The Observer Newspapers |Reece to Cover Marine Corps Emblem on Campaign Signs

April 17, 2008

Reece to Cover Marine Corps Emblem on Campaign Signs

To the editor:

Some people may have noticed a small Marine Corps emblem in the lower right hand corner of my campaign sign. My intent in using the emblem was not to imply that the Marine Corps had endorsed my campaign. I was merely expressing my pride in having had the privilege of serving my country and in having earned the title of Marine. The owner of the company that produced my signs-a former Marine himself-assured me that my use of the emblem was permissible since I am a retired Marine.

On Monday, I received a telephone call from an officer in the Judge Advocate Division of Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps, informing me that a complaint had been filed concerning my use of the emblem on my sign. I was told that this is a common error and that their office acts to correct it only if a formal complaint is received.

I now know that the Marine Corps emblem is protected by statute and cannot be used without permission. I should have checked further and I take full responsibility for not having done so. Before the end of the day on Monday, I purchased vinyl decals to cover the emblem on my campaign signs.

If anyone sees one of my campaign signs that still has the Marine Corps emblem visible, please contact me at 703-435-3969 or by e-mail at harlon.reece@verizon.net and I will take immediate corrective action.

To the individual who filed the complaint: If your motivation was to correct the improper use of the Marine Corps emblem, it was not necessary to file a formal complaint. You could have contacted me and I would gladly have taken corrective action.

Harlon Reece

Herndon

Editor's note: Mr. Reece is a current member of the Herndon Town Council and is running for mayor.