PREZ BUSH VIOLATED FED LAW BY WRITING ON AM. FLAG (Updated)

San Diego -- Tuesday (11-11) is Veterans Day, and because we have veterans on the staff of San Diego News Service, we will display the American flag, proudly.

But, many, many abuse the flag, and violate federal law.

For example, you cannot write on, or attach anything to, our national flag. When President "W" did so several times during his administration, he committed a federal crime (but, who's going to bust him?).

At the Sheraton Island Marina, while joining members of the Torrey Pines Sailing Club, I noticed a huge, fancy yacht nearby had a paper American flag on its outboard bulkhead. But, it had the words "Support our Troops," printed across it.

That violated federal law and a note explaining this was left. On my next visit to the docks, the violated flag had been removed. It's great to honor our troops, but don't dishonor the flag in doing so.

The white and blue in the American flag are standard colors, but the red is a special shade which is used on for the flag.

When flown at night, the flag must have a spotlight on it, except in combat.
Rules for saluting the flag by veterans, however, have recently changed.

Traditionally, only persons on active duty could give the military salute with the flattened hand touching the forehead. Often, veteran organizations (Am. Legion, VFW, etc.) have ignored this and their members have used the military salute.

Now the rules for saluting the flag by veterans during the playing of the national anthem, or as the flag passes in a parade, have changed.

Veterans may now use the military salute, even when they are not "covered" (wearing a hat).

Active-duty military, however, still must be wearing their hat to give a hand salute during the playing of the national anthem or during the pledge of allegiance.
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Copyright 2008 by San Diego News Service (619) 757-4909 leopowerhere@msn.com