A Washington state mayor delivered a fiery response during a city council meeting after an LGBTQ activist raised objections to the POW/MIA flag being flown at city hall.
The activist argued that the flag, honoring prisoners of war and those missing in action, did not represent all members of the community and suggested it be removed. The request immediately drew a strong reaction from the mayor, who rejected the demand outright.
With emotion evident in his voice, the mayor declared the flag a solemn tribute to the sacrifices made by American service members. He stressed that the symbol was not political but a reminder of the soldiers who never returned home and their families still waiting for answers.
“How dare you,” the mayor fired back, questioning the activist’s understanding of the flag’s meaning. He added that the city has a duty to honor the nation’s heroes, emphasizing that the POW/MIA flag would remain proudly displayed at city hall.
The mayor’s stance received applause from attendees, many of whom were veterans and local residents. No further action was taken on the activist’s request, and the flag continues to fly over city hall.