Many soldiers suffered through wars to protect the rights of citizens, but these soldiers who “died fighting tyranny” are being “dishonor[ed]” by the same citizens they fought for (Source A). By burning, ripping, and tramping upon the American flag, U.S. citizens mutilate the symbolism the flag represents. The symbol of freedom veterans fought unyieldingly to achieve is now unappreciated and disrespected. Hundreds of thousands of soldiers “die[d] defending the flag” in hopes of protecting the values of the nation (Source C). They valued freedom, independence, equality, and justice which have all been represented through the American flag since the U.S. gained independence from Great Britain during the Revolutionary War. By desecrating the flag, citizens depreciate the values these soldiers yearned for the nation to have. Although these U.S. citizens attempt to justify the desecration of the flag by claiming it is considered freedom of speech, these people are disrespecting the soldiers that fought for that freedom of speech they use to justify their