Joe Baca: “I stand in support of H.R. 36, to give Congress the power to outlaw flag burning. As a veteran, this issue is very…”

“I stand in support of H.R. 36, to give Congress the power to outlaw flag burning. As a veteran, this issue is very important and close to my heart. As we look at it not only as a veteran but as we look at what has been said right now, people have talked about the constitutional amendment dealing with expression, freedom of expression, the right to liberty. We also have the right to interpret, when we look at the Constitution, to examine what our forefathers, who wrote the legislation sometime ago, actually meant. And sometimes there is time for a change, and this is a time for a change that we have to realize. As a symbol, many of our veterans have fought for our country. Because of the sacrifices they have made, we enjoy peace and freedom today. Because of that symbol many individuals have died. When we look at someone who has been buried and the flag is turned over to the family, it is that symbol that is turned over. When I turn around and look at the flag behind me, it is that symbol I salute. When I attend a service, it is that symbol I salute. When I see the changing of the colors, it is that symbol, it is what America is. It is what this country was founded on. To everyone who has fought for us, from the beginning to now, in each and every one of our wars, it is a form of expression. It is one we should have. We should never ever desecrate the flag.”