[Excaliber]

We can take separation to far, I do believe. Like "One Nation Under God" or the pledge of allegiance. Prayer in schools is tricky, enforced with to heavy a hand at times, justifiable in others.

In regards to THIS rally I think the Pentagon made the right call. They sound like a great bunch of patriotic folks and I support their christian outlook on life. The Pentagon concluded, in this instance, that it was primarily a religious gathering first, a call to honor Vets second. Both worthy efforts. I would have to agree with the Pentagon's conclusion on this particular rally.

On another issue. It really bother's me when private religious schools accept money the Federal governement supplies for whatever program's they may have. School lunches for instance, or whatever. There should be a strict separation there as well. Primarily because the religious school may be tempted or pressured to change their religious convictions due to the Fed influence. Indeed, they may be COMPELLED to change their standards because they have accepted money.

The rally in question here may have been authorized for a fly over by one simple change. Remove the religious statements, bible verse quotes and clear references to a "Godly lifestyle" from their brochures. Put the emphasis back on a celebration for Vets, country, etc. Let them have their christian music and/or prayer time, just be a little more "low key" with it, IF they expect to have Federal support.

NASCAR seems to strike a nice balance in that regard.