***Note: This rant is an incomplete thought. I just wanted to get it out there, as it was bugging me. ***
As you may know, I live in Charleston, SC. When I listen to the radio, I listen to 96 Wave. On the station, they have a guy who does editorials, who calls himself "The Southern Avenger." It is important to point out that the Avenger wears a wrestling mask with the Confederate flag on it when making public appearances. The Southern Avenger is a smart guy, a great writer, and sometimes I even agree with him.
In his latest piece, which aired today, he says:
"For example – as we all know, the Pope just died. Most people liked the old man and are making a point to pay their respects. In Wisconsin, this meant orders from the governor to fly all flags at half staff for the entire week. A nice gesture, right? Not according to the "Freedom from Religion Foundation," -whoever in hell that is - who believe that honoring the Pope in this manner is an endorsement of Catholicism. "
What really got me about this is that, at least in the US, the pope is a sitting foreign dignitary. The Holy See received it's sovereignty from Italy on February 11, 1929, and the US recognizes this status. Additionally , the Pope is recognized as the Chief of State. This means that the President ordering our flag to be flown at half-staff, yes half-staff, is covered under US code title 4,7 section m:
In the event of the death of other officials or foreign dignitaries, the flag is to be displayed at half-staff according to Presidential instructions or orders, or in accordance with recognized customs or practices not inconsistent with law.
As you can see, it is appropriate, and not a separation of church and state issue to honor the memory of a Foreign Head of State by flying our flag at half-staff.
Enough for now..
Ciao
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