Flags At Half Staff?
Driving through town today I noticed that the U.S. Flag at the Court House was lowered to half staff yet the U.S. Flag at the Federal Post Office was not lowered to half staff. This is troubling as there were also several U.S. Flags posted around the courthouse improperly.
If the U.S. Flag is ordered by either the president or governor, the only two authorized to issue such an order, then why wasn't the flag at the Post Office Building also at half staff and why wasn't the flags around the courthouse posted properly?
If an appropriate order is issued to lower the U.S. Flag to half staff all U.S. Flags on government property are required to be flown at half staff. For those not able, because of size, or having been fixed to the staff, to be lowered to half staff a black ribbon may be attached at the top of that staff.
While we rightly remember this Patriot's Day with respect and prayers, we should also follow proper flag protocol in doing so.
posted by Allen Barrett | 4:15 PM
98 Comments:
And we should not try to stir up unnecessary trouble. Why don't you go ask the Postmaster or the VFW Commander? For Heaven's sakes, why do you feel a need to do this? Can't you just appreciate the fact that we are a patriotic society without criticizing those who went to the trouble to put the flags out to begin with?
Stirring up trouble? Are you crazy or just stupid and disrespectful? Especially in light of tomorrow's date, your response should have been "thank you for letting us know about this." Pehaps those in charge didn't realize an error was made, so I would call it constructive criticism and I appreciate it. Apparently you are one of those who think that if Mr. Barrett reports it, it's wrong, PERIOD. He makes mistakes like we all do, but the difference is, you and I don't pay his salary and he is not accountable to us. He reports the events and actions of public officials on this blog and backs up his statements and signs his name. You ever felt that strongly about ANYTHING? Strong enough to let spineless people take pot shots at you on your own blog? I doubt it. You don't have the guts to sign your name. Respect for our flag is a major deal. Reporting disrespect or a simple mistake is a public service, regardless of your personnel opinion of Mr. Barrett. You are part of a major problem in today's society, the mentality of "just let the so called little things go". Apathy is worse than disrespect and you exhibit both characterists. Grow up and look at the issues, not your petty issues with a citizen who allows you to post drivel on HIS blog.
Ann R.Reed
WOW! Reed is fired up over nothing. Looks like the blogmaster is low on subject material.
Ann
No, I happen to be a combat veteran and a patriot, so don't lecture me on respecting the flag. And, YES, this is what I call stirring up trouble.
Have you ever heard of making a mountain out of a mole hill? Think.
You bet I'm fired up. I disagree with Mr. Barrett frequently but more importantly those that do their utmost to squash free speech and allow disrespect for the flag to be put on the back burner just because some are so childish that the county gov't means nothing to them if Mr. Barrett reports something. Go back and read some of the postings. EVERY single time he reports on an event or the questionable behavior of someone whose salary I pay, these "fine upstanding" citizens start hurling insults and bashing Mr. Barrett. When point blank questioned about an issue, you get a "deer in the headlight" response because they couldn't care less. Or they ramble off some gossip and/or second hand info. When asked for proof, they quickly change the subject. EVERY time, not just once or twice. Some even admit that Ms. V can and should ignore state law at her discretion and a few citizens may be allowed to question that, but certainly not all and take the stance that she doesn't OWE and explanation. Every citizen, (even Mr. Barrett) has the right and RESPONSIBILITY to march into her office and demand answers from her and she is not doing them a favor, she is doing her job. And it's not a one time deal, there is NO limit as to the # of times a citizen may question those we put in power, it's too freaking bad if they are tired of hearing from someone, explain it right and truthfully and everyone will have more time to be more productive. The United States flag and the protocol surrounding it is a BIG, BIG deal. More people should care.
Ann R. Reed
Ann
And, as Merle Haggard once sang in a song, you're walking on the fighting side of me when you start accusing me of disrespecting our flag. It's bad enough that people like you enable this troublemaking.
Rabid, the correct procedure for handling MY U.S. Flag is not a "molehill" even if it was reported by Mr. Barrett. A "real" veteran would understand that.
Ann R. Reed
ann (deanna)
You just couldn't help with the name-calling, could you. Again, stop trying to enable a troublemaker and DO NOT lecture me on our flag. I saw a lot of guys die for it!!!!!
How dare you!
And you, as smart as you say you are, can't see troublemaking?
As I went through town today and noticed the flags, I thought I know why Barrett posted about the flags. Not much has been on the blog lately and he wanted to give the enabler a reason to post. I bet she/he was getting bored with nothing new.
Good post Ann.
I didn't know a black ribbon was to be placed at the top of the staff when it is one can't be lowered to half staff. So I will go with some others might have known that.
4:27
Aren't you guys the ones who are in reality the enablers? Sorta like the kettle calling the pot black I think.
So much for calling names and trying to keep something stirred up, right?
6:57 And you are not trying to stir up trouble. lol
Oh to be so perfect.
Ah, just think of it barrett. You alienate another group of people. Is this kind of needless troublemaking what you would call responsible journalism? Cab't you find anything better to do with your time?
Did you bother to read Romans 12: 9-21?
4:27
You are wrong. The troublemaker would love it if I dropped off the face of the earth. That would be just one less person to point out what he and the few enabler devotees are doing here. If the truth were known, I would think (my opinion) that he hates me as much as he does Mrs. Vanzant and some of the commissioners...particularly those in District 7.
7:55 Does Barrett know who you are?
I doubt he hates or dislikes you any more than you do him.
Good post Ann.
God bless those families who lost there loved ones on this day and God bless those who fight for our freedom still today!
May God also bless Giles County and those elected officials who are running it to the best of their abilities and with the common good of the people in mind. God bless them for having to endure the attacks of a few mean-spirited and hateful individuals.
May God also bless those tired old vets who do the often thankless job of putting out flags around town on special holidays. God bless them in spite of the critics who find fault with the black ribbon!
Somebody needs something better to do than to sit around and think up ways to cause trouble.
I was enjoying the nice posts, until 12:39.
2:17
Then you really should get out more and find something to do with your idle time.
Thank God the ones who so desperately want to run Giles County can't! Why? They can't get themselves elected. Again, thank God.
Thank God for the Veterans and military still fighting to give us the freedom to get on a blog and bitch. It is bitching if it's against Barrett or Vanzant.
Someone just can't see that do wrong also. That shoe fits both sides.
Thank God the troublemaker will soon be moving.
4:11 Do you know something I don't?
Who is moving?
Someone else will take his/her place.
2:34 Assume you mean Barrett when you talk about those 'who can't get elected", but that is one. Who else are you talking about?
458
Yes, I'm sure one of them will step up, but it will be (my opinion) a vast improvement for Giles County.
When I posted this topic it was only after number of other times when some of the same violations were being committed. It was also only after I had attempted to contact Mrs. Vanzant's office but no one apparently is there on Friday afternoon, at least no one with the authority to answer the phone.
I have watched people sit and continue talking while an uncased flag is brought into a room; watched court being held with the flag on the wrong side of the judge; been at football games when the Flag was brought in leading the procession and only a few dozen stood; I see flags being flown at night without any illumination, and other violations. I don't know who posted the flags around the courthouse or lowered the flag to half staff, or who ordered it lowered, I tried to find out last week and on occasion before last week.
I have no doubts that those who posted the flags were doing so from the most honorable motivations but the problem is if the flag isn't displayed properly it would be better that they not be displayed at all. Would anyone even consider posting a U.S. Flag underneath the state flag, or what if you saw the flag posted backward with the stripes at the staff instead of the stars?
My intention with this post was not
to be disrespectful especially on this weekend, but to me the more disrespect was shown by improper display of the flag and those who defended it's improper display.
I have a great deal of respect for the flag, what it stands for and those who have so valiantly defended it, it is out of that respect that I have brought this issue to the attention of whoever was responsible, not to criticize but simply in hopes of making proper corrections.
Mr. Barrett I don't agree with you on alot of things. However, I am a veteran and for those of us who are military minded, the improper display of the American Flag is a peave. So many times I stand at a ballgame and watch our children talking, answering a cell phone, or not placing their hand over the heart. We have failed in educating people on the right and wrong ways to display the flag. We was the last time you heard of anyone properly disposing of a worn and torn flag. Little things I guess. No body cares anymore. I remember a time my father would have slapped me into next week for acting up while the National Anthem played. Everyone wants to be a patriot but no one knows how to go about it the right way because the simply don't know how. I usually don't say anything but the American Flag is somthing I love and respect. Hope I haven't offended anyone, but if so, you will get over it!
The VFW puts the flags out around the square. In addition, many shop owners have their own flags. Why don't you go to the next VFW meeting and voice your concerns over the black ribbon? Or perhaps you might want to write another letter (epistle) to the editor?
You idiots have finally pissed me off. I too am a veteran, and I have great respect for the flag. The thing that used to irritate me in the military was to watch people running for buildings when Retreat was getting ready to start. I hate it at any event that the National Anthem is being played or the Pledge of Alliegance is being said, for anyone to leave their hat on or to be talking. If you don't want to say it or pay attention, then have the common respect to shut up. As far as Mr. Barrett's comments, if you take offense to them, tough. He brought up a question, and then got lambasted for it. If you don't like what he has to say, then deal with it. He has the right to ask the questions, just like you idiots have the right to answer. The difference is, he backs his with facts, you use innuendo. Which, by the way, is where your head is.
I didn't really see him getting bashed that much. I just saw the topic get hijacked by the same two people that argue like little children. They could go on for months. One is the enabler and one is on Barretts side. They both sound rediculous.
I guess this is something else mr barrett knows everything about he probably wasn't even in the military.
If the VFW placed those flags around the courthouse I would think they would certainly know how they was suppose to be displayed.
Thank God we do not have more like 2:34. 4:11 Glad you are moving.
9:17 As you well know, Mr. Barrett is a veteran having served in the military for over 20 years. So yes, he does know all about how the flag should be display. An apology from you to Mr. Barrett would be in order, especially since he has posted on this topic more than once his life's career.
10;51 That will never happen, but you are right.
8:59
Wrong. The true enablers are those who keep this stirred up. James Malone and his sons put out the flags around the square. I think wab should call James and enlighten him. I'm sure he would appreciate that since he served in Vietnam as a door gunner with the 101st Airborne.
So far I have been told it was the VFW, the American Legion, The Giles Honor Guard, and now Mr. Malone and his sons. I would be more than glad to speak with anyone about the display and I believe they would have no problem with the conversation, as I said before, I believe this was done with the purest and best intentions. Not knowing the proper way to display a U.S. Flag is no great sin it's only when you have a chance to learn the proper way and refuse because it's always been done that way then that is the problem.
I am sorry that I did not get the news that we were supposed to lower the flag on the 9th. I would never do anything to disrespect someone. My father and brother fought for this country and both died as disabled veterans. The men and women who serve this country make the ultimate sacrifice. The people who died in the September 11th attacks on this country were innocent victims of terrorist who were out to kill Americans. I may not believe that we are doing the right thing in Afghanistan and Iraq but I stand behind the troops 100%. God bless this country and all those that fight for it.
5:11 It great to see post like yours. An understanding one.
Thanks and may God Bless You.
It just amazes me how one man can stir up so much trouble.
7:58 Poor little you.
When the blog closes what will you do?
7:58 you would rather continue being stupid than listen for one second and become smart. This was not stirring up trouble it was just trying to get things done right. Barrett is right the flag don't get enough respect and not showing it right is very disrespectful.
I still want o know why the post office flag was up and the courthouse was down. You ordered it lowered. If this was done by Mrs Vanzant then she should say something about why she did it.
8:32
Please lay off the kool-aid and start thinking for yourself. YES, this thread was all about trying to stir up trouble...to "suggest" ignorance and disrespect for the flag. That's simply not true.
I ordered the flag lowered? Are you totally insane? If you want to know why one was lowered and the other was not, why don't you go ask Mrs. Vanzant and/or the Postmaster and stop being an enabler in this troublemaking effort?
Has anyone thought of the possibility that the Post Office is a federal building and that its flag is Federal property and if the Federal Government did not order flags to be flown at half mast it would not be?
Mrs. Vanzant has no authority over our Post Offices. Sorry
Mrs Vanzant has no authority to have any American Flag lowered anywhere as was pointed out before only the president and governor has that authority.
Whoever ordered the flag lowered was wrong unless it was the president or governor.
Mrs Vanzant had nothing to do with it, so why don't you enablers stop perpetuating this troublemaking?
10:49 So what makes you so sure Mrs Vanzant had nothing to do with it? Who did? In the past she has always been the one to tell Strickland what to do with the flag.
7:59 implied that the flag at the post office wasn't lowered because Mrs Vanzant didn't have authority over federal property but she did over the county property.
I pointed out that she has no authority to order the flag lowered over any property.
This has really become a mystery now with no one being responsible for the flag being lowered.
I can not imagine anyone taking that responsibility on themselves without approval of Mrs Vanzant who is responsible for county peoperty.
You fine citizens are proving your jealousy of Mrs. Vanzant more and more every day. Just start blaming everything on her. Wait.....you already do. I can't wait to see how you turn on the next County Executive. Very pitiful way of life you all live. At the end of the day and after all the complaining, she is still the one in charge of the county. Must sting a bit.
Sure does 3:16 but having the stupid as the leader always puts your panties in a twist just like having a president who can't tell the truth or take responsibility for their actions.
Just look at how much trouble one politically insignificant and angry man has caused just on this thread. I have never in my life seen such a quarrelsome individual.
Did Strickland mow the grass at the post office? Who told him to do that?
5:28 Just keep stirring it and they will keep posting to you.
5:28 you obviously have lived a very sheltered insignificant life. Not many can start out as an infant and remain that way all their life but you have succeeded where others have failed.
Go look in a mirror 5:28, i am sure you will see exactly such an individual staring back at you : )
To 31:16
The next County Executive?????
Are you saying that Mrs. Vanzant will not be our next County Executive????
She will not throw her hat into the next election????
Do tell!!!!!!
6:39, 6:41 and 6:45 (same person maybe?)
Your problem with me is that I made a true statement, and you just can't stand it.
Sept. 12, 7:58 Does your shoulder get tired from all your stirring?
Everytime Howard posts he says something infantile. It is always very insignificant and has nothing to do with the topic.
10:47
Do you ever get tired of enabling a troublemaker? Do you not realize that those like you are the real pot stirrers (enablers) who perpetuate trouble when it gets started. When the drama starts, the real troublemaker sits back and watches the action. That just seems so sick and twisted.
Looks like the cowardly enabler has high-jacked another topic without ever addressing the issue of that topic.
The point is, there will be other times when the flags are ordered to be lowered to half staff, and the question is whether we want the Flags displayed properly or if we want to just continue doing as we have and be seen as a bunch of ignominious clowns content with our ignorance and faulted traditions.
It's as simple as this:
1. Only the president or governor or mayor of D.C. has the authority to have the American Flag lowered to half staff, or half mast if you are on a ship.
2. The Flag is raised to the height of the staff then slowly lowered to approximately half the distance to the top.
3. In situations where the Flag is permanently attached to a staff or too small to be lowered to half staff a strip of black ribbon may be attached to the staff at the same spot as the top of the flag.
4. At all times the Flag is to be treated with respect and dignity.
Certainly there are other requirements for properly displaying the Flag but these were the primary topics of this thread.
wab
No, calling me an enabler was a lie you manufactured. Shame on you. The real enablers are those that promote troublemaking and strife. Can you see the irony in all that?
Why on God's earth do you keep trying to make a point and keep something stirred up about the flag? We are a very patriotic community here, and we just don't need all this division and strife. Why does this have to be?
Why don't you call James Malone and tell him he needs to use black ribbon on his flags from now on when there is the need for half staff viewing? I'm sure he will appreciate your helpfulness.
Barrett, I hate to break this information to you, but you are seen as one of the biggest clowns in Giles County. Be careful what you call the rest of the citizens. Your reputation needs not much of a presentation. You speak for your small group and let the county officials speak for the rest of us. You should stop acting like you are an elected official.
You don't have to be an elected official to point out wrong.
Mr. Barrett, please ignore the above comments. You are doing the people of the county a big favor by pointing out the wrongs. You have helped us a lot.Keep up the good work.4;05 you are right. We need more with backbones like MR. Barrett.To many have their heads in the sand and think anything an elected official does is O.K. Maybe someday we will have better mentality in our county as a whole.
5:07
Are you by any chance barrett posting anonymously? Sure sounds like it. If not, definitely an enabler of strife posting on your behalf.
8;05 No I am not Mr. Barrett. I am not as smart as he is. I am not an enabler of strife, just hope things improve in our government,county,state and federal.
Janet's enabler is going to have the last word. Then if no one post back she will post again like it's someone else. lol
9:46
Well, my apologies; your post just sounded so much like barrett. But I do hope you are at least as smart as he is.
I think we all want to see things improve in government and particularly with that bunch in Washington.
10:12
I am the one that lie was started on me by allen barrett. The true enablers are those like you who just have to keep something stirred up all the time. I never post as someone else but truly wish I could have the last word. Then the enablers of strife would not have to rebut everything I say.
7:38 If you ain't a enabler why do you keep answering to it. I grew up with three brothers and two sisters whenever my mommy are daddy wanted one of us they called our name and we went running to see what they wanted.
When Jimmy was called I never answered because I wasn't Jimmy. If your name ain't enabler then just stay quiet till they call your real name.
10:40 GREAT POST. I agree 100%.
Some folks just have to have the attention...can't seem to get it from a positive direction so take it from any source. Use anonymous for a name and enabler as a trigger. I understand people wanting to remain unknown for a variety of reasons but if you gonna stay anonymous then just shut up and stop assuming any post to "anonymous" is addressed to you.
10:40
I answer to it because I know it's me he refers to when he tells that lie. What's so hard to understand about that.
But we know who the true enablers are, and I am not one of them. Is this argument what this blog is all about? Is there anything to really discuss other than Mrs.Vanzant and/or the coommissioners, particularly those in District 7
Does anyone know anything new about the coomissoners in District 7?
Now 2:01 you can post again and try to be last one to post.
No, but if there was anything negative to say about them I am certain it would be all over this blog.
Ok, your turn.
Does your computer ding every time someone post?
4:03
Only when a troublemaker or the enablers of strife post. Donb't you want to discuss black ribbons on flags, or would you rather try to be cute with me?
It is truly amazing that a discussion regarding the FLAG of our nation has reverted to bickering between a bunch of want-to-be's that have nothing better to do than bitch at each other.
Cannot any of you who protest your collective innocence just lay off each other or are all of you nothing more than a bunch of playground bullies who insist having the last word regardless of the subject at hand?
The last few posts are nothing more than piss and moan of those who have inflated egos and self worth
6:48
But isn't that what this blog is about?
Giles County has made the news again.
WSM TV
5:14
Why Is it the McAlister trial? I hope they come for that to do a follow-up story.
Sorry 5:41 not the McAlister trial.
Watch the news more and post less and you will see what it is.
8:10
I only post in response to enablers. Perhaps I post twice as much because there are two of you guys?
I plan to be there to see Mr. McAlister's name cleared. Will you be there?
Hope to be. Think threte will be setting room? When will it be?
Check WSM TV, Nashville, TN.
You may think I shouldn't of posted Giles made the news, but figured everyone saw it.
When is the trial. I want to be there and see the real thing. I'm tired of gossip. Never know if true or not.
Will someone please tell what the subject was on TV about Giles cunty? Thanks
It was about a meth lab discovered at Ardmore. Guess the enablers can't blame that one on Mrs. Vanzant.
How about Richland School. Lots of news today. Can't blame on Barrett or Vanzant.
Sad day again for Richland and the school system.
You can only blame it on the girl that did it. You can't blame Jackson or the school board either. Although I am sure that some will try. This family has a good reputation of being educators and a nice christian family. It looks like it was abad decision on her part. Nothing more than that really. Richland and the school system will easily get past it.
9:20 A very bad decision on the part of the teacher, punishable by law. Obviously the Christian teachings or what is instilled as responsibilites of a teacher did not sink in. Some compassion needs to be shown toward the youth involved.
I don't think anyone will blame Jackson, principal or school board for what happen. It just put a bad stain on Giles County.
Any time something happen in Giles County it's a bad thing for other to see.
Richland School has had bad things happen that couldn't be helped.
11:51,
Compassion for the youth involved? Are you kidding? Do you mean to tell me that a 17 year old girl doesn't know the difference between right and wrong? Give me a break. That is what is wrong with this country. Too much compassion for those that should be responsible for themselves. I don't care if the profession is teacher, doctor, lawyer, preacher or President Clinton, people are going to do bad things. That is why it is good that Haslam and other good government leaders are wanting to make teachers prove themselves.
4:54, are you saying that there is nothing wrong with a teacher having sex with a minor? A 17 year old while not an infant is still a child. Unless she is a drop out she would have to be a student. She may not have been a student of this teachers but still a student. A twelve year old knows the difference between right and wrong but would you want them having sex with an adult. The teacher is in the wrong here or any other adult who has sex with a child, and yes 17 is a child by law. Yes, people are going to do bad things and this teacher did. I don't blame anyone but the teacher. They school system has no wrong doing in this unless that teacher stays in the system.
Although a 17 year old is not quite an adult they are still vulnerable and easily led by adults, and by law are still classed as children. Glad the male adult was also arrested in this case.
5:32 & 7:39
Has this been sweep under the rug. Don't hear anymore about it.
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