Teen Told to Remove U.S. Flags from Truck, Opts for Homeschooling.
A Virginia Teenager Stands Up for His First Amendment Rights
In a bold act of defiance, a Virginia teenager took a stand for his beliefs and left his high school to be homeschooled. Christopher Hartless, a student at Staunton River High School in Bedford County, Virginia, was told to remove two large American flags from his truck if he wanted to park in the school lot. Refusing to back down, Hartless chose homeschooling over giving up his right to fly the flags.
High school student Christopher Hartless said “he is just exercising his First Amendment rights by flying the flags.” https://t.co/bwhD4v44cP
— WALB News 10 (@WALBNews10) August 23, 2023
Standing Up for Family and Country
Hartless, whose family has a history of serving in the military, felt a deep connection to the American flag. He believed that he should be able to proudly display the flag that his family fought for. When asked about the school’s claim that the flags were a “distraction,” Hartless pointed out that the school itself had an American flag on a flagpole that every student could see.
His stepmother, Christina Kingery, fully supported Hartless’ decision. She emphasized that as long as a flag is not harmful or disrespectful, every student should have the right to fly it. Kingery vowed to stand behind her son and continue to support his desire to display the American flags.
A School’s Explanation
The school defended its actions by stating that their parking contract prohibits the display of large flags or banners on vehicles due to their “distractive nature.” However, they assured parents that the American flag is proudly flown throughout the school, and the Pledge of Allegiance is recited every morning.
A Symbol of Sacrifice
Bedford County, Virginia, is home to the National D-Day Memorial, a tribute to the American soldiers who bravely fought in World War II. The memorial, dedicated by President George W. Bush in 2001, stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served their country. Bedford, in particular, suffered a significant loss on D-Day, with nineteen of its men from Company A, 29th Infantry Division, losing their lives.
Sources:
- WSET News
- d-day-memorial/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Encyclopedia Virginia
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