I came across this in my surfing this morning.
The interesting thing to me about that article is his quote:
In October, Obama told Iowa television station KCRG that he decided to stop wearing a U.S. flag lapel pin during the run-up to the Iraq war because it had become “a substitute for, I think, true patriotism.”
“I decided I won’t wear that pin on my chest. Instead, I’m going to try to tell the American people what I believe will make this country great and, hopefully, that will be a testimony to my patriotism,” Obama said.
I remember the first time I drove to Seattle or Portland maybe, after the invasion of Baghdad.
Every single F-350 and Suburban was plastered with American flags, stickers, ribbons, you name it. “We support our troops” and such.
Even on the highway, there was a definite feeling of intimidation, that if somehow you were not loudly and obviously enough demonstrating the vociferousness of your patriotism, you weren’t patriotic enough. So I respect Obama for his decision, and I know pretty much where he’s coming from.
And now you have to have your hand on your heart during the anthem? the standard has always been to stand and uncover your head and pay attention to demonstrate respect. You didn’t have to have your hand on your heart, you didn’t have to go WHOOP WHOOP WHOOP, and you didn’t have to speak in tongues.
Jebus.
