As a veteran have you considered that you have a mental blindspot caused by your military training?

As a flag burner have you considered you've fallen for propaganda that seeks to divide the nation rather than fix it's problems?

There's literally nothing wrong with being happy to be an American despite it's flaws

Rather be a happy human than a happy <insert warring tribe here>.

This is supposed to get everyone's attention. Symbilolicly it represents the betrayal the protester feels from the government. Sadly, too many people are desensitized to this. I guess if the only thing that will get real attention is burning yourself in protest, then there will be fewer protesters and the government and corporations can continue doing whatever they want.