Further, Gilbertson sees no connection between free speech and destroying the flag. Gilbertson said his fervor for the flag goes back to childhood. We also had two students go outside and hoist the flag. That was quite an honor. Nationally, American Legion and other veterans groups are fighting the losing battle of old age.
Fewer wars mean fewer veterans.
Gilbertson said the local American Legion still attracts younger members from later wars - Vietnam, Panama, Grenada, and the Persian Gulf. I didn't join for almost 25 years until after I got out of the service. Even then I wasn't that active for a while.