The Flag, the First Amendment, and the military.

From: Army Lawyer | Date: August 1, 2001| Author: Davidson, Michael J. | Copyright information

Introduction

Few issues invoke the heightened emotional response that defaming the American flag generates. Old Glory holds a special status in the United States. Our national anthem, the Star-Spangled Banner, was inspired by the sight of the American flag flying over Fort McHenry the morning after the 1814 British bombardment. (1) We pledge allegiance to the flag as the symbol of our Republic, (2) and when prominent citizens die, the flag is flown at half-staff. (3)

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