navy (Junior)ROTC Unit is staffed with personnel who know the difference and probably have first-person experience training personnel in proper flag etiquette gained during their 20-plus-year careers defending our “Flag and the Republic for which it stands” while on active duty.
It is also regrettable to see Farragut High School seniors and farragutpress promoting the disrespectful practice, which has become increasingly popular among some residents of the United States of America who reap the benefits provided by America but refuse to properly respond to the playing of our National Anthem.
The pertinent excerpt of the applicable reference, “36 U.S. Code § 301.National Anthem follows, specifically, 36 USC 301(b)(1)(c): Conduct During Playing — during a rendition of the National Anthem when the flag is displayed — … (c), all other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, and men not in uniform, if applicable, should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart … .”
Saturday was Independence Day. Last week was a very appropriate week to recognize and learn from past errors and resolve to learn and do better. Respectfully yours in Liberty.
DH (Andy) Andrew, West Knox County,
Graysen E. Tryon (Andy’s grandson)
