Frederick Peterson did not stand idly by when anti-war demonstrators attempted to burn an American flag in downtown Washington, D.C. on Sept. 29. Acting on his own, and with no backup, he put a stop to the action.

Mr. Peterson writes occasionally for WorldTribune.com [September 25, 2001 - Recognizing evil and calling it by its name]. He is a retired Marine lieutenant colonel and a veteran of several conflicts including the Vietnam War.

According to one news account, "Frederick Peterson of Centreville, Va, was pulled aside for questioning by the police after he got into a fight with some demonstrators over the burning of the flag. Wearing a T-shirt with a picture of the American flag, alongside the words 'These colors don't run,' Mr. Peterson, who fought in the Vietnam War, later said it pained him to see the American flag treated in such a way."

The real story, Mr. Peterson told WorldTribune.com, was somewhat different. "The police came to my assistance when it became clear that I was outnumbered and in a potentially violent confrontation," he said.

Witnesses said the police and Mr. Peterson emerged from the mob to enthusiastic applause from counter-demonstrators and other observers.

A former Special Forces veteran Mike Gormally shouted encouragement to Peterson, "Had your back, bro!"

"One man against thousands of punks," said an admiring onlooker. "That's the spirit that will carry the day for our special forces inside Afghanistan."

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