The American Flag is a symbol of freedom, liberty, and human rights, and should not be taken for granted. The military worked hard to earn the freedom that American citizens enjoy today. Soldiers continue to protect this freedom here and abroad and as a result are currently in combat overseas. The role of American citizens is to pay these soldiers with utmost respect, however, some people tend to forget or take these privileges for granted. When someone destroys the American flag, they are disrespecting the United States of America and its military. Therefore, Johnson should be punished for the desecration of the American Flag because it goes against this country’s values and what the military has long fought for and protected.

In 1984, Gregory Lee Johnson burned a flag outside of the Republican National Convention in Dallas, Texas. During the flag burning, protesters shouted, “America the red, white, and blue, we spit on you.” (Protesters 400). Johnson, along with others, were not happy with the policies of President Ronald Reagan. The question is, if someone strongly disagrees with …show more content…
For example, Brennan states; "If there is a bedrock principle underlying the First Amendment, it is that the government may not prohibit the expression of an idea simply because society finds the idea itself offensive or disagreeable." (Justice William Brennan 1). Brennan failed to consider Texas state law when he proclaimed his thought on the issue. Texas law states that desecration of the United States flag and Texas State flag is illegal if done in a displeasing manner that offends citizens. When Johnson was burning the flag, angry protesters shouted, “America the red, white, and blue, we spit on you.” (Protesters 400). Should this action be taken in vain? Since Johnson burned the flag out of anger and offended many people, he should be punished for his