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Would You Take Down that Flag?

I want to ask a couple of questions.

1. Is it right that someone comes into our country, sets up a business, and then flies their country’s flag over ours?

2. Is it right when such a thing happens that a citizen removes the offending display?

3. You who are citizens of the United States: Would you move to Mexico, set up a business there, then blatantly and disrespectfully fly the US flag above the Mexican flag? You who are citizens of any other country: Would you disrespect any foreign country that was your host by flying your native flag in an unlawful and rude way?

4. Would you have taken down that flag as did Jim Brossert?

5. Should Jim Brossert be prosecuted?

6. Would Jesus take down such a flag?

A Veteran from Reno, Nev. has hit headlines after he took matters into his own hands yesterday and tore down a Mexican flag that was being illegally flown above a U.S. flag at a local business.

Local news station krnv News 4 had received calls yesterday afternoon from angry residents complaining about the Mexican flag. When the station sent a reporter to investigate the Veteran took the opportunity to make a statement in front of the cameras.

The man commented “I’m Jim Brossert and I took this flag down in honor of my country with a knife from the United States army. I’m a veteran, I am not going to see this done to my country. if they want to fight us, then they need to be men, and they need to come and fight us, but I want somebody to fight me for this flag. They’re not going to get it back.

Story by Steve Watson of Infowires.

The entire story and the video is here. The video is awesome, shows the flags flying, Jim Brossett taking care of the situation, and the reaction of the storekeeper. Please watch this, and tell me your reaction.

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My devotional blog is here.

 

By Shirley Buxton

Still full of life and ready to be on the move, Shirley at 84 years old feels blessed to have lots of energy and to be full of optimism. She was married to Jerry for 63 years, and grieves yet at his death in August of 2019. They have 4 children, 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren...all beautiful and highly intelligent--of course. :)

46 replies on “Would You Take Down that Flag?”

WHERE IN THE WORLD DO SOME OF YOU THINK THE RIGHT TO DO WHAT THIS MAN DID CAME FROM? IT CAME FROM THE DEATHS OF YOUR FOREFATHERS TO PRESERVE THE RIGHT TO EXPRESS FREE SPEECH, FIGHT FOR OUR FREEDOM, AND BE COMMMITTED TO THE THOUGHTS OUR FOUNDERS HAD, IN CASE YOU FORGOT – THEY ARE IN THE CONSTITUTION – THIS FINE MAN WAS A VETERAN – HOW MANY OF YOU THAT POST COMMENTS HERE ARE VETERANS? I BET NONE! YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED FOR CRITISIZING THIS MAN.

Thank you, Willy.

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1. I don’t know. It probably depends on the context and the intent with which it was done.

2. No. Being offended doesn’t give you the right to trash or steal somebody else’s private property.

3. No. I generally don’t fly flags at all.

4. No.

5. Yes, and he should pay damages to the barkeep for the destruction of property.

6. No, not unless Jesus stood for vandalism and petty thieving. I don’t think that He did.

Jonathan Payne states “There is a reason for the laws that govern the display of our flag.” But in fact — in spite of what the media have repeatedly, inaccurately claimed — there are no laws that regulate how private citizens can or cannot display an American flag on their own property. The Federal Flag Code (4 U.S.C. §§ 4-10) offers only a set of voluntary guidelines “for the use of such civilians or civilian groups or organizations as may not be required to conform with regulations promulgated by one or more executive departments of the Government of the United States” (4 U.S.C. § 5). It has no enforcement section and assigns no penalties. Unless you are employed by the military or a government agency, there is no federal agency with the authority to impose binding regulations on how you, as a private citizen, display a flag on your own private property.

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Thank you, C. Strickland. I agree with every word you have said, and we must continue to have the courage to speak our thoughts–politely, respectfully, but firmly.

Through the years I have had lots of contact with Hispanics, and find them to be loyal, hardworking, beautiful people. I have nothing against them personally, but they need to be here legally–or not at all. Those with less than pure motives have become emboldened by our lack of firmness against illegal immigration, and thus they act in this outlandish, despicable way.

God bless you…and God help us all.

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God bless Jim Brossert. Yes, I said God.
And God bless America. I am so tired of
trying to make the Mexicans happy. We
Americans have bent over backwords. I’m
tired of it. Oh, I’m sorry. I forget they are
insulted by the word Mex i cans. Although
we are Amer i cans. As a whole, they seem
to be insulted by just about everything. But,
not our money. For such a proud people,they
certainley like to get all the FREE STUFF they
can. How many legal Americans have to work
to support one illegal and family. And, how long
do we have to work, so they can have free
medical. Many Americans have NO insurance.
And whats a couple more years of work untill
we can draw social security. Why not just have
a box to mark on our taxes. How much would
you like to donate to illegals? Those who want
to, could give as much as they desire for medical,
for education or anything they like.But, surely
even the bleeding hearts can see enough is enough. It is pass crossing the line when Hispanics fly their flag over the American flag.
It’s a slap in the face. Blatant disrespect for this
country is becoming more and more obvious.

C.Strickland

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Good morning, Maverickti.

First, let me thank you for your part in serving our country. You are remembered and appreciated by many. It galls me to think there would be a chance for our troops to feel unsupported and unappreciated.

Sure, we’ll keep loving the liberal among us, always aware of the rights of every American to his/her opinion and to the voicing of those thoughts. It’s a rare country we have–the United States of America. God bless her…and you.

Be well and please come here often.

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Shirley, what a diverse group of answers to your questions! As Jonathan pointed out in his first response, “Jesus cleared the money changers from the synagogue because it was (and is) holy unto God.” Is not the Flag of The Unites States of America not holy for Americans? I do belive that it is. We use a simple joining of cloth to bring U.S. together, just as Christians use a simple binding of printed paper to unite around the world under the most recognised book in the world, The Bible.
Shirley, I am a baptised Roman Catholic, serving my 19th year in the Army. When I saw Jim doing what he did, I cheered! When I read responses like those posted by helen1, I prayed. We need more Jims and more Jonathans and more diplomatic Shirleys. And we still love the helen1s. Maverickti, out.

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Thank you, R GUY for being here and for your remarks. I certainly agree that we can be good Americans and at the same time devoted followers of Jesus.

Hi, JEN. Help me now…I may not be savvy concerning teen-agers talk…but what do you mean “that was crazy?” Do your crazy mean good, as in bad means good with you kids sometimes–or do you mean insane?

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1. No.

2. Yes and no. Mr. Brossert should actually have asked the law enforcement officials to deal with the matter. Of course, citizens do have the right and the duty to stop crimes if they are able.

3. No. I have lived in four other countries, and I would never consider flying the American flag over their flag. In fact, I have tried to repect my host country by not being overtly patriotic in any way toward the US.

4. I don’t totally agree with Mr. Bossert’s actions, but I might very well do what he did. It would be a hard thing to see those flags like that and do nothing.

5. Maybe. I would love to have the spotlight shining on this crucial issue. I don’t think he should be punished, however.

6. I don’t know. I doubt that he would. He would probably ignore the issue entirely. But we’re not him. Jesus also didn’t get married, but it’s not wrong for Christians to marry. Jesus apparently didn’t own a home, but it’s okay for Christians to own a home. I think it is okay for us to be good American citizens and devoted followers of Jesus.

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Well, there you go, JONATHAN. A job offer.

Don’t hire ESTHER for your secretary…well, maybe. She was quick to notice her error.

CATHERINE should work out as liaison for your French connections.

Thanks to all of you for your time and interest in our beautiful country.

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Jonathon, are you by chance, an atorney? If not, you should be. You would be a good one and I would hire you………..

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After reading the comments, I would like to say that it I too agree with you Sis Buxton. Micheal’s is the finishing touch.
I still hold a french passport, but this is where I live and my country of adoption. Could I go to France and fly the american flag higher than the french anywhere there? Absolutely not! I’d might even be arrested.
Different subject, but right now I am appalled at the news from my homeland.
GOD BLESS AMERICA – THE LAND OF THE FREE

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Q: Jonathan, “Does being “God’s Country – one in which we proclaim His truth and His righteousness” – really have anything to do with which flag is on top?” was the question I asked. Or don’t I have a right to ask questions? Do I, too, have freedom of speech? Or is it just you?

A: Apparently you took my comments personally and read a tone that was not there. I simply stated that my answer was not addressing your question. And as far as your freedom of speech goes I do believe that is one of the things being addressed here. To answer though is of course, yes.

Q: I am a Christian and an American, too. of course, a foreign flag ought not fly above the American flag on American soil. BUT I am a Christian first, before I am an American. And I think that the best way to handle this is NOT to start a ruckus over a flag.

A: Each person answers to their own conscience. God motivates some to preach overseas while others tend the flock here. It is up to God how you are called. Some will feel moved to address the issue while others will not. However it is more than a ruckus over a flag, but the symbol of the soveriegnty of America. There is a reason for the laws that govern the display of our flag.

Q: I think your “throes of the usurpation” statement is just silly rhetoric, which I can say unless I don’t have freedom of speech, or Shirley decides to block my comment (which is her right).

A: Again the personal animosity. I am sorry you feel attacked at whatever level. However you feel that the silly rhetoric does not apply, when you wake up one morning with yet another freedom repressed for the “common good” rest easy in the knowledge that the rhetoric is indeed silly.

Q: Belief in God is not “a moot point” in my life but rather it determines how I choose to live. I also choose to let you have the final word on the matter. Having the last word does not make one right or wrong.

A: That phrase was not aimed at your life but the actions of a man determined to keep America’s flag preeiminent in his own country — America. And whether or not I have the last word is not necessary or germaine to what is being discussed. However, as you pointed out, it will not make me right or wrong. Just another Christian with an opinion — much like you.

Be blessed, be loved and be at peace,

~ Jonathan

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When Jesus went in the temple with a whip in His hand, it wasn’t with political correctness; it was because the temple was being defiled. I look at Mr Brossert’s action’s as the same. You defile our country, you must stand to be corrected. If religion must be brought in to this subject, I think Jesus set the tone on what’s accceptable or not. GOD BLESS AMERICA

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DANIEL, allegiance would be a wonderful topic for a blog post. Loyalty and dedication to a cause, a country, a belief are “priceless.”

JANA, I am not a veteran, but somehow I can imagine how it must feel to see our flag disrespected, knowing the price our troops have paid.

DEAN, I can’t speak for Helen, of course, but I do believe she would be consistent, and would call for peacefully leaving any country’s flag hoisted above our own. She has said she doesn’t agree with the flag being there, but would leave it alone.

ROCHELLE, I value so much the comments of my readers, and you’re right to appreciate them. I certainly do also. Love and value our country? YES! More and more as she is faced with much turmoil and many challenges.

ESTHER, your heart’s in the right place…at least in my opinion. 🙂

HELEN, of course you have the freedom to speak. Not every country permits such a thing…blessed we are to live in such a one–the greatest of all–the United States of America.

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We must respect our country, its flag and everything we stand for. Does anybody remember “I pledge allegiance to the flag…”. Also I tried to click the link and it said the address was invalid I will try later.

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If we were to go into Iran, Iraq, Japan, England, Russia, Mexico or any other country, place the U.S. flag above the native country flag, do you think it would cause a ruckus? If so, why?

I have no problem with someone being proud of their native country but when they choose to come to America and want the freedoms America affords, they should honor the U.S. flag above any other!

I do agree with Helen that it may have been more prudent for Mr. Brossert to try a more peaceful method. However, do we know if this flagrant display had been peacefully addressed? Had the angry citizens tried to convince the man to change the position of the flags? There is always more to every side of the stories we hear about in the media!! We should be careful about what we assume! I also agree with Jonathan that the foundations of this free country are being eroded and that illegal immigration is a big factor. Though the illegal immigrant wants what America offers, he has no true tie to this country and therefore may not respect it like he would if he had gone through the difficulties faced to become a citizen!! Or if like Mr. Brossert, a U.S. veteran, the immigrant had fought for this country and hated to see it disrespected!

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Helen, if it doesn’t matter which flag is on top, would a Jolly Roger upset you? Or the Iranian flag? I am of the opinion that this issue is far deeper in meaning than just unfurled cloth. This flag stands for the personal
freedoms we all enjoy. To not give it the correct place on the pole is , in my opinion, near treason.
And that is my last word on this subject.

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As always, Sister Buxton, the comments here are almost as thought provoking as the post. Wow. You know, sometimes I think people do things just to get attention. And sometimes I think we give them too much. It sounds like this guy got his point across. Not that I agree with him, at all. I love this country. I haven’t always appreciated it like I should have, but the older I get, I recognize the blessing of our freedoms. I don’t know what this guys thrue intentions were, but I know when I read things like this it makes me even more thankful to be an American.

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Jonathan, “Does being “God’s Country – one in which we proclaim His truth and His righteousness” – really have anything to do with which flag is on top?” was the question I asked. Or don’t I have a right to ask questions? Do I, too, have freedom of speech? Or is it just you?

I am a Christian and an American, too. of course, a foreign flag ought not fly above the American flag on American soil. BUT I am a Christian first, before I am an American. And I think that the best way to handle this is NOT to start a ruckus over a flag.

I think your “throes of the usurpation” statement is just silly rhetoric, which I can say unless I don’t have freedom of speech, or Shirley decides to block my comment (which is her right).

Belief in God is not “a moot point” in my life but rather it determines how I choose to live. I also choose to let you have the final word on the matter. Having the last word does not make one right or wrong.

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Does being “God’s Country – one in which we proclaim His truth and His righteousness” – really have anything to do with which flag is on top?

That was not the question asked, nor was it the answer to your question. The answer is that America is in the throes of the usurption of her identity and sovereignty. With illegal immigration issues looming on the horizon that takes two diametrically opposed positions, it is natural for an American citizen to feel threatened in his own back yard.

With lobby and SIGs (Special Interest Groups) whittling away at the foundation principles of the republic and it’s laws many feel the need to act. Does being a Christian have anything to do with which flag is on top? No. But being an American does. Symbols are meant to represent the ideals and ideology behind them, the flag is no different.

Does being a Christian stop us from being an American? No. And in that lies the reason for the action taken in this situation. Whether you believe in God or not is a moot point in whether or not you believe in America.

I am a Christian AND American. Long may that banner wave! Blessings.

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Helen, I really think Jim Brossert was not engaged in witnessing for God during that episode. I don’t even know whether or not he claims to be a Christian.

I believe he was witnessing for America and for patriotism…in his way…in his time…as he thought best for the moment.

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Good afternoon, Tommyjoe.

I believe I read somewhere that a person in such a situation should indeed do as you have said–have two flagpoles side and side, and display them in that manner. Maybe you can check it out, but I believe that is the correct method.

Thanks for your input.

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I’ve seen flags flown side-by-side. What about suggesting THAT before taking matters into your own hands by taking down a flag (perhaps indeed put up there by someone who still has pride in their land of nativity?). I’d first want to find out the reasons for this “flag flying.” I too am proud of my country, but above all I’M A CHRISTIAN. Jerusalem which is above is free which is the mother of us all. Does God value one nation above another? I know that God is angry w/the wicked every day, and those nations that forget God are wrong to do so, but there’s a peaceful solution I believe. How about flying the flags side by side? If our government said it was illegal to fly another country’s flag above our own then the government should take it down. Again, I’m proud of my country but think I’d seek a peaceful solution before taking matters into my own hands.

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Does being “God’s Country – one in which we proclaim His truth and His righteousness” – really have anything to do with which flag is on top?

I wouldn’t like it, but I’d leave the flag alone. How on earth can you witness to someone by starting a fight over a flag?

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Jonathan, thank you for the thoughtful, extensive post.

Is America still “God’s Country?” What constitutes a country that God would call His? If we look at the close ramifications of that question, we would be forced to admit that “God’s people”–the Jews, as a whole certainly didn’t react in a godly way when Jesus came to the earth. Yet, they are His people.

I believe the only way we have any hope of being “God’s Country” is that enough of us continue to proclaim His truth and His righteousness.

Our only hope of maintaining our United States of America as we have known it in the past, is to have such courage as does Jim Brossert, and as do you and others who have spoken up for our country in this column today.

We must not allow ourselves to be intimidated, nor have our voices muted into silence. We cannot continue in our complacency. Our country is too wonderful. Our forefathers have paid much too high a price.

Again, thank you for your interest and the time you have taken to post here.

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1. Is it right that someone comes into our country, sets up a business, and then flies their country’s flag over ours?

A: Of course not. They are supposed to be here to find a better life, a different set of rules and the opportunities that freedom brings. This is uniquely American and as such America should be honored. If not, then why are they here?

2. Is it right when such a thing happens that a citizen removes the offending display?

A: Yes indeed. America is made up of people that believe in the rights and freedoms (that word again) that makes us a soveriegn nation. It is the people that uphold the values and laws of the land. It is good to note that every politician, law enforcemet officer, solidier or bureaucrat is first an American citizen. Many in politics may forget that, but that is the power that is America. God put that in place for His Kids.

3. You who are citizens of the United States: Would you move to Mexico, set up a business there, then blatantly and disrespectfully fly the US flag above the Mexican flag? You who are citizens of any other country: Would you disrespect any foreign country that was your host by flying your native flag in an unlawful and rude way?

A: Of course not. But we see diversity being the mantra of the PC crowd rather than the true intent of variety.

You may have bouquet of flowers with several different kind, daisies, pansies, bluebells, et al, but they are still flowers. This is variety. But when you have flowers, plants, weeds and fruit then you have diversity, each unique and unto it’s own by nature, different and unblended.

America is supposed to be the melting pot of the world, a blended country. Differing of face, voice and expression but of one citizenry, one purpose and one society. Cultures may differ, but our allegience and identity should be American.

4. Would you have taken down that flag as did Jim Brossert?

A: Yes.

5. Should Jim Brossert be prosecuted?

A: No. What he did was within the realm of law. But more importantly within the realm of being an American.

6. Would Jesus take down such a flag?

A: Jesus cleared the money changers from the synagogue because it was (and is) holy unto God. The real question is America still “God’s Country”?

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Thank you, Mark. I’d like to hear your take on the response of Jesus were He here physically today. Do you think scripture gives us any basis for understanding what His response might be?

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Love it, Dean. I can see you doing just that.

Love your analogy. If we are too weak and wimpy to defend our country here at home, are we not “wasting” the blood of those who through the decades have died in far away lands to protect us, our children, our grandchildren–our freedoms.

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