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Cyrano

(15,388 posts)
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 09:04 AM Apr 2024

What does a vehicle flying two flags say about the driver?

I occasionally see a car in my neighborhood bearing American flags on each side above the front doors. The windows are tinted, so I've never seen who's inside. But I tend to make certain assumptions about the car's owner:

* The owner is a male.

* He considers himself to be a patriot.

* He needs to make a very public statement about his "patriotism."

* He considers himself to be far more patriotic than others.

* He's a Republican and perhaps a MAGA.

It's possible that all of my assumptions are wrong. However I personally believe that anyone who has the need to fly two American flags from their car is a screaming asshole.

What assumption(s) would you make about the owner of the car?

(PS: Yes, I know this post is trivia. I just needed to change the topic from the guy on trial.)

107 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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What does a vehicle flying two flags say about the driver? (Original Post) Cyrano Apr 2024 OP
My Next door neighbor samplegirl Apr 2024 #1
Obviously proud to be in the United States. I see a lot of Puerto Rican flags. jimfields33 Apr 2024 #36
I hink you are nort really undestanding NoRethugFriends Apr 2024 #60
My new neighbor 3 houses down end of court Tree Lady Apr 2024 #75
That he is caucasian. KarenS Apr 2024 #2
They are never Vets SeanHG Apr 2024 #3
That he likes having lousy gas mileage? Clash City Rocker Apr 2024 #4
That in reality they are anti-American fascists aka MAGA RAB910 Apr 2024 #5
Proudly displaying that they never served in the military. Emile Apr 2024 #6
Yep. They love do law enforcement / military cosplay 617Blue Apr 2024 #8
Nonetheless, he's likely armed. Cyrano Apr 2024 #11
More than likely. nt 617Blue Apr 2024 #13
That's why they're attracted to assault rifles. They pretend Emile Apr 2024 #90
Yes, much like Trump PatSeg Apr 2024 #27
While on a walk 2 years ago.... ProudMNDemocrat Apr 2024 #7
there would have been no room for the benington flag.(the snake that sez dont tread on my) AllaN01Bear Apr 2024 #15
Gadsden flag has the don't tread on me snake unblock Apr 2024 #47
In TN we can get license plates with the Benington flag on them Generic Brad Apr 2024 #53
Makes it easier for the FBI to find them I suppose PatSeg Apr 2024 #29
Yes, they make themselves immediately known to the "deep state FBI". Omnipresent Apr 2024 #35
Not exactly the brightest blokes on the planet PatSeg Apr 2024 #40
"Two years later, I have to assume the owner of that truck still is." Wednesdays Apr 2024 #95
Has a beard. 617Blue Apr 2024 #9
Not just a beard, but one of those ugly, tangled rat's-nest beards Aristus Apr 2024 #42
MAGAt neck beards Celerity Apr 2024 #54
See what I mean? Disgusting. Aristus Apr 2024 #55
Gross. A sign of lazy hygiene too. And they think that they are the cat's meow, eh? Again, gross. I keep expecting SWBTATTReg Apr 2024 #74
Those just look so uncomfortable. grumpyduck Apr 2024 #79
100% Trump trash. dalton99a Apr 2024 #10
Call him, "General Patton!" when all the neighbors will hear. Kid Berwyn Apr 2024 #12
"OLD Blood and Guts".... ProudMNDemocrat Apr 2024 #16
"Our blood. His guts." Kid Berwyn Apr 2024 #28
Back in 1987 when I toured the Military Academy at West Point.... ProudMNDemocrat Apr 2024 #31
I am a vet and I don't fly one maptap22 Apr 2024 #14
So does my husband. Honorable Duty, Service, and Discharge. ProudMNDemocrat Apr 2024 #17
Disabled female vet here Ananda62 Apr 2024 #30
Same here. Aristus Apr 2024 #45
Same here. paleotn Apr 2024 #46
Another vet here.. Permanut Apr 2024 #64
Disabled vet here. I fly it on appropriate holidays. I don't believe we should let it become the symbol of lunatics like Wonder Why Apr 2024 #98
These people are phony patriots. They use flags like they use 2 tennis balls in a nylon hadEnuf Apr 2024 #68
USMC 1961 - 1965 Ping Tung Apr 2024 #83
in the develoment where i lived before i moved into an apartment. a fam put up 1 of those gigantic AllaN01Bear Apr 2024 #18
Small brained bigots pfitz59 Apr 2024 #19
Much the same way as the Nazis,... magicarpet Apr 2024 #20
Good observation. I still remember Cyrano Apr 2024 #22
I always think " wow, they don't even remember where they live" NewHendoLib Apr 2024 #21
He's compensating... dlk Apr 2024 #23
He craves attention. patphil Apr 2024 #24
"Flags are bits of colored cloth that governments use first to shrink-wrap people's Ping Tung Apr 2024 #25
Whole rows of my neighbors fly flags, marybourg Apr 2024 #26
I don't get displaying a U.S. flag when you are in the United States. Sky Jewels Apr 2024 #59
I got annoyed when cops started wearing flag sleeve patches. Cyrano Apr 2024 #88
Ha ha, exactly. Sky Jewels Apr 2024 #89
Every country in the world has their own flags flying everywhere. Ace Rothstein Apr 2024 #96
Not nearly to the extent that the U.S. does. Sky Jewels Apr 2024 #106
Jingoistic. Exactly. marybourg Apr 2024 #100
We fly a California flag -- started during the Trump years, but we've kept it up since. LauraInLA Apr 2024 #103
Prone to road rage, speeding and aggressive driving. LeftInTX Apr 2024 #32
may have modified their diesel truck to "roll coal" on demand DBoon Apr 2024 #102
His dick size is slim to none, and slim just left town. RobertDevereaux Apr 2024 #33
I've notice people put two flags on their car during college football for their team. jimfields33 Apr 2024 #34
pro teams too oldsoftie Apr 2024 #77
Absolutely true. jimfields33 Apr 2024 #92
Its sad that seeing a US flag makes someone think its a BAD person at the wheel oldsoftie Apr 2024 #105
Being a patriot is like being a gentleman. If you have to publicly proclaim either, you're not. ancianita Apr 2024 #37
That he is "owning" the Libs. zanana1 Apr 2024 #38
I once a pickup truck flying a US flag from one side and a Confederate flag from the other. Ocelot II Apr 2024 #39
Screams insecurity and not in a good way. Joinfortmill Apr 2024 #41
There are exceptions. I saw a huge truck with two flags that said Trump Never. twodogsbarking Apr 2024 #43
The people on my block who fly American flags see themselves as more patriotic than the ones who don't. sop Apr 2024 #44
I have the national ensign and Marine Corps colors mounted at the steps of my house mymomwasright Apr 2024 #48
From an old grunt to an old jarhead: AverageOldGuy Apr 2024 #50
Ditto sarisataka Apr 2024 #86
Flags on/around my home AverageOldGuy Apr 2024 #49
I would think he's just proud to be an American. beaglelover Apr 2024 #51
I'm OK with the American flag(s). But trump, confederate and Gadsden flags get me quite agitated. Silent Type Apr 2024 #52
The kkkult self identifies. It makes them easier to avoid. onecaliberal Apr 2024 #56
That it's a controlling male who is desperately trying to compensate for insecurities. Sky Jewels Apr 2024 #57
Too much of a good thing. gulliver Apr 2024 #58
They are screaming out for attention and their message is: "I really do have a big dick." Doodley Apr 2024 #61
Others may not agree, but I have always said, one flag is patriotic. Two or more are propaganda. flashman13 Apr 2024 #62
It usually says they don't know U.S. Flag code. nt Gore1FL Apr 2024 #63
My brother in law and sister are Marines...not serving now. My sister won the highest Demsrule86 Apr 2024 #65
He owns a flag store . . . Richard D Apr 2024 #66
Around my Rebl2 Apr 2024 #67
Hmmm... lonely bird Apr 2024 #69
It says they are a General Officer in the US military? lol EX500rider Apr 2024 #70
It says we're about to hear a lot of stereotypes and confirmation bias Sympthsical Apr 2024 #71
Yes, after reading all the replies sarisataka Apr 2024 #85
It's a vehicle from the US Consulate. Either that, or Martin Eden Apr 2024 #72
Here in Los Angeles, we see a lot of cars with two flags: LauraInLA Apr 2024 #73
Exactly. People are making a big deal out of nothing. oldsoftie Apr 2024 #81
Why isn't it just a love of symmetry? Mordred Apr 2024 #76
I think you've covered just about everything. Lol ecstatic Apr 2024 #78
Also, the driver is probably armed. MineralMan Apr 2024 #80
We were in Canada a few days ago and saw phylny Apr 2024 #82
I had a small American flag over grumpyduck Apr 2024 #84
There is a US flag code. northern light Apr 2024 #87
I'd assume he is an American TexasDem69 Apr 2024 #91
It says to me, they have never read The Flag Code 4 USC §1 et. seq., and are displaying it incorrectly. rsdsharp Apr 2024 #93
Or perhaps he's a flag salesman 🤔 Bucky Apr 2024 #94
All that, and the driver doesn't care about traffic safety/other people's lives Attilatheblond Apr 2024 #97
We can not concede the idea of patriotism or the flag to the wingnuts! Thunderbeast Apr 2024 #99
He'll defend 'Murika with his life maxrandb Apr 2024 #101
The right has co-opted the flag. Chainfire Apr 2024 #104
guaranteed gun humping coward Skittles Apr 2024 #107

samplegirl

(13,984 posts)
1. My Next door neighbor
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 09:16 AM
Apr 2024

has a huge American flag flying next to her garage
On a pole. And on her garage wall a huge American flag lit up on the wall!
The guy right across the street the same thing!

 

jimfields33

(19,382 posts)
36. Obviously proud to be in the United States. I see a lot of Puerto Rican flags.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 10:57 AM
Apr 2024

People put up flags they like. I don’t understand the dislike.

Tree Lady

(13,282 posts)
75. My new neighbor 3 houses down end of court
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 12:11 PM
Apr 2024

Put up two American flags as soon as he moved in. I think they are proud and feel confident in their beliefs. I heard him ask his wife few months ago if she brought her gun with her to help me when dog attacked my dog, I was grateful of the help. His wife brought baseball bat but didn't have to use it because another neighbor got control of dog.

They seem like they have that I am tough and strong mentality.

KarenS

(5,050 posts)
2. That he is caucasian.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 09:16 AM
Apr 2024

Also,,,, someone that I would consider to be rude, crude and socially unacceptable as well as misogynistic and racist. but these are my assumptions.

Clash City Rocker

(3,546 posts)
4. That he likes having lousy gas mileage?
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 09:27 AM
Apr 2024

Flying a flag from a car creates wind resistance. That means he’ll pay a lot more for gas.

RAB910

(4,030 posts)
5. That in reality they are anti-American fascists aka MAGA
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 09:29 AM
Apr 2024

The Nazis considered themselves uber patriotic

617Blue

(2,472 posts)
8. Yep. They love do law enforcement / military cosplay
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 09:40 AM
Apr 2024

with the shit they bought from Cabelas but never served in either capacity.

PatSeg

(53,214 posts)
27. Yes, much like Trump
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 10:45 AM
Apr 2024

They like everything military and police except doing the job OR the real people who actually do serve.

They are still eight years old playing cops and robbers or war.

ProudMNDemocrat

(20,897 posts)
7. While on a walk 2 years ago....
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 09:38 AM
Apr 2024

I saw a huge Pickup truck with 3 flags on it as I came to a busy intersection.

A CONFEDERATE flag on the front grill of the truck.
An American flag.
A Trump flag.

All I could think of was "What a fucking idiot! You are telling everyone who you are!"

Two years later, I have to assume the owner of that truck still is.

unblock

(56,198 posts)
47. Gadsden flag has the don't tread on me snake
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:16 AM
Apr 2024

Bennington flag has 13 Stars and Stripes and a "76" in the blue field.

Generic Brad

(14,374 posts)
53. In TN we can get license plates with the Benington flag on them
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:24 AM
Apr 2024

That way it frees them up to wave an American flag and a MAGA flag on either side, sport a Confederate flag bumper sticker on their tailgate and display a NRA decal on their rear window. Why be forced to choose when you can have it all?

Omnipresent

(7,450 posts)
35. Yes, they make themselves immediately known to the "deep state FBI".
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 10:56 AM
Apr 2024

I’m glad that they do this, to help the government to track them.

Wednesdays

(22,602 posts)
95. "Two years later, I have to assume the owner of that truck still is."
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 02:43 PM
Apr 2024

...unless he croaked from COVID, due to being anti-vax and not taking precautions.

Aristus

(72,187 posts)
42. Not just a beard, but one of those ugly, tangled rat's-nest beards
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:10 AM
Apr 2024

that are so popular with the toxic tribe right now.

God, those things are disgusting.

SWBTATTReg

(26,257 posts)
74. Gross. A sign of lazy hygiene too. And they think that they are the cat's meow, eh? Again, gross. I keep expecting
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 12:08 PM
Apr 2024

bugs to fly out!

Kid Berwyn

(24,395 posts)
12. Call him, "General Patton!" when all the neighbors will hear.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 09:45 AM
Apr 2024

While I don’t know how the compliment would be taken, if expressed with a dash of contempt, “the General” won’t like it.

ProudMNDemocrat

(20,897 posts)
16. "OLD Blood and Guts"....
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 09:58 AM
Apr 2024

That is what soldiers of the 3rd Division called George Patton during WWII.

Kid Berwyn

(24,395 posts)
28. "Our blood. His guts."
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 10:45 AM
Apr 2024

The soldiers under his command were often ordered to do the impossible. They always rose to the occasion and accomplished the mission, even if it meant their lives.

Some who survived never forgave Patton for his strategy. From Patton’s perspective, he wanted to end the fighting ASAP.

Porter B. Williamson wrote an excellent memoire of service with the general, “Patton’s Principles.”

https://openlibrary.org/books/OL2068713M/General_Patton%27s_principles_for_life_and_leadership

I think it’s a history all Americans should know and appreciate.

Patton never asked his men to do something he wouldn’t do — or had done. And he was much more complicated than portrayed in popular books and movies. One for instance:

Gen. Patton was to assume command of II Corps. He arrived several hours early, as was his custom. Unaware of his arrival, the unit was not prepared and Patton found the men, officers and headquarters in disarray. He assembled the officers, told them what he expected of his staff, and asked them if they wanted to serve under his command?

Patton told the officers he planned to begin training his staff with a five-mile run, in uniform, carrying weapons, and with a full equipment pack. He also offered them all transfers to other units. At that, most officers got up and left. He then ordered the interested officers to prepare and to assemble in front of the Mess Hall in 10 minutes.

Dressed in full combat gear, Patton met the remaining officers for inspection. He thanked them for wanting to serve with him. He then said, “Drop your packs. We’ll run another day. Right now, let’s have some breakfast. We’ve got work to do.”

ProudMNDemocrat

(20,897 posts)
31. Back in 1987 when I toured the Military Academy at West Point....
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 10:51 AM
Apr 2024

It was said that it took George Patton 5 years to get through the Point because his excuse was..."I could could never find the Library."

When his statue at West Point was erected, it was put across the way of the Library. The guide said, "So General Patton would always know where the Library was located."

True story.

maptap22

(274 posts)
14. I am a vet and I don't fly one
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 09:53 AM
Apr 2024

I am very proud of my service and love my country but I don’t feel the need to worship a symbol. To me it is like religion. It should be a private matter.
If anyone doubts my patriotism I have a DD214 that I can display. ☺️

Ananda62

(316 posts)
30. Disabled female vet here
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 10:48 AM
Apr 2024

No flags on display, although my license plate has a veteran designation.

paleotn

(22,218 posts)
46. Same here.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:13 AM
Apr 2024

Did my 4 years in the Navy but have never felt the need for overt signs of patriotism. To me that's hollow fetishizing. They love the symbols supposedly but are quick to trample on the core ideas the Republic stands for.

Permanut

(8,391 posts)
64. Another vet here..
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:39 AM
Apr 2024

The cult has more or less hijacked the flag.

I have flown mine on my front porch 3 times in the last 20 years - November 2008, November 2012 and November 2020.

I hope to fly it again this November.

Wonder Why

(7,026 posts)
98. Disabled vet here. I fly it on appropriate holidays. I don't believe we should let it become the symbol of lunatics like
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 03:13 PM
Apr 2024

the Confederate battle flag did. Most Confederate soldiers were honorable men, even if they fought for the wrong side. It was their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and others that turned it into a sign of hate. Now that's all it's worth - hate and discrimination - so it needs to disappear.

hadEnuf

(3,616 posts)
68. These people are phony patriots. They use flags like they use 2 tennis balls in a nylon
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:50 AM
Apr 2024

strung over their trailer hitch on their Ford F-150.

Real patriots don't need to wear the over the top paraphernalia on their sleeves.

Ping Tung

(4,370 posts)
83. USMC 1961 - 1965
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 12:27 PM
Apr 2024

I don't fly or salute the flag and haven't since I walked out the gate for the last time.

AllaN01Bear

(29,493 posts)
18. in the develoment where i lived before i moved into an apartment. a fam put up 1 of those gigantic
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 09:59 AM
Apr 2024

dont tread on me flags . very anti social and so fourth.

magicarpet

(18,511 posts)
20. Much the same way as the Nazis,...
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 10:14 AM
Apr 2024

... an in your face hyper-nationalism. As the Fascists were eager to display their undying devotion to the motherland of Nazi Germany and the Third Reich via the swastika. Plastering it everywhere, parading up and down the streets, and using it as a backdrop at all public events. A nationalistic propaganda tool,.. worship the Third Reich, worship the motherland, worship Fascism, and with blind loyalty - worship Hitler.

Much the same is being done with the American flag lapel pin (made in China). And the American flag backdrop on the stage at trDUMP Nazi political rallies.

With all these American flags constantly around trDUMP the hidden propaganda message is - trDUMP is far more patriotic than anyone else. He craftly surrounds himself, it might be said drowns himself with the symbols of American patriotism.

The more stupid ones buy this propaganda hook, line, and sinker.
All symbolic of rabid patriotism but in reality devoid of one iota of substance.

Cyrano

(15,388 posts)
22. Good observation. I still remember
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 10:32 AM
Apr 2024

that video clip of Trump hugging a flag on a pole near the side of the stage. I guess he was trying to wrap himself in it. (Pig in a blanket?)

NewHendoLib

(61,857 posts)
21. I always think " wow, they don't even remember where they live"
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 10:17 AM
Apr 2024

So they have to remind themselves with the flags.

It is common here in western nc

Ping Tung

(4,370 posts)
25. "Flags are bits of colored cloth that governments use first to shrink-wrap people's
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 10:41 AM
Apr 2024

“Flags are bits of colored cloth that governments use first to shrink-wrap people’s minds & then as ceremonial shrouds to bury the dead.”

― Arundhati Roy

marybourg

(13,640 posts)
26. Whole rows of my neighbors fly flags,
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 10:41 AM
Apr 2024

but they don’t take them down at night, nor do they light them at night, the 2 ways we were taught in my childhood to respectfully handle flags at night. So I think they’re dumb clucks.

 

Sky Jewels

(9,148 posts)
59. I don't get displaying a U.S. flag when you are in the United States.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:33 AM
Apr 2024

USA! USA! Seems so silly and juvenile and jingoistic and cringey. The sentiment of: "We're better than those foreigners because we were smart enough to emerge from our mothers on U.S. soil!" is moronic to me. If I ever flew a flag it would be that photograph of the world as seen from space.

Cyrano

(15,388 posts)
88. I got annoyed when cops started wearing flag sleeve patches.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 01:13 PM
Apr 2024

Did they think people would mistake them for Bolivian or Turkish police?

 

Sky Jewels

(9,148 posts)
106. Not nearly to the extent that the U.S. does.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 05:06 PM
Apr 2024

Last edited Sat Apr 20, 2024, 05:39 PM - Edit history (1)

And here U.S. flags are also on shirts, mugs, bumper stickers, you name it. People from other countries always remark on it. It’s embarrassing.

LauraInLA

(2,248 posts)
103. We fly a California flag -- started during the Trump years, but we've kept it up since.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 03:50 PM
Apr 2024

LeftInTX

(34,294 posts)
32. Prone to road rage, speeding and aggressive driving.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 10:51 AM
Apr 2024

I always keep my distance when I see these on the road.

DBoon

(24,983 posts)
102. may have modified their diesel truck to "roll coal" on demand
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 03:45 PM
Apr 2024

do not get behind them if you drive a Prius

 

jimfields33

(19,382 posts)
92. Absolutely true.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 02:19 PM
Apr 2024

I am a let people do what they want. I actually don’t think it’s a great idea to put the window flags on as I think it weakens the seal. Big to each their own. And an American flag? Why not. That definitely shouldn’t be looked at negatively. We should be proud of where we live.

 

oldsoftie

(13,538 posts)
105. Its sad that seeing a US flag makes someone think its a BAD person at the wheel
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 04:35 PM
Apr 2024

Sure, SOME may be, but why wouldnt I fly one if I wanted to?

ancianita

(43,307 posts)
37. Being a patriot is like being a gentleman. If you have to publicly proclaim either, you're not.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 10:57 AM
Apr 2024

Borrowed from John Henry Newman, who wrote The Idea of a University (1854) where, as almost an aside, he describes attributes we might all strive for to be considered decent members of society:

"Hence it is that it is almost a definition of a gentleman to say that he is one who never inflicts pain...

The true gentleman in like manner carefully avoids whatever may cause a jar or a jolt in the minds of those with whom he is cast — all clashing of opinion, or collision of feeling, all restraint, or suspicion, or gloom, or resentment; his great concern being to make every one at his ease and at home.

He has his eyes on all his company; he is tender towards the bashful, gentle towards the distant, and merciful towards the absurd; he can recollect to whom he is speaking; he guards against unseasonable allusions, or topics which may irritate; he is seldom prominent in conversation, and never wearisome. He makes light of favors while he does them, and seems to be receiving when he is conferring.

He never speaks of himself except when compelled, never defends himself by a mere retort; he has no ears for slander or gossip, is scrupulous in imputing motives to those who interfere with him, and interprets everything for the best.

He is never mean or little in his disputes, never takes unfair advantage, never mistakes personalities or sharp saying for arguments, or insinuates evil which he dare not say out.

From a long-sighted prudence, he observes the maxim of the ancient sage, that we should ever conduct ourselves towards our enemy as if he were one day to be our friend.

He has too much good sense to be affronted at insults, he is too well employed to remember injuries, and too indolent to bear malice. He is patient, forbearing, and resigned, on philosophical principles; he submits to pain, because it is inevitable, to bereavement, because it is irreparable, and to death, because it is his destiny.

If he engages in controversy of any kind, his disciplined intellect preserves him from the blundering discourtesy of better, perhaps, but less educated minds; who, like blunt weapons, tear and hack instead of cutting clean, who mistake the point in argument, waste their strength on trifles, misconceive their adversary, and leave the question more involved than they find it.

He may be right or wrong in his opinion, but he is too clear-headed to be unjust; he is as simple as he is forcible, and as brief as he is decisive. Nowhere shall we find greater candor, consideration, indulgence: he throws himself into the minds of his opponents, he accounts for their mistakes. He knows the weakness of human reason as well as its strength, its province and its limits…

He is a friend of religious toleration, and that, not only because his philosophy has taught him to look on all forms of faith with an impartial eye, but also from the gentleness and effeminacy of feeling, which is the attendant on civilization… Such are some of the lineaments of the ethical character, which the cultivated intellect will form, apart from religious principle."


Thanks, Cyrano, for your springboard for further thought that reminded me to look up more about a saying I learned from the days when men reasoned about their civilized selves.

https://classyaf.substack.com/p/the-definition-of-a-gentleman

Ocelot II

(130,533 posts)
39. I once a pickup truck flying a US flag from one side and a Confederate flag from the other.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:00 AM
Apr 2024

I was behind it so I couldn't see the driver, but I can pretty much guarantee the truck was driven by an especially stupid white male Trumper.

twodogsbarking

(18,785 posts)
43. There are exceptions. I saw a huge truck with two flags that said Trump Never.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:12 AM
Apr 2024

This is a big time exception.

sop

(18,621 posts)
44. The people on my block who fly American flags see themselves as more patriotic than the ones who don't.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:12 AM
Apr 2024

I know this because they've made a point of telling me so.

mymomwasright

(444 posts)
48. I have the national ensign and Marine Corps colors mounted at the steps of my house
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:16 AM
Apr 2024

I have no doubt some folks mistake me as some MAGAT asshole. I don't fly them on my truck, I think that's a little overboard. My neighbors fly the Fuck Your Feelings and Fuck Biden flags, it's their right to show ignorance. Please keep in mind that not all are who they seem sometimes.

AverageOldGuy

(3,835 posts)
49. Flags on/around my home
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:21 AM
Apr 2024

I live in a very red rural VA county where the Potomac joins the Chesapeake Bay; retired here 17 years ago.

Built a nice house, nothing McMansion, just good solid house with all we need. BIG front and back porches because we are both from the deep South where everyone sat on the porch and rocked or swung (swing, swung, swung) in the porch swing. My porches measure 48 ft wide X 16 ft deep . . . lots of room.

I mount flags on two of the front porch columns -- 3X5 American flag and Ukrainian flag. I fly the American flag because I served 28 years in the Army, 1967-1995, including tour in Vietnam. I fly the Ukrainian flag to show my support for people fighting for their freedom (and to piss off my two MAGAt neighbors).

My best flags, though, are the small "garden flags" out front along the road, 12inch X 18inch. I have two MAGAt neighbors -- these flags drive them crazy(ier).




 

Silent Type

(12,412 posts)
52. I'm OK with the American flag(s). But trump, confederate and Gadsden flags get me quite agitated.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:24 AM
Apr 2024
 

Sky Jewels

(9,148 posts)
57. That it's a controlling male who is desperately trying to compensate for insecurities.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:29 AM
Apr 2024

Penis size may or may not be a factor. But it's someone who wants everyone to think he's important and powerful. He's not very bright. Toxic masculinity seeping out of his pores. Probably a gun humper. He's also likely a misogynist who hates cats. (Insecure males can't stand that kitties don't play their "obey me" game. Misogyny and cat hatred are closely linked. I told my daughter to RUN if she ever started to date someone and found out he despises cats.)

gulliver

(13,985 posts)
58. Too much of a good thing.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:31 AM
Apr 2024

In general, the American flag and the state flag are the good flags. They're best when displayed according to protocols and in ceremonies. That's where they most clearly mean what they actually mean.

Doodley

(11,913 posts)
61. They are screaming out for attention and their message is: "I really do have a big dick."
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:34 AM
Apr 2024

flashman13

(2,403 posts)
62. Others may not agree, but I have always said, one flag is patriotic. Two or more are propaganda.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:35 AM
Apr 2024

Demsrule86

(71,542 posts)
65. My brother in law and sister are Marines...not serving now. My sister won the highest
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:40 AM
Apr 2024

medal awarded in peacetime for keeping the latest plane being constructed (F15 I think) when her commander died and a replacement wasn't sent for two years. She was one of the first women Marines in the 80's. Both have two flags on their cars...and Marine license plates too. Both are Democratic to the bone.

Rebl2

(17,740 posts)
67. Around my
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 11:46 AM
Apr 2024

town I usually see a Royals window flag on one side and a Chiefs window flag on opposite side. Used to see, several years ago, a pickup go by my house (I am on a busy street) with a regular size US flag flying from the back of his truck.

lonely bird

(2,941 posts)
69. Hmmm...
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 12:00 PM
Apr 2024

In some ways it tells us nothing.

In other ways it does. Flag waving is meaningless. It does not imply patriotism. It does not imply MAGA although it may be likely that MAGA waves the flag as some sort of symbolism which confers on the waver membership in the tribe.

It does not imply racism, in and of itself. That the country was founded upon racism due to the failure of the founders to address slavery is obvious.

We have other concerns which are more pressing.

Sympthsical

(10,969 posts)
71. It says we're about to hear a lot of stereotypes and confirmation bias
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 12:06 PM
Apr 2024

So, a useful exercise.

I have a former Marine as a neighbor. He's a bit flaggish with his house and truck. It's fine. Nice guy, talk to him and his son now and then. I have no idea precisely why he's a flag person. Not particularly relevant to our idle relationship.

I grew up in a Democratic area where people flew flags to varying degrees. Had one old WW II vet who had a full-on twenty foot pole with a spotlight and everything. He was chill. Gave out full boxes of popcorn for Halloween.

My dad used to have a small flag on his car antenna. Don't recall why or why he stopped. Never asked. Vietnam vet and union Democrat.

But sharing this feels like crashing a party, so.

sarisataka

(22,695 posts)
85. Yes, after reading all the replies
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 12:37 PM
Apr 2024

I will have to tell my 80 year old aunt, a life long Democratic voters, all the things I have learned about her.

Martin Eden

(15,628 posts)
72. It's a vehicle from the US Consulate. Either that, or
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 12:06 PM
Apr 2024

Your suspicions are most likely correct.

The self-professed "patriots" who vote for a fascist would-be dictator desecrate the flag they so ostentatiously display, and spit on the graves of every true patriot who gave his or her life to protect our Constitutional democracy.

Those who used flags on poles as weapons against police officers as they violently tried to overturn our democracy are at best useful idiots doing the bidding of treasonous criminals.

Like so many good citizens appalled at what's happening, I want my flag back!!!. It is so disheartening to experience disgust and dread when I see a pickup truck flying the Stars & Stripes. The driver is almost certainly a MAGAt intent on destroying the highest ideals that flag is supposed to represent.

LauraInLA

(2,248 posts)
73. Here in Los Angeles, we see a lot of cars with two flags:
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 12:08 PM
Apr 2024

sometimes Mexican flags, sometimes Armenian flags. I’ve seen South Korean, too. Trying to remember any others. People also put up their college sports teams or the Dodgers or Angels.

 

oldsoftie

(13,538 posts)
81. Exactly. People are making a big deal out of nothing.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 12:23 PM
Apr 2024

Unless you're flying trump flags or "FJB" flags or the like, it really doesnt mean anything bad. Thinking that flying a US flag on your car says something BAD about you is sad.

ecstatic

(35,075 posts)
78. I think you've covered just about everything. Lol
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 12:20 PM
Apr 2024

I saw someone had mentioned that it's likely a white male, which I agree with, but I can't rule out the possibility of a non-white male who is trying really hard to be maga / rightwing.

phylny

(8,818 posts)
82. We were in Canada a few days ago and saw
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 12:27 PM
Apr 2024

an SUV with two Canadian flags. Maybe it’s not a uniquely USA thing.

grumpyduck

(6,672 posts)
84. I had a small American flag over
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 12:37 PM
Apr 2024

the bench in my garage workshop until we sold the house. It reminded me of why I live here.

 

northern light

(29 posts)
87. There is a US flag code.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 12:46 PM
Apr 2024

I entered basic training on 4July 1965 and retired 31 December 1994. I see these uber patriots, and occasionally get a chance to ask them where they served. I also see people that are serving the country in many other ways. The last couple of years I have been volunteering in election precincts. There are people doing a myriad of small tasks the keep our way of life going. I think volunteering at a food bank is a sort of nation service. When I saw Trump wrapping himself in a US flag it made me sick, after I got done laughing. I served under 7 presidents, from LBJ to Clinton. I am only ashamed of Trump squatting in the oval office.

 

TexasDem69

(2,317 posts)
91. I'd assume he is an American
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 02:15 PM
Apr 2024

Everything else is utter (and childish based on some posts here) speculation. Maybe the individual is a veteran, maybe they have children serving. But that’s no less bullshit speculation than anything else in this thread. But as others mentioned, the fact that anyone thinks poorly of someone just because they fly the American flag reflects poorly on those individuals. No flags on our cars, but several around our house. I served in the military, my father and several uncles fought in Vietnam and I fully support veterans and the American flag.

rsdsharp

(12,002 posts)
93. It says to me, they have never read The Flag Code 4 USC §1 et. seq., and are displaying it incorrectly.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 02:31 PM
Apr 2024

b) The flag should not be draped over the hood, top, sides, or back of a vehicle or of a railroad train or a boat. When the flag is displayed on a motorcar, the staff shall be fixed firmly to the chassis or clamped to the right fender.

4 USC §7(b)

a) It is the universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on stationary flagstaffs in the open. However, when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.

(c) The flag should not be displayed on days when the weather is inclement, except when an all weather flag is displayed.

4 USC §6(a),(c)

Attilatheblond

(8,877 posts)
97. All that, and the driver doesn't care about traffic safety/other people's lives
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 02:52 PM
Apr 2024

Those flags can come loose, get airborne, land across someone's windshield, blinding them in traffic and putting a lot of others at risk of injury/death in a car accident.

Really think those flags on moving vehicles should be illegal. The way to get legislation thru would be to have the Automobile Insurance Lobbyists push for it.

Thunderbeast

(3,819 posts)
99. We can not concede the idea of patriotism or the flag to the wingnuts!
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 03:24 PM
Apr 2024

I am a life long liberal.

The American flag and the Oregon State flag fly on:

National holidays.

When the nation mourns a true leader.

Any time Donald Trump is indicted (and hopefully will when convicted and jailed).

maxrandb

(17,428 posts)
101. He'll defend 'Murika with his life
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 03:34 PM
Apr 2024

but he's been unable to find the local recruiting station.

 

Chainfire

(17,757 posts)
104. The right has co-opted the flag.
Sat Apr 20, 2024, 03:50 PM
Apr 2024

You can just about be sure he is MAGA. Where I live it is popular to fly Old Glory with Old Shitty.

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