The Gadsden Flag in Combat Abroad
Clip: Episode 3 | 33sVideo has Closed Captions
Armed forces vets discuss embracing the Gadsden flag during combat in the Middle East.
"For us it was this symbol, moving out into enemy territory: 'Don't tread on me.' But during that tour, it really took on a different meaning." - Sergeant First Class Joe Morrisey served in Afghanistan as a member of the First Platoon.
Iconic America: Our Symbols and Stories with David Rubenstein is a production of Show of Force, DMR Productions, and WETA Washington, D.C. David M. Rubenstein is the host and executive...
The Gadsden Flag in Combat Abroad
Clip: Episode 3 | 33sVideo has Closed Captions
"For us it was this symbol, moving out into enemy territory: 'Don't tread on me.' But during that tour, it really took on a different meaning." - Sergeant First Class Joe Morrisey served in Afghanistan as a member of the First Platoon.
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Our Symbols and Stories
David Rubenstein examines the history of America through some of its most iconic symbols, objects and places, in conversation with historical thinkers, community members and other experts. Together, they dive deep into each symbol’s history, using them as a gateway to understanding America’s past and present.Providing Support for PBS.org
Learn Moreabout PBS online sponsorship- The Gadsden flag, for us, it was this symbol moving out into enemy occupied territory.
Don't tread on me.
But during that tour, you know, it really took on a different meeting.
- Take the fight to the enemy.
They're really good at, you know saying patriotic stuff like that.
Yeah, go bring the fight to the enemy.
But it didn't really, didn't feel as heroic as you know, the stories would be told.
Video has Closed Captions
The Continental Congress chose the Gadsden flag as the first symbol of its naval ships. (2m 57s)
Video has Closed Captions
Flags are clearly an important part of what it means to be an American, but why is that? (4m 7s)
Video has Closed Captions
The “Don’t Tread on Me” flag has been co-opted by a range of Americans throughout history. (32s)
Video has Closed Captions
Former U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger tells David Rubenstein how he defines true patriotism. (1m 27s)
Providing Support for PBS.org
Learn Moreabout PBS online sponsorship
Iconic America: Our Symbols and Stories with David Rubenstein is a production of Show of Force, DMR Productions, and WETA Washington, D.C. David M. Rubenstein is the host and executive...