Social media and Aid and Comforting an Enemy, can the argument be made?

2020-09-23T15:38:17-04:00

If left Leaning Liberal Karen and her Antifa cronies decide to burn a US Flag, record the event and post it on Social Media, it is then play of various news agencies around the world including Alqueda and other terrorist sites. Does this constitute "Aid and Comfort to an Enemy?" If they do it multiple times, would that change it? I look forward to all of your opinions on this one.

Response by LTC Eugene Chu made Sep 23 at 2020 3:56 PM

2020-09-23T15:56:22-04:00

Look up the SCOTUS case of Texas V. Johnson. While flag burning may be insulting to some, 1989 Supreme Court case considered it freedom of expression under First Amendment

https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/law-protects-flag-burning-united-states/story?id=43855624

How the Law Protects Flag Burning in the United States

“Nobody should be allowed to burn the American flag,” Trump posted.

Response by LTC Eugene Chu made Sep 23 at 2020 4:00 PM

2020-09-23T16:00:04-04:00

As another rebuttal to your loaded post, burning a flag (in accordance with regulations) is considered a dignified process for disposing of unserviceable banners. In fact, this article posted includes pictures of our fellow service members performing flag burning ceremonies as part of official duty

https://www.defense.gov/Explore/Features/Story/Article/2206946/how-to-properly-dispose-of-worn-out-us-flags/

How to Properly Dispose of Worn-Out U.S. Flags

Just as there's etiquette for displaying Old Glory, there's also etiquette for disposing of flags in a dignified manner.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2020 4:13 PM

2020-09-23T16:13:58-04:00

Unfortunately, it would not (IMHO) mean "giving aid and comfort to the enemy" as they have not been officially declared "Enemies of the State."