The Gadsden
Flag is a historical American flag dating back to 1775
during our war for independence from Britain.
Since its conception, the flag has stood for the ideals of
patriotism and self reliance. A snake in the grass simply wants
to be left alone, to go about its affairs in peace. But, if
attacked, it carries concealed fangs and poison with which to
defend itself. The snake is analogous to today's modern
concealed handgun carrier. The citizen desires to conduct his or
her daily affairs and be left alone. The citizen does not look
for a fight and will retreat from one if possible. But, if
cornered, the peaceably armed citizen has the means and mental
fortitude to defend themselves and their family should it be
necessary.
The Gadsden has received a
"bad rap" as of lately. The 1990's militia movement used its
image in their literature and propaganda. Some have claimed that
Timothy McVeigh was wearing a Gadsden flag t-shirt when he was
arrested after the OKC bombing, which is false. The flag has
been historically associated with the Right of Revolution and
most recently the 2009 "TEA parties". Our government currently
views the flag dimly, feeling it is associated with the
"Extremist" movement.
I do not share the
governments view. I feel the Gadsden is a significant historical
flag, a symbol of the
Culpeper Minutemen, American pride, and the "Don't mess with
us" attitude found after the 9/11 attacks. In fact, the US Navy
(of which I am a proud veteran) has been flying the original
First
Navy Jack featuring a snake and the words "DONT TREAD ON ME"
on all ships since the first anniversary of 9/11.
I am proud to be a citizen of
The United States, I am proud to be a citizen of Virginia. I am
proud to have served my country under the Stars and Stripes and
the
Navy Flag. And I am also proud to display the Gadsden Flag
on my website, literature, and videos.
