[joshua c]

It started out that way and was so popular that it was played before every game.

Hint, hint, Jeffy.

[Rapscallion]

You are much too rational.

[rlmorel]

This is a completely unsurprising take by any given Leftist.

It is what they all want anyway, the eradication of any display of gratitude or pride in what our nation is or does.

That must all be reserved for the personalities of The State.

[chris37]

No.

We aren’t ashamed of our country or its anthem.

I am ashamed of and disgusted by many of its athletes.

[Pollster1]

America stopped the national socialists. It took longer, but America stopped the Soviet socialists. Recently, America stopped Bernie’s socialists. The political Left hates America because we keep stopping them. They are searching for any excuse to oppose our National Anthem.

[Caipirabob]

It’s not only tied to our traditions, it should be a litmus test to sort idiots from patriots. Like in the NFL. They don’t want our money. It is an act of patriotism to deprive them of it.

[Kartographer]

I pray that it continues!

I remember starting my public school day with the Pledge of Allegiance and the Lords Prayer, it didn’t hurt me, didn’t brain wash me or make me a minion to something or someone.

It did I think make me a better citizen.

This daily routine taught me that a civilized society only functions well if it has a shared basic morality and a healthy respect for the work and sacrifices of those who have passed before, efforts that made possible the freedoms we share and enjoy to this day. It instilled a sense of duty that I upon maturity would become responsible to defend and protect that which was given to me for those that followed.

The Bible puts it well: “Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.” Romans 13:7

So to show a little honor and respect to those that made and make it possible to gather together in peace and safety to share a fine spring, summer or fall day sporting event seems fitting and right and to begrudge it very small and petty.

Sadly I will add that small and petty seems to be the order of the day.

[Ace's Dad]

Let me jump in. I'm a retired veteran, no combat experience, but count myself as a patriot. I think respect for the flag and anthem isn't an important part of sports competition. It should be a community decision, not a league or union call.

Many sports teams are filled with non-citizens. That's one of the things that make this country unique.

Patriotism doesn't need advertising!

Having said that, keeping the flag and anthem in international competition is OK.

Please don't try to flame; it's a waste of bandwidth with me, and I won't respond. Just an observation.

[Frangibled]

Here’s the deal: Kneel, raise fist, lock arms, protest.

I have yet to see any of these people articulate what the protest is really all about. What is it that they want?

Then expect the audience to clap and cheer for you? I think not.

[luvbach1]

Would it be terribly un-American if "The Star Spangled Banner" was saved for opening baseball games played on Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labour Day, to name the three major such holidays occurring during baseball season?

Yes, it would be if the reason is to avoid opportunities for individuals to show their disrespect to the flag and anthem. The flag and anthem should not have to be hidden away.

[Mollypitcher1]

We need MORE patriotic demonstrations as an example for the young. We most certainly do not need LESS, simply to aid and abet the idiots trying to destroy our country. CONFRONTATION is needed to show them this country loves and respects our symbols of sacrifice—our flag, our military, and our national anthem. Sacrifice made by hundreds of thousands so that millions may live free.

[Mark]

Eliminate it every day,....except Joseph Stalin’s birthday.(/S)

[Redwood71]

U.S. Code › Title 36 › Subtitle I › Part A › Chapter 3 › § 301

National anthem (a) DESIGNATION.—The composition consisting of the words and music known as the Star-Spangled Banner is the national anthem. (b) CONDUCT DURING PLAYING.—During a rendition of the national anthem— (1) when the flag is displayed— (A) individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note; (B) members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute in the manner provided for individuals in uniform; and (C) all other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, and men not in uniform, if applicable, should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart; and (2) when the flag is not displayed, all present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed.

This law does exist, obviously, and it only defines how to react to the anthem. But there is no defined penalty for violating it, so nothing can happen. It is just a way to make trouble and step on the people that got the athletes and their highly overpaid contracts for them. Just trash cutting their own throats.

rwood

[Harmless Teddy Bear]

Would it be terribly un-American if "The Star Spangled Banner" was saved for opening baseball games played on Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labour Day, to name the three major such holidays occurring during baseball season?

Yes.

You might ask the people in Fresno, California. When informed that the National Anthem would not be sung before the high school softball game they stood up and sang it themselves.

Quit trying to pander to the democrats you Quisling.

[trebb]

Would it be terribly un-American if "The Star Spangled Banner" was saved for opening baseball games played on Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labour Day, to name the three major such holidays occurring during baseball season?

Would it be terrible if we only took away AK-47's for now???????