It is fair to say to the Brits the American Flag is just a piece of cloth. It is also fair to say that to an American it is far more than a piece of cloth.
Not to me Sas, and neither is my own. But: you can buy stars and stripes underpants in America; and the '72 Olympic swimmers wore s&s Speedos. I was at the ladies' footie semi at Old Trafford last night: every kind of yank wore every kind of Old Glory in every style you can imagine, and some sat on them. The flag of each nation WAS grounded for the anthems, which were sung or respected depending on your support. I detected no offence except for the referee (she was crap).
I read your posts with interest, usually agree. Think you are wrong here.
Regards,
CG