Spangled, entangled in controversy

Nothing knew... Patriots have been arguing since the dawn, of the American Revolution, as to how best, or even properly to carry, fly, and yes, even fold, a flag (for proper storage, which is yet another). The appearance of which seem to be 'flagging' except on the most special of occasions. Such as when we come together to commemorate those who have paid the "ultimate sacrifice" to gain, then preserve, the most basic of freedoms..."life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness". The flying of flags accompanied, of course, by the singing of the National Anthem. Whether you're going to put out your flag, or put up a banner, to be technically in line with the second to the last one, make sure its adorned with stars (aka "spangled"). Here comes the tangled part...

Finial touches... And if you're going to be true to the tradition you fly it at half-mast from dawn to noon, (adorning it with black mourning ribbon if your pole is not the adjustable type) then "briskly!" raising it to full-staff at noon...a (rarely seen?) gesture "which symbolizes the nation's resolve to honor the sacrifices of fallen service members..." While the nation as a whole seems a bit unresolved, may we always, not just on the last Monday in May, but each and every day, be proud to wave this star studded banner and always remember what it took to get to this point - - which I intend, assuming I'm home in time from the "Circle of Honor" service....walk briskly to our flag and remove the black ribbon (that I tied on, just prior to "dawn's early light") located strategically just below what's technically referred to as the "finial" (which most often take the shape of an eagle). It's the least I can do, on behalf of all the millions that gave the most.