The American flag holds a sacred spot in the hearts of many United States citizens, as is evident by the feedback of NASA’s support of an international flag project .
It is not surprising that a veteran of the armed forces would become infuriated when someone disrespects Old Glory intentionally and uses it to further their own agenda. Richard Pierce is retired from the U.S. Marines and served in the Vietnam War. When he heard that the Westboro Baptist Church was going to picket the funeral of Beau Biden, he decided to show up in support of Joe Biden’s son. However, when he arrived and saw members of the Westboro Baptist Church disrespecting the flag, he snapped and reacted in a way that he felt was appropriate at the time.
According to the Blaze , Pierce showed up at the funeral to participate in a counter protest against the Westboro Baptist Church and in support of Joe Biden’s son. While there, he witnessed a female protester dragging the American flag underfoot across the ground. He was infuriated at the act of disrespect against everything he fought for while in the service. He wanted to act out on his anger, but also was cognizant enough to realize he would be stooping down to Westboro Baptist Church’s level if he went too far.
“[She was]walking across the highway, dragging our flag under her feet.I lost my temper and the only way that I could demonstrate that is spill my coffee on them,”
An officer witnessed the event and promptly arrested Pierce for disorderly conduct, according to the Washington Post . However, he is not upset that he was penalized for his actions. Instead, he is upset that his actions unintentionally brought news coverage to the Westboro Baptist Church, yet he would do it again if faced with the same scenario.
“So many people have died in defense of that flag. I don’t care who you are, you are not going to disrespect the flag. And if I have to go to jail to defend that flag, I’m going to do it,”
Police were escorting the Westboro Baptist Church members to their car at the time of the incident. Although glad their protest was being disbanded by the authorities, Pierce was not going to idly stand by as the female member disrespected the American flag. Although he admits to falling into their publicity trap by reacting, he does not regret throwing the coffee.
[Photo By Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images News]
