Across America, a new symbol of patriotism is rising high above the roads and highways: the Stars and Stripes, hoisted proudly by Steak ‘n Shake at restaurants from coast to coast. The burger chain, founded in Indiana and known for its classic American meals, is now making headlines for something even bigger—installing the tallest and biggest American flags allowed by local governments at each of its locations. It’s a bold statement, and one that couldn’t come at a more important time.
Steak ‘n Shake’s move isn’t just about flags. It’s about values. In a time when some Americans burn or disrespect the flag, this company is doing the opposite. They are standing up for what the flag truly means—freedom, unity, and sacrifice. Their announcement on October 5 quickly went viral, with millions of Americans cheering them on. Even Elon Musk, one of the most influential business leaders in the world, chimed in to say he’d be ordering from the burger chain.
This patriotic gesture comes just weeks after President Donald Trump signed an executive order cracking down on flag desecration. Under the new order, anyone caught burning or destroying the American flag will face arrest and up to one year in prison. This is a strong step toward defending one of the most sacred symbols of our Republic.
President Trump’s order reminds us that the American flag is more than cloth and thread. It is a symbol of the blood and bravery of those who fought for our freedoms. For nearly 250 years, men and women have risked everything to keep the flag waving. To burn it in protest is not just rude—it’s an act of contempt against the nation itself.
Now, some groups, like the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), argue that flag burning is a form of free speech protected under the First Amendment. That idea comes from a 1989 Supreme Court decision which struck down the Flag Protection Act of 1968. But just because the Court made that ruling doesn’t mean it was right. The First Amendment protects speech, but not every action that claims to be speech is protected. There’s a difference between speaking your mind and setting a national symbol on fire in public.
President Trump understands that difference. That’s why he is also urging law enforcement, ICE, Border Patrol, and the military to enforce his executive order. If someone burns the flag, they will be arrested—plain and simple.
This renewed focus on the flag isn’t just about punishment. It’s also about pride. In March of this year, Senator Ted Cruz introduced the Make American Flags in America Act. This bill would make sure all American flags bought by the government are made right here in the United States, using American-grown materials. It’s a smart move. Too many so-called “American” flags are actually made overseas, sometimes even in countries like China. That’s not just misleading—it’s a disgrace.
Last year, Congress passed the All-American Flag Act, but loopholes have let foreign-made flags slip through. Senator Cruz’s bill would fix that and help protect our jobs and our honor.
When a private company like Steak ‘n Shake raises Old Glory high above its buildings, it’s not just about business—it’s about belief. Belief in this country. Belief in our Constitution. Belief in American greatness. This is what the flag stands for.
We should applaud Steak ‘n Shake and other Americans who are bringing patriotism back into public life. In a world where too many people are quick to criticize our history and traditions, it’s refreshing to see a company stand tall—literally and figuratively—for the land of the free and the home of the brave.
Let the flag fly high. Let it remind us of who we are. And let us never forget the cost of the freedom it represents.
