Quote:You are very much wrong, though I do agree with you that it is a free speech issue.

 

Regarding your first point in bold, a retiring member has the privilage to invite guests to participate in every part of the ceremony whether it's giving a speech, being a member of the Color Guard to even giving an invocation.

 

Regarding the second part in bold, there is no "standard" text regarding the folding of the flag in the Air Force or any branch of service.  There are traditional speeches and texts that are usually read or spoken, but there is no requirement for any of them.

 

Regarding the final part in bold, it wasn't the base commander that attempted to bar the retired Senior Master Sergeant, it was his unit commander.  There is a difference.

 

Fair enough, and I appreciate your clarification of certain military protocols and structure about which I am admittedly unaware. Having said that, I can imagine a few things that would not be allowed, starting with strippers. 

 

There is clearly a history between these two men (Rodriguez and the unit commander). If it was all about religious content in the ceremony, I agree with the Air Force spokesperson, the ceremony should acknowledge the retiree's wishes, within reason (again, strippers, etc.).

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