There is that old saw about those who forget one's history are doomed to repeat it – and we insist on sweeping a whole chunk of history under the rug and into the memory hole? Yes, with some it has come to be a symbol of hate, but most who fought under that flag fought for their homes and families. They fought and died honorably, and bravely.

Why is it that despite the constant liberal refrain of the gung-ho knee-jerk military guy, those with military backgrounds can at least respect an enemy for his virtues, while said leftists and progressives can only display contempt?

Know thy enemy – even assuming that southerners who admire the flag and what THEY see it standing for ar the enemy, you cannot do that if you are not willing to understand them, and have so little respect for them that you cannot appreciate their virtues.