to all you patriotic truck owners

[highperf4x4]

First I'd like to thank those of you that have served to protect our freedom. We owe you a debt of gratitude.

Secondly I'm going to point out that freedom is what you were protecting. Freedom of expression is at the top of the list. If there is a code for military people dealing with the american flag then I'm assuming it means a "flag". If someone chopped up an actual flag and used it for apparel or strapped it onto their vehicle, I'd be offended myself. A representation of American "colors" is not a flag. I like to fly my colors myself now and then. It doesn't mean I'm going to walk around town with a flag in my hand. So if you're going to be offended then be offended about the defamation of an actual flag. Not the american colors.

[kvn1011]

Originally Posted by highperf4x4

First I'd like to thank those of you that have served to protect our freedom. We owe you a debt of gratitude.

Secondly I'm going to point out that freedom is what you were protecting. Freedom of expression is at the top of the list. If there is a code for military people dealing with the american flag then I'm assuming it means a "flag". If someone chopped up an actual flag and used it for apparel or strapped it onto their vehicle, I'd be offended myself. A representation of American "colors" is not a flag. I like to fly my colors myself now and then. It doesn't mean I'm going to walk around town with a flag in my hand. So if you're going to be offended then be offended about the defamation of an actual flag. Not the american colors.

Well said!!

[highperf4x4]

Thanks. It might sound like a backhanded compliment though and I hope it's not taken that way.

I hope the veterans and the active guys alike pay more heed to that first sentence.

[TheOldGM]

Interesting to say the least.

[VanceH]

I served our country and would be proud to drive that around town!!!!!!!!GOD BLESS AMERICA

[wdrthird]

Originally Posted by woodchip

Super Bowl 2004, Janet Jackson's "costume malfunction" made international news; that same half-time show featured the wearing of an American flag by performer Kid Rock. He later removed the flag poncho and hurled it over his head. How many saw that on International news.

I saw that performance live and I agree that making the american flag into a poncho was disrespectful, but I do also remember that when he pulled it over his head he had someone standing behind him to catch it, so he went out of his way to make sure someone was on stage to keep it from hitting the ground. What he did was wrong, but I wouldnt say he "hurled it". In alot of concerts you see performers remove something and toss it into the crowd or throw it down on stage. Kid Rock was wrong, but I dont think he meant any disrespect by it.

[UltraBlue71]

I am in the USAF, (17 years) I think alot of Americans have their hearts in the right places when they do projects like this, but to alot of us (vets and non vets alike) the flag is such a coveted symbol that using it in ANY manner other than what you would use a honest to goodness flag for is disrespectful. To each thier own, but remember its the cover that drapes our fighting mans coffin when he comes home after paying the ultimate sacrifice for the country you live in, now do you really need to put that on the vehicle you drive in the rain and mud and snow? Once again, just an Opinion....

[highperf4x4]

Originally Posted by UltraBlue71

I am in the USAF, (17 years) I think alot of Americans have their hearts in the right places when they do projects like this, but to alot of us (vets and non vets alike) the flag is such a coveted symbol that using it in ANY manner other than what you would use a honest to goodness flag for is disrespectful. To each thier own, but remember its the cover that drapes our fighting mans coffin when he comes home after paying the ultimate sacrifice for the country you live in, now do you really need to put that on the vehicle you drive in the rain and mud and snow? Once again, just an Opinion....

I think you're still referring to an actual flag though.

The problem is that most americans don't have a military point of view. So to us it really is symbolic of patriotism. The freedom to be unique and express that patriotism in our own creative and artistic fashion is part of being american. In the end we're all on the same side in a democratic society.

[texanidiot25]

Originally Posted by highperf4x4

I think you're still referring to an actual flag though.

I think you missed his point. He's saying any representation of the flag should be treated as the flag itself:

the flag is such a coveted symbol that using it in ANY manner other than what you would use a honest to goodness flag for is disrespectful.

This of course all matters on one's opinion on the subject, and to what the flag means to them. I fully respect what is said above about being on a truck as it's driven daily, it can be seen as offensive. While at the same time, the flag rides on a soldier's shoulder as he or she is in equally dirty conditions. Of course, different situations, but just an observation.

[highperf4x4]

Ok, I'm just going to disagree and leave it at that.

I still want to say thanks for what you guys and gals do for our country. It's much appreciated and that's what is important to me.

[70cst]

Guys...I just want to say THANKS for keeping this thread very respectable in your views and opinions. I have been watching this thread with a concern that it could go south but you all have done this site proud in your ability to voice opinions in an honorable way. I just felt a big Thank You was deserved!

[UltraBlue71]

Hey fellas, I was just making an attempt to try to help you see my point of view. I usually dont take myself, or too many things seriuosly, here are my rules. Dont mistreat my dog or family (In that order, Ha) mess with my truck, and I'm kinda touchy about the flag. But other than that I like to think I am laid back, to each his own, and god bless individuality, its part of what we fight for and a alot of what makes this country so great, I am glad so many people still apperciate what we do, thanks again, nuff said!