With both the St. Ignace Auto Show and the Fourth of July parades coming just around the corner, it seems fitting to spend a minute or two looking at the United States Code relating to respect for the American flag. Title 36, Chapter 10, section 177 of the United States Code addresses what is required when the American flag is presented during a parade, which includes standing, facing the flag, removing hats (men), and placing the right hand near the left shoulder.

Over the past few years, I have noticed more and more of the residents and visitors to St. Ignace respond in this way when the Color Guard marches past during our parades. I think this is great. I love seeing parents giving directions to their children and thereby teaching them proper respect for our flag. I love to see the retired military taking pride in their country by showing respect for the flag. I love to see patriotism displayed simply by standing and sometimes applauding or saluting.

Let’s use the opportunity to show our patriotism and our respect for the American flag during the popular St. Ignace parades coming up. It is as important or more important today then it was more than a century ago.

Barb Davis

Moran