Some purists go overboard on flag etiquette

To the editor:

Some Speak Out callers have made acerbic comments about persons displaying the flag. Here are some comments from "Flag Etiquette":

"When the flag is in condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, it should be destroyed in a dignified way." If you have but one flag to fly and cannot get a replacement, is it wrong to display a faded or tattered flag? I think not. It is a display of love of country.

"It should not be displayed on a float, automobile or boat except from a staff." I guess that to local purists this means the many flag decals and magnetic symbols should be removed from cars.

"The flag should never be used for advertising purposes, nor be embroidered on articles such as cushions or handkerchiefs, printed of otherwise impressed on boxes or anything that is designed for temporary use and discarded, or used as a costume or athletic uniform." So much for newspaper inserts and screened T-shirts.

Some people get upset by imagined transgressions. I don't if no offense seems meant. A slightly tattered or faded flag reminds me that someone loves this country and has made an effort to show it.

Every V-E Day and V-J Day I fly the 48-star flag my father had, but it is a symbol, not a be-all and end-all. I did not go to Korea nor my brothers to Vietnam for a flag. We went to protect the Constitution and a way of life.

JOHN STROUT

Cape Girardeau