Several aspects of this story are very troubling. First is that the individual who thought of the design failed to understand the importance and sanctity of any design emulating the rising of the flag on Iwo Jima by Marines during World War II. (Perhaps we can lay blame on public schooling for this abject ignorance.) Second is that the "artist's" supervisor failed to halt the process, displaying ignorance of the military honor, service, and sacrifice conveyed by the iconic photo, and also ascribed to any representation of it. grasp the similar significance. Third is that production managers failed to grasp the significance. Finally is that we can conclude the company does not hire veterans, because an average veteran would have spoken up about the inappropriateness of the design. Alternatively, perhaps the company does hire veterans and did not listen when concerns were voiced.
In this instance the disconnect was apparent in the actions of Under Armour who, by the way, goes out of its way to sell military logo merchandise at military bases. If a major company with military business dealings makes such a drastic mistake, it communicates that society at large is woefully disconnected from its military, from the men and women who volunteer to serve and go in harm's way.
Since only one-half of one percent of our nation serves in uniform, it is distressing that incidents such as this happen all too frequently.
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