During the July 4th holiday weekend, I was pleased to see the American flag prominently displayed on homes and businesses.
Seeing these flags brought back memories of my early days at the Pentagon. I noticed the stars were on the right side of the flag, with the stripes to the left.
Curious about this detail, I asked someone about it. Without hesitation, she responded, “The flag was carried by standard bearers moving forward in battle. It needs to fly in the direction we’re facing. America is leading the way.”
This simple explanation holds a profound meaning. For those in uniform, the flag symbolizes direction—it’s about movement, purpose, and commitment. For them, and for our nation, that direction signifies progress.
Though I haven’t served, my experience in the Biden administration has sharpened my understanding of what the flag signifies for service members. It embodies the Constitution and the promises we make to defend it—not any particular president or political faction.
Traveling to military bases globally, I felt the weight of the American flag’s symbolism. Its presence on service members in conflict zones resonates deeply, especially for allies beside them. The flag represents more than just military might; it also symbolizes humanitarian aid and support.
For men and women in uniform, displaying the flag is an act of pride, done not out of blind allegiance to every policy but from belief in the country’s enduring values.
That’s why it stings when I witness some Democrats and young progressives reject the flag in protest against President Trump’s perceived authoritarianism.
In some instances, people have burned the flag or expressed anger by displaying other countries’ flags. This reaction, though understandable—particularly for those who feel marginalized or betrayed—can be troubling.
The Trump era has ended, but its remnants linger. The Democratic Party now faces the challenge of rebuilding from the disarray left in its wake.
Thus, it’s essential that Democrats reclaim the flag. It’s not a possession of Trump or his supporters. They may use it for their purposes, treating it as a prop or a symbol of division, but the flag inherently belongs to all who cherish American ideals.
When Trump supporters stormed the Capitol, they carried flags that signified rebellion, not patriotism. In contrast, progressives have long championed the vision of the flag representing equality, dignity, and opportunity for all.
These principles aren’t marginal; they are fundamentally American values.
That’s why Democrats should proudly fly the flag—at every rally, march, and protest seeking justice and equality. I still recall waving the flag in Grant Park on Election Night in 2008, a reminder of what this symbol stands for: defending our democracy and our Constitution.
Let’s not allow the narrative to shift, painting critics of America’s shortcomings as unpatriotic. We must stand tall and move forward, as those Air Force officers reminded me.
As we approach the celebration of America’s 250th birthday and look ahead to the upcoming elections, it’s crucial for veterans and Democrats alike to hold the flag high. This flag should represent a commitment to democratic principles and a focus on real values.
