Our flag is a symbol of "Freedom" that was won by defeating an oppressive government. Thus, we honour that symbol as a way of remembering what this country is all about and understand what individual freedom means. Our Constitution limits the power of government and protects the individual against the excesses of oppressive government.
So it would seem The People ,in this country, see the flag as more than a mere national ensign.
Those who have fought under that banner have even a stronger affection for the flag than those who have not. Every Veteran is entitled to a flag covering their casket at their funeral and it is presented to the next-of-kin after being folded by the Honor Guard.
We buried a young Marine a few weeks back, killed in action in Iraq. Members of the VFW, American Legion, Marine Corps League, and others attended the funeral. Retired Marines were in their Dress Blues, Active Duty Marines were there in Dress Blues, others were wearing Red Blazers as members of the Marine Corp League, other Veterans wore their headgear.
The sight of the Flag, smell of cordite following the firing of the salute, and the sound of Taps made for a very emotional experience.
Yes, that Flag is special to us.