On March 29, by a vote of 63 to 37, the Senate rejected a constitutional amendment that would give Congress the authority to ban the desecration of the American flag. The pros and cons of this amendment have been strenuously debated in the Congress and throughout the country for several years. I want to take a moment to share with readers of this column the reasons why I voted in support of the amendment. I believe our Constitution and laws must protect this symbol of our freedom. I recognize that there are strong, sincere, and legitimate arguments on both sides of the issue.
Military heroes can oppose the flag amendment.
By the same token, liberal Supreme Court Justices have supported the flag amendment. The American flag is a unique American symbol. Among other things, it reminds us of the sacrifices of those men and women who serve in our military. It is carried by our soldiers into battle. It is draped over the coffins of those who gave their lives to preserve our freedom.