The picture below is from last year. It was at an event during the playing of the National Anthem. Barack Obama did NOT place his hand over his heart, while the others did. Here in Knox County we had a similar incident recently, however it is a tad bit different.
One of our Brian’s Blog correspondent attended this years Fulton High School graduation. Everyone on stage did NOT place their hand over their heart with the exception of one elected official. On the stage mimicking the Barack Obama gesture were the members of the administration of Fulton High School, Assistant Superintendent Donna Wright and Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam.
The one official that appropriately saluted the National Anthem was Knox County School Board Vice-Chair Indya Kincannon.
Ms. Kincannon, this is a great way to lead by example. Your respect for our country and its National Anthem has NOT gone unnoticed. Good Job!
Actually Brian, and I know you’re not going to like this…I investigated the picture. It’s taken from a video of the anthem. Guess what? Obama is the only one singing the anthem!
I’m all for a Republican win in November Brian, but let’s not set ourselves up for a bullet between the toes.
Stushie:
I will take your word for the fact that Barack was the only one singing the anthem at the time of the picture being taken. My question is How does that change the issue?
Are you suggesting that placing your hand over the heart is only for those individuals not singing the anthem. Or are you suggesting that singing the anthem prohibits you from placing your heart over the heart. If this is the case. I am guilty of an offense because I place my hand over my heart and sing the anthem at the same time.
Or are you suggesting that Obama can only do one thing at a time. If that is your suggestion than he will not be a good President, because as President he will be required to chew gum, walk, talk and make decisions all at the same time.
It is customary to put your hand over your heart while reciting the Pledge of Allegiance (like so: http://www.snopes.com/politics/graphics/anthem3.jpg).
It is NOT always customary or required to do so while singing the National Anthem(see below). Technically, the Flag Code says only outdoors and when a flag is displayed. But, since the Anthem is often indoors or played when a flag isn’t always present (or obvious), it lends to some confusion among not just citizens but those within the Armed Forces as well.
Also, I should cite:
“While the Code empowers the President of the United States to alter, modify, repeal or prescribe additional rules regarding the Flag, no federal agency has the authority to issue ‘official’ rulings legally binding on civilians or civilian groups.”
Consequently, different interpretations of various provisions of the Code may continue to be made. The Flag Code may be fairly tested: ‘No disrespect should be shown to the Flag of the United States of America.’
Therefore, actions not specifically included in the Code may be deemed acceptable as long as proper respect is shown.”
I haven’t yet heard any serious outcry about the applause or cheering that generally accompanies the near-end of the anthem, drowning out “home of the brave” as a singer at a sporting event finally and, often, mercifully reaches the final leg of the anthem. Or those whose hand is over their hearts and whose mouths are in full conversation mode. Certainly standing in silence or respectfully singing along is less offensive than that.
Again, patriotism used to divide, when we have bigger problems.