Observing the Fallen can Include Those Who Fall in Police Shootings

  Perhaps, in places throughout the nation, before the daily flag salute, this past day was marked with a moment of silence for those who died in 9-11.
  I wonder at this, at how pausing to honor the fallen is always considered appropriate at flag ceremonies.
  On this day, it might be worthy to note there runs an unseen similarity to what the NFL flag-kneelers are doing. In protesting the police killings, are they not, to some extent, observing the deaths of those who have been killed? Is this not, to some extent, a form of pausing in observance of people who have lost their lives? If the timing is appropriate when we observe the deaths of veterans, and police officers and thousands of others, why then is it not appropriate when it comes to those who have fallen at the hands of police?
   Or, would we even be offended that they should be classed as being among our fallen? Would we suggest, they should have listened to the police, and should not have provoked the police? Would we say that to class them with those who have died at the hands of foreign terrorism is wrong?
   I am not of such an opinion. I think it not wrong to protest their deaths when the American flag is presented and the Anthem is played. I think it not wrong for someone to drop to a knee at such a moment.
   Bless America, and bless those who observe those who have fallen -- all those who have fallen.

(Note: A few small changes were made to this blog 9/12/18.)