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BRANCH MANAGER REPORTEDLY ORDERS REMOVAL OF FLAGS PLACED TO HONOR FALLEN MARINE
A South Carolina Bank of America branch is drawing criticism Thursday after an employee reportedly ordered the removal of American flags placed to honor a fallen Marine over fears that people would be offended.
The Palmetto Scoop received one eyewitness email claiming that the branch manager at Bank of America’s Gaffney branch at 1602 West Floyd Baker Blvd. “told a citizen who was preparing the route for a U.S. Marine killed in action in Afghanistan by placing small American flags along the roadway that the flags might upset some of her customers.”
Said the outraged tipster, “[The branch manager] took them down and made the citizen go in to get them if she didn’t want them thrown away.”
The flags were part of the funeral procession of Lance Corporal Christopher Fowlkes, 20, who died last week after an explosion in Afghanistan’s Helmand province.
WSPA-TV has also received similar tips about the “flag flap.”
A teller at the branch confirmed to TPS that the branch manager had been there around the time of the incident but had left for the day.
Bank of America released a statement apologizing for the incident and celled it a misunderstanding.
“We want to ensure the community knows how deeply proud we are of the men and women who have sacrificed so much in service to our country,” the statement said. “The bank does fly the American Flag at our locations throughout the country and flags were displayed in front of our banking center in Gaffney the evening prior to our dedicated Marine returning home.”
___________
UPDATE: WCBD in Charleston reports that Bank of America said the incident was a “miscommunication in corporate policy.” That raises the question, which policy would require employees to remove American flags that are part of a funeral procession for a fallen Marine?
Brenda Earls of Gaffney is the one that put flags all along Floyd Baker blvd and Bank of America took up the flags that she placed there! My suggestion: Dont bank at BOA Bank of America, bank at your lacal banks or credit unions!
May Christopher Fowlkes rest in peace
That just put the icing on the cake, tomorrow I am closing all of my accounts with BOA.
Bank of America can take the tax payers money, but not allow an american flag to honor a fallen hero? where is Fox news when you need them?
As a PROUD MOTHER of a US SOLDIER IN IRAQ I am OUTRAGED by what the branch manager at Bank of America has done. I am a customer of BOA but as of tomorrow will NOT BE ANY LONGER!!! This is UNNACEPTABLE!!!
What a disgrace. How!!! How can anyone be upset about the countries flag flying. The flag flies every day in many places and no one is offended. I say let the flag fly. Let it fly, every day as a symbol of the country we, and so many others who have lost their lives, are so proud to serve. Let it fly for the freedoms we share. Let it fly for the the people it represents. Let it fly from every house to every post office to every place that a flag can fly. Let the flag fly as an emblem of the fights we have fought and the fights we have won. Let it fly and be there for our men and women serving in the armed forces when they come in to port from overseas and greets them to welcome them home. Let it fly from the highest peaks, and on every shore it is our flag and if someone is offended by it let them know where the door is and the are more than welcome to leave. We are America the United many the symbol freedom to so many far and near, and our flag is the symbol that we share that we are Americans and proud of it, and proud of our flag, and proud of our fallen soldiers. When did we become such a nation, where we feel that our own flag may offend someone? What happened to this country? When did we become so afraid of offending people, by exercising our freedoms?
She was worried it might upset some of her customers. How about her removing the flags upseting most of her customers. BofA has put someone of this idiotic, childish caliber in charge of a branch. No wonder the banking industry is in the crapper with people like this in management. I am a BofA customer and I can’t even begin to tell you how upset and p.o.’d am right now. Keep it up BofA and I might just take Brian’s good and wise advice.
The bank should be required to vacate the City of Gaffney. They are UnAmerican and the community WILL not tolerate this kind of respect for a fallen hero. Everyone I know that had accounts there closed them today or will when they open on Monday. God bless America!!! And LC Chris Fowlkes family for having to deal with this at such a sad time for them.
*disrespect…excuse me
Don’t forget that many credit cards are backed by BOA. We would not want to forget to cancel those as well.
This is complete bull shit as a Marine veteran I believe all members of the military should be recognized for there sacrifice they made. If your an American and you get offended by the nations flag leave and go someone else. i served and protect all you citizens to be free not to criticize the flag and not show the up most respect to a fallen Marine BOA should change there name to BOH Bank of Hitler.
absolutely ridiculous. I’m offended
I too was very offended and putting the flags back up later was too little too late. I took my money from there today actually and have banked there since I was a teenager.
I do not have any accounts with BOA but I am encouraging all my family and friend who do to close them as soon as they can. If they want to hire people like that then they don’t deserve our business and should take America out of their name… there is nothing American about them.
What an idiot. The emblem for the company is an American Flag. Can I say that again. The emblem for Bank of AMERICA is the flag. This woman is a putrid sack of chemicals. I’m cancelling tomorrow.
I am deploying within the next few months I have been in the Military for 12 years and this will be mt 3rd combat zone I WILL NEVER EVER NEVER HAVE ANY TYPE OF BOA PRODUCT OR ASSOCIATE WITH PEOPLE THAT I KNOW HAVE ONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THATS MY CHOICE AS AN AMERICAN
Re: BOA’s alleged “miscommunication in corporate policy”
“You Lie”
The branch in Lexington [Main Street, Lexington, South Carolina, United States of America] refuses to fly the flag the tellers tell me they have on site. The flag pole has been naked for over 2 years now. It is a disgrace, and a poke in the eye.
An aside –
This branch always makes sure their lawn maintenance is performed on Sunday morning. Coincidence? I don’t think so. It is a poke in the eye of America and our heritage.
Close your accounts. By any and all means available.
BOA is without a doubt the lowest of the low. I called the branch today and “BRANDY” is the managers name who took the flags down was not in?????? call information asd call the branch!!!!!
BOA gave their apologies, why let one bad apple spoil the barrel…grow up!
Unbelievable and truly shameful!
Typical Bank of America action , am I remembering correctly that they are the ones that would not let the armless guy cash a check because he could not leave a thumb print about a month ago?
Bank of AMERICA does not seem very pro American huh??!
Bank of America screwed up in several ways, first not flying the flag to honor our fall hero, second saying it might offend some, well this is america and this is our flag. So if offends anyone, then they need to go back to their country and fly thier flag. Our men and women are giving thier lives now in the past protecting our rights, one being freedom of speech, but that must not apply to flying our own flag. So is Bank Of America going to change its name to Bank of XXXXXXXXX, cause if it is called bank of America it might offend someone.
Bank of America?
Bank of Cuba or Venezuela is their real name.
What is the bank manager’s name? That should be public knowledge I would think. If it isn’t somebody find it out and tell us.
I closed my account at BoA a few years ago due to their sorry customer service. We need someone to organize a protest at this BoA location.
What is this bank manager’s name?
Condolences to the family of Lance Corporal Christopher Fowlkes.
To ANYONE in this country who is offended by our flag, you are free to leave.
BOA, you should be ashamed. You offended you entire country: your namesake.
I’m disgusted at your disrespect for this Patriots family and his memory.
Bank of Arrogance.
I am saddened by this. Even if it was company policy, why would someone do this, if they had any respect for our country, our flag, and most importantly…the young man who sacrificed his life in the most heroic way possible, not to mention his family and friends. I say this because I understand their sadness. A wonderful young American Hero, Nicky Roush, died on August 16th of this year in Afghanistan. He was our town’s hero. I am thankful that the response our tiny little town had, was to put flags everywhere, messages on windows and billboards, and a gathering of thousands to welcome him home and honor his service. Every young man and woman who has chosen to serve our country, in the hopes of keeping us free, should be honored and respected. This sign of disrespect really shouldn’t be ignored.
Feel that creeping Sharia, yet?
This bank manager is obviously a neo-confederate anti-yankee, teabagging, Obama-hating racist or who thinks her customers are. ;^)
If I lived in that town and did banking there, I would PULL my money out UN-PRONTO!!!!!
SAD STATE of AFFAIRS when we worry about offending someone!! WHO WOULD be OFFENDED honoring our soldiers who died for our country??????
except foreigners who are here to try and Destroy us!!
SHAME SHAME !
How ’bout I quit B of A. Including my payments. They can take what I owe them out of the taxpayer money they stole. How’s that for being an offended customer?
I’ve had problems with this creditor in the past. This takes the cake. Bank of AMERICA is afraid that the AMERICAN flag will offend??!! This business deserves to FAIL! And to think, MY tax dollars went to BAIL THEM OUT!!!!
Honestly, I don’t understand why people should feel the need to direct their outrage at Bank of America, and close their BoA accounts. Although it may seem a bit ironic that a bank with “America” in its name would refuse to display citizens’ flags for fallen soldiers, the blame here should be directed at the specific manager or employee that made the determination to remove the flags. Another point I feel needs to made is that the bank has the right to remove items from their property that are left by other people. They at least offered to let her collect the flags. Honestly, if this truly is a free country, we shouldn’t be able to force private citizens, small businesses or corporations to display anything on their property.
I find it absolutely unbelievable that an employee could misunderstand a corporate policy regarding the flying of the American flag. The policy would be very cut and dry–either B of A supports flying the flag, or they prohibit flying the flag. Where is the “miscommunication?” Further, it is rather arrogant of B of A to take millions of American taxpayer’s dollars under theTARP program, and yet be worried that the American flag might offend their customers. Who are these customers? Illegal immigrants? Unpatriotic Americans? Customers in foreign countries? I grew up in Gaffney, SC, and I can assure anyone thoughout the world that it will be hard to find one person in Gaffney who would be offended by the American flag. Over the past year there has been a lot of talk about businesses that are too big to fail. Maybe it is time to let some of them–like B of A– fail. If all red-blooded, flag loving Americans refuse to deal with B of A, then we will accomplish exactly what our Founding Fathers sought to create when they founded this country-freedom. Freedom to refuse to support anyone or any institution that believes in something other than the Great American Way. My fellow Americans, it is time for us to stand up and be heard. Stand up to tyranny. Stand up to those who care only about your money and not about you. Stand up for freedom, for capitalism, for love of country. Stand up for the men and women who have sacrificed their lives to protect the ideals of this country, to protect me and you from those who seek to destroy us. Stand up for yourselves, for your children and for those who will come after you. Stand up America and be heard. Your voice matters much more than you possibly know.
God bless America, God bless our soldiers, and God bless you.
Anyone that is offended by the flag, or our troops can get their donkey out of this country!
During the Vietnam war BOA refused to cash service men’s payroll check out in California. For this reason I will never do any business with this company.
Why doesn’t the article read:
“One eyewitness claiming that the FORMER branch manager at Bank of America’s Gaffney branch “told a citizen ……”
Said the outraged tipster, “The FORMER branch manager took them down and ……..”
???
people should not accept any business or personal checks from bank of america,take them to their knees on this one.this manger should resign
As an Army wife living in Spatanburg I am so upset that that woman is so selfish not to think about the family. It’s so unamerican. As far as my accounts at Bank of America they are gone. Don’t forget MBNA is Bank of America so if you have an MBNA credit card cut them up……
This might be a good time for Americans to let a large corporation know that the “little people” can make a “big” difference in the way they find themselves operating or not operating. It’s about time we stood up to these large corporations and made our demands known.
i am an ex navy man,in listed on my 17 birthday.if these people do not like our flag for what it stands for and the men and woman that gave there lives for our country and freedoms got to red china where ther tell you what you can and can’t do.we fought for these freedoms and still are.yes close all accounts with B.O.A.
I do not bank with BOA but feel deeply offended by this action. I’m also a retired Marine, Vietnam veteran. The loss of a brother Marine in the protection of freedom hurts deeply, as does the loss of any of our brothers/sisters in the other services. Will pass this along to all my friends for their action. Semper Fi.
Extremely disturbing. As I read these comments, I am trying to think of a way BOA should do something BIG to show respect, but the damage has been done. I watched as the prossesion made its way through Gaffney, and the family of the fallen hero was so thankful to this community for the love and support, please keep them in your prayers, they have suffered a tragic loss, and need healing from those of us who care.
Are we really certain that this is the Bank of America or the Bank of China?
the branch manager should be fired and the people should change banks this is unamerican
Bank of America released a statement saying, in part “The bank does fly the American Flag at our locations throughout the country …” The street view photo of the BOA branch on West Floyd Baker Blvd. that is posted on Google Earth shows no evidence of a flag or a flagpole.
Let’s get serious about this and make some calls to the corporate office demanding the removal of the banks general manager and also start canceling accounts & credit cards with this organization. There cannot be much more of a disrespectful thing to do.
I wonder if this was one of their children who freely gave their life for this great nation, if this would have occurred. Honor this young man and his family by taking action now. The Banks # is 864.487.3651
Bank of Afghanistan!!!
Get the facts straight. The manager had been out of the country with me for a week and knew nothing about the soldiers death. Wonder why Mrs Brenda Earls didn’t inform her of the reason the flags were being put out? Sorry that she didn’t stay tuned while she was in another country! Brandy is a personal friend of mine and has family in the military now, so let’s make this about the family, not some ignorant woman in Gaffney!
In response to # 49. It doesn’t matter if she had been out of the country for a year! Why should she be worried about American Flags offending anyone for any reason? Is she ashamed of the American Flag? It should not matter why the flags were being placed there. Instead of pleading ignorant, she could have allowed them to be put back when she was informed of the reason, and I am sure she was informed quickly. What is wrong with people these days?
Who cares whether the manager was out of the country or not??? Since when is the American flag “offensive”????? If it IS offensive to some customers, let them go live in another country of their choosing. I am sick and tired of the American flag and the American way of life being shredded because of “political correctness” and “afraid” of offending! Either we stand up as Americans or we don’t.
Who cares if she was out of the country? You look outside and see small flags and you go to remove them …. And Seeing flags at all the other businesses and even saying she didn’t want to offend anyone while she was doing it….. Don’t make excuses. For ONE day!!! Someone can’t for one day just pretend to love one another. It wasn’t all about America… That family lost their baby boy!! Can we not show an ounce of compassion? One day you will beg for that same compassion. God have mercy on this country!
To say that she was out of the country and use that as an excuse is crazy. She simply had to look up and down the street of Gaffeny to know something expremly important was happeing. Maybe she should have ask a few questions herself. No radio in the car on the way to work? No newspaper anywhere? She has no sympathy from me. I am a proud mother of a UNITED STATE MARINE ! How dare the life of this soldier be treated so carelessly by her explanation that she was out of the country. Semper Fi!!!! Maybe some private citizens need to learn the meaning of the word.
BOA wont fly the American Flag and Obama is flying the Communist Flag at the White House See Article below
China’s national flag to go up on White House lawn: Sept 20
Posted July 13th, 2009 by SteveMT
By Hou Lei (chinadaily.com.cn)
Updated: 2009-07-13 16:45
The national flag of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) will be hoisted at the South Lawn of the White House in Washington on September 20, media reported Sunday.
Chinese associations in the United States had applied to hold a ceremony in front of the US President’s residence to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the founding of PRC.
Chen Ronghua, chairman of Fujian Association of the United States, told reporters that their application was approved not only because of the sound Sino-US relations but also because China is a responsible country.
“Many Americans admire China due to the success of last year’s Beijing Olympics,” said Chen.
More than 1,000 people will attend the ceremony and the performances held after it, according to Zhao Luqun, who will direct the performances.
Zhao said the performances will demonstrate the friendship, magnanimous spirit and kindness of modern Chinese people.
Its not about a woman in Gaffney. Sorry Brooke… Gaffney is a small town and this story of a fallen soldier has been on the tv & radio. I find it hard to believe that this woman didn’t know about what was going on. How many days a year does a town line the streets with flags? Not often. Oh, I forgot Labor Day just past and we line the street with flags for Labor Day. I wasn’t there but I believe the news story not the branch manager. And I usually don’t agree with the media because so much of the press is liberals. The spoke person for BOA needs to do their homework about all their locations flying flags. Guess what… the BOA in Greer and on Haywood Rd Greenville SC does not have a flag pole or a flag. Moses what country are you from…it doesn’t sound like you are from the good ol USA. we are talking about a person that died because he was protecting our country. Shame on you for trying to remind everyone that the bank has the right to take down property that don’t belong to them. It was a flag that stands for America on B of A property. And Steve, who are you telling people to grow up. BOA is wrong. Shame on anyone who believes that the BOA should be forgiven because they said SORRY, I didn’t know. Shame Shame Shame.
That is a crock of crap. Who in the hell would make that kind of decision? That’s ok because we have already closed all of our accounts with B of A. So what if they said they were sorry, they should have never touched the flags in the first place.
I was so upset about this. I emailed the white house at http://www.whitehouse.gov . Maybe if everyone would email about this it would get national attention and Bank of America can be exposed for what they really are.
And another thing, “the manager had been out of the country for a week”, comes back and takes up flags bescause she doesn’t want to offend anybody. How ironic is that? Maybe she should have stayed in the other “country”.
I cannot stand Bank of America. Their name is Bank of AMERICA…… If anyone in The United States of America is offended by the American flag then move. I am so tired of this country and the politically correct attitude we have taken.
Offended? Yes I am offended by Bank of America. They take the bailout money, fail to disclose material facts to the public (by the way we call that lying in the south), and screw their customers by raising fees and interest rates to keep incompetent executives making millions……that is offensive.
Support our troops and close your B of A accounts.
Semper Fidelis!
my question is as wrong as we think it was and it was to remove the flags did the lady who placed the flags on bank of Americas property get permission from them to do so or did she just do it, and expect it to be ok just because it was for a fallen solider? i was reised in the south and raised to ask for permission so that things like this would not happen.
We all know that the issue has nothing to do with “misunderstanding”. It is one of a series of incidents where BOA slaps the American public and its own customers in favor of non-American minority groups.
So, all of you folks who don’t understand the outrage..or the hurt..or the one bad apple spoiling the good…think if it was your son..your friend..your brother…your daddy…he died to protect us, he gave his life for you in the simplest form..I mean not to fly a flag because you are worried of offending people..WTH this is AMERICA..he is a FALLEN SOLDIER!! Also, wth B Of A…..why is “Brandy” still an employee..and how do you misunderstand the welcoming of the American Flag on your property???
Tommy – “just because it was a fallen soldier” are you kidding me?
Your comment is disrespectful. That fallen American allows you the freedom that we all have today in America.
There is a price for freedom and some pay that price with their lives. B of A knew they were wrong thats why they issued a statement saying such AFTER people made a stink.
I AM PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN and if it offends anyone – too bad. Move to Iran.
BTW – the bank doesn’t own the land next to the street – it is public land.
Get A Grip, You who are Offended !!!
This Is the United States Of America, No Apology Necessary !!
Being Politicaly Correct is Un American , and a Contradiction of the Constitution by Which this Great Nation Was Esablished !! Pay attention B of A , or our accounts too will be moved ……..
FIRE THIS STUPID EMPLOYEE!!!
Well well, lets get to it…First, “The North End of the South bound BULL.
“We want to ensure the community knows how deeply proud we are of the men and women who have sacrificed so much in service to our country,”
What idiot wrote that? BOA thinks we are all stupid?
Then the idiot writes this. like they are doing something special…
“The bank does fly the American Flag at our locations throughout the country and flags were displayed in front of our banking center in Gaffney the evening prior to our dedicated Marine returning home.”
I say fire them BOTH for being plain Pampas morons.
How dare she tell the flag owners to go inside and get them. or loose them. I would fire her for just that alone!
Hey BOA, UNCLE SAM WANTS HIS MONEY BACK ……. NOW.
We also want the overpaied do nots out on their a$$ too. Where do these bone heads get off?
Jim in Tampa
Another reason I will NEVER do business with bank of UNamerica. Maybe we should all bring our American flags and Marine Corps flags to Gaffney and show our support for LCpl Fowlkes. Like “Proud Veteran” posted, the land in front is public property. Thank you to all veterans for your service to our wonderful country.
To the woman who took up the flags, I have this to say; Until now, you have been able to lay your head on your pillow at night and feel safe because of people like Lance Corporal Fowlkes. After your blatant disrespect of this young man’s memory, I hope you will toss and turn every time you lay your head down for the thanks you gave him. How will you ever look the people of your town in the eye again? Shame on you is all I can say; and, that doesn’t begin to say it all.
Bank of America, take the flag out of your logo. To allow this kind of action is NOT American. Maybe a pit bull would be more appropriate; it couldn’t be any more vicious.
#49(BROOK), “YOU LIE” too. I just happen to be very, VERY close to this situation. And Tate DID HAVE KNOWLEDGE of what was going on. She WITHOUT A DOUBT knew very much so what was going on and what the flags were being used for. I know YOU as well, and your trying to cover up this situation becasue of “your friend”. Well it’s to late now, the truth is OUT and soon VERY SOON, the whole COUNTRY will know what kind of inconsiderate FOOL this lady is. And I would ADVISE YOU not to stick to your guns on this because audio and video technology is the damndest thing these day’s. And to call someone ignorant show just that your about as intelligent as “your friend”. I have known TATE for sometime now and she constanly make’s these JACK ASS decision’s. She must think before she act’s (and speaks). Two things will come out of this, A) Mrs. Tate will soon find herself unemployed or B) She will be running a check cashing firm somewere in the desert. That is until they find her out as well.
Please folks….there are just no forgiving or excuses for this. Ms. Tate WAS told why the flags were put there..PERIOD. If you will listen to Ms. Earls on you tube…you will also hear (and I know for a fact)…that the BOA on Limestone St. has a flagpole, but has NEVER had a flag on it. YES…an “old timey 60’s” protest march to boot BOA out of Gaffney is in the works. We need all the support we can get. Will you join us ? Please folks…let’s DO make a difference for this country and the flag…”for which it stands”….
I read each and every posting and I was in tears several times. First off, my heart goes out to the family of this soldier and to everyone who has lost someone or who is struggling with a loved one being gone now.
Bank of American needs to accept responsiblity for this and give our money back. I think that each and every citizen should walk into blank of unamerica and demand the money back that we gave them to bail them out! I believe that the 8 billion that they accepted divisded by our population of 304,059,724 is approximately $26.31 per person. That is an awful lot of groceries at my house or a tank of gas. But of course those bank execut-a-tives don’t have to worry about petty things like that. They have us to bail them out. They don’t need to worry about the loan shark price of an overdraft, they have us for that. (not to mention the 3 day delay on the notice from the bank.)
I am sure that you guys get it. I can promise before God and My county that I will never do any type of business with the unamerican bank ever and I can make that promise for my future generations also.
God Bless this great land. If you are offended by the God Bless, then you should be leaving too!
Pray,Pray, Pray… not just for our fallen but the ones still fighting, for the ones who do not understand what it takes to put on a unifoem and travel across the world to insure our freedom to make stupid mistake. Pray for this woman who does not understand and remember that this is one brave child we are honoring. There are thousands still there. Do what you can for those and this will honor those gone.
I think I have a better idea. Please read this thoroughly & consider it.
Instead of cutting up credit BOA/MBNA credit cards, do what I have already been doing : Use the card once a month for a small enough purchase that you can assuredly pay at the billing time. That way, they get no interest from you, but spend labor, envelopes postage etc to bill you. Make them spend money on you instead.
Why be neutral when you can be a liability for them? Even if they decide to drop you, they are still expending resources to weed you out.
Please post any bofa “protest” plans here so we can join you! My family will be there, flags and all!
From Michigan, we back you and are outraged, sad and mad as hell. There is no excuse for removing the flags. Thanks for the info that MBNA is B of A. We will never do business with either bank.
The awful shame of this is that “yes” that young man and MANY more like him died for the likes of that so called manager. I gurantee if that manager needed the protection of that Flag, she wouldn’t waste one second yelling for her rights to it. And that young man would have gladly helped her defend her rights. That brings up another subject, WHEN ARE THE BUSINESSES IN THIS COUNTRY GOING TO BE AFRAIID TO OFFEND THE PEOPLE THAT WERE BORN ON THIS SOIL? Maybe BOA needs to move their offices to the foreign soil this young man died trying to protect them from. This would be a good time for this manager to find another profession if you ask me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yes Please ! Post ant details of the march here! I will be there as will all my family and friends…..Huge flags in hands!
May God Bless AMERICA and those that serve to
protect her. In their serving to protect, they serve all,
regretfully, it would include a person of this caliber.
This is America, land of the free and home of the brave,
the free are you and I,
the brave are our men and women in military service.
Semper Fi
[...] of his country. It was seemingly a very heart-felt and patriotic funeral procession. But all was not well in Gaffney, S.C. A South Carolina Bank of America branch is drawing criticism Thursday after an employee reportedly [...]
I was born and raised in the upstate of south carolina. i moved away about a year ago because of work and i missed it dearly until i read this article. i forgot how ignorant and immature the pro-war “socially conservative” majority of the state really is. you will get bent out of shape because of what ONE bank employee has done and you want to take it out on the whole system.
When the NY governor cheated on his wife you blamed his “liberal morals” and “lack of family values” but when the SC governor does it, he “made a tiny mistake” and claimed he is “merely a man”
So my question to you is this. If there was an Italian family living in Gaffney and their son was one of the six soilders that died in Afganistan the other day, would you be upset if BoA told them they couldnt put the Italian flag on their lawn of would you say “Hell YEAH, Go BoA!!”??
I would like to thank everyone that posted on this story, hopefully God loves me enough to steer me clear of the fine state of south carolina for some time to come.
I find the actions of BOA Gaffney’s branch directing the removal of our American flags regrettable and unfortunate. This was the one occasion that the town of Gaffney could demonstrate to the family of Lance Corporal Christopher Fowkles’ family their sincere debt of gratitude for this young man paying the ultimate price for the preservation of freedom.
As a veteran who proudly served my country, 1968-1970, I have experienced the disdain people had for our flag when I returned home in 1970.
Before we criticize the entire BOA company let us first understand all of the events that lead up to the removal of the American flags and other charges levied against this company.
I would also remind everyone that redemption is one of the cornerstones of our belief system.
Our American flags flies proudly today because of the bravery and sacrifice of our men and women who have fought for the preservation of freedom throughout the world.
Hey Brooke (post #49) -
So now that your friend, Brandy, knows all the details is she still patting herself on the back telling herself what a “smart, heads-up, won’t corperate be proud of me?” type-decision she made. Or is she feeling like a complete and total fool who has managed to cause more ill will against B of A than she could’ve possibly imagined?
Bank of America pulls flags of fallen HERO, Brenda Earle’s interview with Russ and Lisa
Video 1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eU3r5Pu_XIo
Video 2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65lcaPFhHFY
I will make sure thousands of military families know about this. Gotta love the Internet. This branch manager would be better suited for a Bank of Afghanistan assignment.
What a story, Bank of America-you’re going to lose lots of accounts over this negative move, and bad publicity! This is not a misunderstanding of Corp. Policy, it is something else altogether!
This is not the SC I grew up in. I am ashamed of the bank and outraged they call themselves the BOA. I am cancelling my accounts at once although I live in GA. God bless the Marines. USA. Dr. Mike Donnelly USA (ret)
As the son and grandson of proud WAR veterans I am appalled! This BANK should be clsoed TODAY! I hope every person in that town shows up there today to close their account and I hope all the other banks in town offer a SPECIAL RATE to anyone who transfers- that is capitalism at it’s finest! My heart and prayers go out to this fallen Marine and as a VET myself I know what the flag means to all AMERICANS! The AMERICAN FLAG should be flown everywhere and anywhere in this great nation. I once risked going to jail to stop a man from trying to burn an American flag- at a fallen soldiers funeral to top it off! I promised him if he burned that flag it would be the last one he ever did! Stand up for what this nation was founded on, the flag is the symbol of that FREEDOM! I closed my BOA credit account 2 years ago when they started to give ILLEGALS credit without a SS # or D.L!
Bank of America should be forced by law to change its name to reflect what it REALLYy represents – Bank of Obama. That sounds about right to me. This woman should first be fired then the corporation itself should be investigated for their “policies”. Jeez, this makes me angry!!!!
May God bless this young hero’s soul and bring peace to his loved ones left behind.
I feel so sad for this family who’s son was so disregarded by this bank. Where do they think they are? Hoe about moving their bank somewhere where the American flag won’t offend their customers or at least changing their name. “Bank of the Socially Correct”. I’m so upset that one woman could dismiss this country’s flag and the honor due this young man and his family. I’m sure the bank will suffer the backlash.
What a disgrace. I was born and raised in Gaffney. And for something like this to happen there to a local fallen hero, and his family is a crying shame. These men, and women honor, and die under the american flag. I will never step foot in a bank of america branch. And will encourage everyone I know to do the same. GOD BLESS AMERICA.
[...] Bank Of "America" angers customers! This has nothing to do with loan mods, just BOA reputation getting drug through the mud! I just heard this on cable news, and found this online to post here. Guess BOA should screen employees a little better? The news broadcast said that particular branch had over 1 million dollars withdrawn and/or accounts closed because of this. Americans, UNITE! Show these banks who owns who! Without our money, they have nothing. Bank of America in hot water over SC flag flap [...]
If this happened anywhere near my community my veteran’s motorcycle club would surround this bank with a group of mean and angry bikers holding flags in the public street. They would inform anyone who approaches of the policies and practices of this bank until the bank made an appropriate show of good faith to our fallen soldiers.
The bank is free to exercise its rights just as we are free to exercise ours.
There was a time when this country was less than respectful to its returning veterans. We can never let that happen again.
Dear, dear, stupid Brooke, It’s not about you or your friend honey, I think it’s time for you to move to …oh…maybe South America somewhere. It’s people like you who really piss off the rest of us. Get a clue darling or get the hell out. And as for BOA….that is the next liberal institution that should be put by the wayside. Never as long as I live will I darken the doorstop of BOA…..Rest in Peace my Brother.
My son John was killed by enemy fire in Mosul Iraq on December 25th 2008. He was buried in Moorestown NJ with full military honors and with the respect of a grateful community. This story has upset me so much – I want to let the family of Lance Corporal Chris know that this bank does not represent our Nation and does not deserve to carry the name of our Nation. Your son is a true american hero and we owe him for the freedom that we enjoy.
If you bank with BOA and you do not cancel your account immediately you are in dis respect of the brave men and women who have given their lives for our country.
YouTube said the branch manager’s name is Brandy Tate and the BofA branch number is 864-487-3651. It is unfortunate this bonehead action reflects on the bank and the other branch employees. I wonder what her political viewpoint is about the War on Terror and our military? I do not recall any BofA corporate policy regarding flags on the lawn in front of the branch. My branch in NJ has had flags on the lawn for special occasions. To protest, everyone should send Ms Tate a flag email and fill her mailbox. Her email account is likely firstname.lastname@bankofamerica.com.
WE THE PEOPLE BOYCOTT BANK OF AMERICA>>>please exercise your rights as proud Americans…boycott bank of AMERICA!!! We, as Americans have a duty to rid our great country of businesses who blatently direspect us as Americans (taking huge amounts of tax payer monies) , the American flag, and the brave soldiers who VOLUNTEER to fight for our (and your) freedoms.
They owe HUGE apologies to CPL Fowlkes family…which will never be enough to erase the damage they did in this families time of sadness.
I don’t know about you, but if they don’t want up the American Flag flying they can’t have my American Money.
Bank of America stated it was a misunderstanding, but was that after they started getting accounts closed and started losing money. An American flag flying will offend someone? …that lives in America? …in front of a bank named Bank of America? If that is true, then the flag shouldn’t be taken down, they should LEAVE our great country… AMERICA!
Empty flag poles at other BOA locations as well, we have a location in my town in Wisconsin that hasn’t (until this all hit the fan) flown a flag. It had been the same in nearby LaCrosse as well (again, until recent events unfolded), and yet we have those who would defend them getting bailout money and excusing the incident as a mis-understanding of corporate policy. What policy might that be? What bailout sucking executive perceives the American Flag as offensive? Better yet would BOA please make some statement as to what type of clients they have that would be offended by our flag? Those clients who may have been offended better realize WHOSE tax dollars bailed out where they bank at. I’m getting my home appraised ASAP so I can re-finance elsewhere!
ANYONE WHO FINDS OUR AMERICAN FLAG OFFENSIVE DOES NOT BELONG HERE ! As a boa customer this has caused them to make me close out my accont !
BANK OF WHAT COUNTRY? ? ? ? WHERES A PHOTO OF THAT WOMAN WHO SAYS SHES A PROFESSIONAL BANK MANAGER I WANT TO SEE HER FACE JUST TO KNOW WHAT A HEARTLESS BITCH LOOKS LIKE.
Bank of America obviously doesn’t give a hoot for America, they are illegal alien friendly (Bank of America Corp. offering credit cards to customers without Social Security numbers — typically illegal immigrants.) and now they put foreigners feelings over an American soldier’s memorial.
Hey B of A, remember us, we are AMERICANS and everyone seems to forget/ignore what is important to us. We are the backbone of America, the ones that are actually responsible for making money and paying taxes so the government can exist and “transfer the wealth” (like bailouts). The Silent Majority is awake and ready for action…..
Leroy,
The outrage is about the US flag and a fallen soldier not politics. If an American of Italian descent died, I would expect the American flag be displayed.
Brooke,
Why didn’t your friend Brandy ask anyone in the Bank why the flags were lining the streets rather than acting without knowledge of the events. Who is she afraid of offending with the American flag? We are in America and should proudly fly the flag. If people are offended, they should go to another country, whose flag does not offend them.
Respectfully
Sandra
This latest outrage by BOA is not a misunderstanding. BOA policies and outlook are anti American in the extreme unless they need a bailout with taxpayer money..which they did. Of all the bank choices in this country..why would anyone use BOA? I would put my money under my mattress before I did business with them.
I am so disgusted with this story. We the people of the United States of AMERICA give these Low Life’s a 25 BILLION DOLLAR BAIL OUT !!! and they disrespect the very reason why we fly our FLAG with pride.
Christopher Fowlkes you are a true hero to all real AMERICANS and we thank you and your family for your ultimate service to our great country. My heart goes out to your family and friends, and my MONEY goes out of this bank TODAY !!!!!!!
P.S. ,LET SOME COMMUNIST COUNTRY ,BAIL THEM OUT THE NEXT TIME! AMERICAN TAX PAYERS SHOULD FEEL THE SAME!!
For all who care, I am an honorably discharged US Marine and I have just closed all my accounts, including my Visa Credit card account with Bank of America. I called there customer satisfaction line to complete the closing of my Visa account – that number is (1-800-421-2110) and I will be sending e-mails to those in my Marine Corps League Detachment 968 urging them to do the same. I was very curtious to the lad y to whom I was speaking and explained my disappointment in what took place. She, in turn, was very nice and tried very hard to convince me that it was NOT corporate policy to NOT fly the American Flag. I further explained that this ‘Politically Correct’ crap must stop! How can you offend those who are living in America by flying the American Flag? If they don’t like it then get out and go home.
Finally, to Lance Corporal Christopher Fowlkes who gave his life so that we can enjoy our freedom, I say, “SemperFi my brother!”
It’s name should be International Bank Of America ! Run’en out of town.
I am appalled by this company that the taxpayers of this country dolled out 45 billion $$$ if I am correct, to bail out this company that couldn’t do business correctly and was failing. Those people that were allowed to keep their jobs while other lost theirs infuriates me to no end. All concerned in this ERROR should be fired for not knowing company policy. If they do not fly the “Flag” at business sites no one should do business with them. I only wish I had an account with them so I could go and make a huge scene while withdrawing my money. Today, I have become an activist to make sure this never happens again. I am the wife of a Marine Officer who proudly served for 30 years. God bless the family of our fallen soldier who proudly served and I am sure he would have rather been home working and dating than on the hot fields of another country dodging bullets in the heat with full gear. WAKE UP AMERICA DO YOU SEE THE WRITTING ON THE WALLS?
[...] [...]
(#49) – BROOKE… No, YOU need to get the facts straight!!! It appears that YOU & Brandy are the “IGNORANT” ones in this mess! The two of you may want to leave the country PERMANENTLY!!!
WAKE UP AMERICA!!! This sort of thing is going to continue in our great country until WE, the people take back our country!!!
VOTE THEM OUT!!!
BOA has created a lot it’s own problems. It has been the target of a boycott since 2007 for supporting illegal immigration through the issuance of credit cards using a matricular card, mortgages and the send money home program fro remittances sent to Mexioc through a program approved by the FED,
I am not surprised that the American flag might upset their customers.
For links got to
http://www.bankofamericaboycott.com/
http://www.alipac.us/article-topic-48.html
This is so very sad and hurts my heart My Father is a proud retired vet. and what Bank Of America has done is NOT RIGHT! This is america and the American Flag should be displayed proudy! My Entire family has loans with Bank Of American but, not for long we have spent all day changing our accts etc. and will spend all week or whatever it takes to change or American Money to another bank!!
If BofA doesn’t fire the branch manager in Gafney,SC that wouldn’t allow United States flags to be displayed on BofA property because “it would offend someone”, we will probably remove all of our accounts from BofA. Was this manager an American? I have read the initial response that BofA issued regarding this matter and do appreciate that the corporate position does allow US flags, however, the manager that made the decision in Gafney is so stupid and un-American that she needs to be fired.
I will cancel my Bank of America credit card due to this outrageous act. Maybe the branch manager will be appointed as the new White House flag czar!
First and foremost as an American, and a Marine family member, my condolences to the family and friends of this brave young American Marine. A lot of red American blood has been spilled to protect the rights and freedoms we enjoy daily. I thank every American Veteran who ever has or ever will serve in any fashion. I love you all. Bank of America has disgraced you all. They should change their name. Their apology is meaningless as it is just a sham effort aimed toward damage control. If America offends you, leave.
Brandy should be shunned by the people of Gaffney
It is hard to find words for the disdain I feel for this bank. They take our money and act like this, and it sure doesn’t sound like it is just the branch in Gafney after all. I will be checking here in Texas.
Also #49…where did this exec get the money to travel out of the country? Was it at taxpayers expense? Some of the billions they took from all of us? UTTERLY DISGRACEFUL!!!
If you are offended (embezzling institution of afghanistan) you have NO right to call yourself an American institution.
Bottom Feeders!
If Brandy was out of the country, it means some “order taker” took it upon themselves to pull the flags. Grow up people. BofA had very little to do with this and the reason that the landscaping is done on Sunday is because the Bank is open on Saturday to service it’s community.
I am offenced way over here in Dallas. This is the bank we gave
$50 Billion to? This is the bank being investigated by the Feds for
not telling stockholders about bonuses! They need to change
their name to Bank of Idiots or Bank of Un-America.
Shame to them!
Brent,
Some Branch Managers actually have culture and like to travel outside of Gaffney. Many people I know leave the country and they aren’t rich executives, they just save their money and take a Holiday every now and then.
DISGUSTING! My letter to friends and family!
——————————————————–
A few years ago, I was one of many who picketed outside the local Bank of America on Del Prado Blvd because they started a program to assist illegal aliens in getting credit. The program gave them an unsecured credit card if they could verify income — from any source.
Today, I’m even more frustrated and angry. I have attached a very sad story regarding a young Marine who gave his life for this nation and the freedoms we all enjoy… being a Marine veteran with a daughter in Baghdad is just fuel for the fire too…I suppose. Please take a moment and read about the disrespect Bank of America showed to this young man and his family as his coffin was carried by fellow Marines through the streets of his home town to his final resting place by REMOVING THE AMERICAN FLAGS DISPLAYED ALONG THE SIDEWALK BECAUSE THEY (our flag) ARE OFFENSIVE TO SOME OF THEIR CUSTOMERS!
Jamie has an account at Bank of America because all of scholarship and grant money is drawn on a Bank of America account. On October 14th she will turn 18 and on October 16th (she has school on the 15th) we will be closing her account. She’ll join me at Suncoast Federal Credit Union and we’ll just have to figure in a little extra time to adjust for the time required for her check to clear.
On a side note, Bank of America received 45 billion taxpayer dollars last year in the stimulus bill. Please forward this email with the attached story to everyone you know. Also, if you bank with Bank of America, please consider changing banks and tell them why. I’m writing to my elected officials to have them officially reprimand the Bank of America (and they should have to change their name too–they do not represent America)! If congress can spend money and waste time reprimanding a Senator who called the president a liar– surely to God they can do this too.
Melanie
Cape Coral, FL
http://www.congress.org
http://www.senate.gov
http://www.house.gov
http://www.palmettoscoop.com/2009/09/17/bank-of-america-in-hot-water-over-sc-flag-flap/
I really hope that Glenn Beck gets on this story big time and gets them run out of AMERICA.
Turns out that branch manager was Muslim.
This is ONE B of A employee. Have we waited to see how B of A is handling this as a company?
I saw this story on FOX and I am, for a lack of a better word, PISSED. I have sent BoA an email and suggested all my friends send one. They need to be held accountable. If there is any policy, it should be, You had better fly the flag, or you will be FIRED! Can’t misunderstand that one can you?
DITTO. CANCELING CARDS NOW. APOLOGIES TO THE FAMILY. GOD BLESS THIS FAMILY AS THEIR MARINE IS IN HEAVEN.FROM A PROUD VET. U.S. ARMY INFANTRY 1967 , 11BRAVO.
Bank of America,
Feel the country’s uncontrollable rage! What can you do to settle this angry mob at your doorstep? There aren’t enough apologetic press releases in the world! Now see! The country’s zero-tolerance policy for intolerance! Watch the blood boil on the blogosphere! Tweets of fury like an Alfred Hitchcock movie! Watch as 12.2% of all U.S. private revenues are considered for withdrawal over the actions of a single woman’s poor judgement. Citi licks its chops in your direction as other banks fly like buzzards over a bloated carcass!
I HAVE NO DOUBT THAT THE BRANCH MANAGER ACTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE BANK’S WILL. THE BOA IS AS ANTI-WORKING FAMILY, ANTI-AMERICA AS ANY INSTITUTION IN THE NATION. ANY AND ALL PRO-AMERICANS SHOULD CEASE DOING ANY BUSINESS WITH THIS CORRUPT AND SUBVERSIVE BANK. THEY ABET ILLEGAL ALIENS WITH AND THEN LOOK TO TAXPAYERS TO ABSORB THE LOSSES WITH A BAILOUT, THEY MAKE SURE CREDITS REPORT BEFORE DEPOSITS TO ENSURE THE OPTIMAL FORMULA FOR FINES ON LOW INCOME CUSTOMERS AND NOW THEY DEMONSTRATE A CONCERN FOR HAVING THE FLAG OF AMERICA ON THE GROUNDS OF THE BANK THEY HAVE THE AUDACITY TO CALL BANK OF AMERICA.
When I read this story, I though…NO WAY! But I agree with the masses of Americans who have written what they feel about this disgusting tale. This young soldier, and his family deserve an apology…but the only way to show the Bank of America that they are accountable for what their employees do….. pull your money out and go across the street. Anywhere.. but B of A… how dare they do this to a soldier’s family.. distressing, at best.
To borrow from the infamous reverend wright, GODDAMN bank of America….
If I had any accounts with them I would close them. This fallen Marine died for their freedom to have a damn bank!!!! People need to stand up, for our military men and women right now and close their accounts with this bank!!!
To Ms. Hoh,
Travelling abroad does not give one but a miniscule bit of culture. Having good manners that you afflict on others is a true sign of culture. I was not there and cannot verify what was said but the statement “if the flags were not removed from the bank they would be thrown away” tells me a story of indifference of others. I have lived abroad for many years and perhaps she gives the meaning “ugly American” something to think about. She has no social skills and should not be in a position that enables her to tread on others. In a managerial position she should know and her trip abroad I hope, gave her some enlightenment as to culture and manners or perhaps she was labeled the “ugly American”. Perhaps her trip put her in a bad mood seeing that she lived in a great place and her trip was full of despair and she returned to take her ill feelings out on others. Go back to your books on cultures and learn that one needs to respect all people regardless of color or creed. I respect your philosophy on the subject while I whole hardily disagree.
Email BoA Corporate and tell them you are disgusted!
https://www2.bankofamerica.com/contact/?lob=general&contact_returnto=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Ebankofamerica%2Ecom%2Fcontact%2F%3Fstatecheck%3DFL%26page%3D&state=FL
I will not do business at Bank of AMERICA. The bank mgr not respecting the very soil she walks on and the country that provides her eith a JOB…NEEDS TO BE FIRED. Bof A needs to be accountable to the American public….a “misunderstanding”
is a polite way of saying ….so what! This incident adds to my irritation of this banks’ making loans available to ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS. I have had it giving and giving and giving and BIG BROTHER taking and taking and taking, with NO ACCOUNTABILITY or MORAL COMPASS! By the way, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
Haven’t checked recently – BUT last I saw, the Bank of America actually uses a stylized version of the US flag as a part of their logo……….why then have any policy that could be so misconstrued by an employee? The policy ought to include the advice that if one is offended by the flag, then tell said customer to take their money somewhere else.
It is encouraging to see how many people are disgusted by the actions of Bank of America. I know that I have just recently become involved in what I see happening in America and have joined those who have been more vigilant in the past. What I would like to see is the Bank of America corporate policy in its exact verbage so that we can determine how it is worded to be so “misunderstood” by so many of the branches around the country. Either the policy is clear about not flying the American flag or BOA hires many managers unable to understand the written word.
I can not find the words to express my disgust with the incident at Gaffney SC.
According to a news report by a local media “WCBD in Charleston reports that Bank of America said the incident was a “miscommunication in corporate policy.” That raises the question, which policy would require employees to remove American flags that are part of a funeral procession for a fallen Marine?”
If this is, in fact, part of the BOA policy then please inform me of such and I will immediately close ALL my BOA accounts. If this is not part of your policy then where in hell is your manager from and what the hell is your manager doing? Further just exactly whom does she belive would be “offended”? Certainly not an American Citizen! You need to find someone to manage your branches that is smarter than a FIRST grader. If she thinks the AMERICAN flag would offend someone she has NO clue about the offence she has caused by removing those flags to honor an AMERICAN HERO and, offence added to offence, threatening to “throw them away”.
[...] service of his country. It was seemingly a very heart-felt and patriotic funeral procession. But all was not well in Gaffney, S.C.A South Carolina Bank of America branch is drawing criticism Thursday after an employee reportedly [...]
THIS IS A NATIONAL OUTRAGE. THIS PERSON Manager Brandy Tate, SHOULD BE FIRED . LIKE RIGHT NOW. BEFORE WE TAKE FURTHER ACTION AGAINST HER. IT WOULD BE BETTER IF THIS PIECE OF LOW LIFE SCUM ,LEAVES THE AREA. CALL BANK OF AMERICA AND MAKE A COMPLAINT .DO NOT USE BANK OF AMERICA UNTIL THEY FIRE ,THIS LOW LIFE. SOUNDS LIKE THE SAME SCUMBAGS AT ACORN
I am outraged! I agree with a previous comment, if you are offended by the American Flag and you are in America then you are free to LEAVE. We have the most amazing men and women putting their lives on the line everyday for who? YOU and that woman who is a branch manager. That young man died so she could go about her day how however she pleases. What was she thinking? Company policy then why did they get OUR Tax dollars to bail out if that’s their policy? To think they use a flag as a logo image. They are going to lose business which is good. True AMERICANS stand up and be heard and help fight for this country!!!Anyway possible.
Manager Brandy Tate, WHRE THE HELL IS GAFFNEY ,SOUTH CAROLINA. ANYWAY. ALL THESE LOW LIFES .ARE WORKING FOR THE SAME PURPOSE. DESTROY UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. ACCORN, REV WRIGHT. BILL AYERS. BARACK OBAMA. BANK OF AMERICA MANAGER BRANDY TATE
Bank of America’s logo depicts a flag- I thought it resembed the American flag, but I was wrong.
They offer what is called “Military Banking” and I would highly suggest everyone in the military that banks with Bank of America find a new bank by the end of the day. I also would recommend that if you have a friend or a family member in the services, if you bank at bofa, find a new bank by the end of the day as well.
This is a not acceptable and the only way you can hurt bofa is to cost them money-everyone, please if this story offends you make a move today and don’t be afraid to tell them why.
Same bank, different story- if you or anyone you know has a disability and you bank with bofa- find a new bank. You remember, just a couple of weeks ago they refused to cash a check for a man who was born without arms because he could not give them a thumbprint.
Think about it- it is one thing after the other and they simply do not care. They do not care about you or me whether or not if we are their customers.
Bank of America Corporate Office
100 Tryon Street
Charlotte, North Carloina 28255
They will hear from me! Will they hear from you? They need to and that BRAVE soliders family deserves an apology!!!
My hate of Bank of America came long before this story, but this is ABSOLUTELY outrageous and just goes well beyong hatred of this bank! Bank of America should be forced to change it’s name to “Bank of Aommunism” and should not be allowed to even reference our great country!! I absolutely agree with what the person said in regards to “What policy is it that Bank of America has that a manager would construe as not being “allowed to fly the American flag in honor of a fallen soldier??!!!” That right there tells you how screwed up the policies at this “bank” are!
Bank of SCAMERICA is not sorry they did this, they are sorry they got caught and are receiving even MORE bad publicity and this cannot be corrected with an “I’m Sorry and lets stick the flags back up to make people happy!” You need a TOTAL overhaul of your wretched, thieving business and you need to start at the top and start getting rid of these communist morons you have running this “Bank”!!!
PLEASE, EVERYONE, tell everyone you know this story and close your accounts!! Set up protests all over the US to let them know sorry is not good enough!
I say we organize a National, Close your Bank of America account day and everyone go into Bank of America on the same day and just close all of your accounts with them! That is the ONLY thing these bunch of idiots understand and that is when you hit them in the pocketbook!!!
GOD BLESS AMERICA and RIP Christopher! WE LOVE YOU AND WILL NEVER FORGET THE sacrafice you and your family made for our freedoms!!
As a Marine Corp veteran with two tours in Afghanistan, this is an outrage to the sacrifice made to protect and preserve the freedoms that exist in these United States. The first insult to my service was seeing our president not honoring the pledge of allegiance by not placing his hand over his heart. Now this garbage.
B of A, you deserve the worst fate, a loss of credibility, that a bank can suffer!
I’m outraged as Americans and A People. How can this Bank take 45 Billion dollars in bailout money and not support the men and women who risk their lives everyday so we can remain free. We as Americans can not allow this to happen! SHUT BANK OF AMERICA DOWN. They are not the Bank of America. I PLEA TO PERSON AND COMPANY THAT BANK WITH THIS ORGANIZATION TO CLOSE YOU ACCOUNT TODAY. LET SHOW THEM THAT IN AMERICA WE STAND TOGETHER.
My heart goes out to every brother and sister who made the superior sacrifice and provided the rights you all abuse.
Wouldn’t it have been better off to ask for the businesses permission to put the flags out in the first place? This is not public property. I am sure the manager could have went through the proper channels to get approval.
If you close your accounts and take your business elsewhere, wouldn’t you all be adding to the problem of having a higher unemployment rate.
Most of you take for granted to rant and rave, but have no clue how companies work. There are policies in place that are not for every particular incident.
As for the Marine and his family, I am sure they are not worried who had flags on any particular property, THEY ARE MORNING THE LOSS OF A LIFE IN THEIR FAMILY!!!!
Do something productive for your community, town, county, state, and/or country, instead of complaining about all the wrongdoings, and pointing your fingers and claiming you are right all the time.
(would’ve liked to use different wording, but “I didn’t want to OFFEND anyone”… )
Not only do I bank at BOA, but I also hold 3 business accounts there, my Active Duty Air Force daughter, my other daughter, whose father put in 22 years in the Air Force, my husband, a former Marine – ALL will be discontinuing our banking services with BOA. This was a shameful and disrespectful act. What a load of crap.
Bank of America should be greatly ashamed for such a braisen display of ill will. This corporation is in the midst of America, with the very name they carry. To remove American Flags for fear of offending Americans? Any American offended by their own country’s flag being displayed in honor of a fallen marine should make a public press conference announcement of apology. This corporation is one of many being chastised in this country for raising their ridiculously high interest rates to higher amounts making it harder and harder for customers to pay their bills, if that isn’t enough to smudge their name in this country, remove flags to honor a soldier and see what actually happens! They deserve any disgust they get.
Just wanted to add that I closed my account with BOA when I found out that they are okay with illegal aliens having accounts with their company. So add to the reasons to not banking with that company..
I am so sorry for the loss of the young Marine in the town of Gaffney… may he rest in peace and may the hearts of his loved ones be healed by the God of Peace and Mercy!
it is not BOAs fault that Brandy is an idiot
Another sad day in our country. I would be very interested to hear from someone in this country that would truly be offended by the American flag flying at Bank of America and why.
John Wayne said “Life’s tough…it’s even tougher if you’re stupid.”
[...] recently read about the removal of the American flags from in front of a Bank of America facility in Gaffney. Never have I been so [...]
I can understand outrage when a company refuses to fly an American Flag. As for those who belive that the mistake of ONE employee constitutes the failure of an entire company. Stop and think for one moment. If the action of ONE employee in your company is ignorant, does that mean the company should fail and you lose your job? What is a member of your chruch breaks one of the commandments, should that congregation lose thier chance at salvation? What if ONE of your family members disgraces themself, is the entire family bad? We also have to remember that the companies that we believe wronged us also employees hundreds of thousands of our citizens. Why make the innocent emoployess pay for the ignorance of another?
As the mother of a Marine preparing for a deployment to Afghanistan, I was disgusted by the indefensible actions of the BoA Manager. If this woman is a mother, she should be particularly ashamed of herself. I have closed my BoA accounts and posted info of this incident on Facebook for as much exposure as possible. Isn’t it time we took back our country and the values that it used to represent? Speak with your wallets people. This is the only thing institutions like BoA understand.
To: Former Marine Disgusted By the Public: Many of the people writing in seem to have principles that are worth standing up for in spite of applied business practices. I’m sure that I would be concerned about losing my job if I worked for BOA and would like to diffuse the attention and blame one particular manager but there are too many instances cited of this bank and the policies it has dating back to the Vietnam war. If Americans ignore this disgrace there will be others following until we no longer can recognize the America we once had and were so proud of. It is sometimes hard to hold on to ones principles and beliefs but ultimately worth it to be proud of oneself.
To Miss Ledger,
I too, respect your opinion, but if the story I am getting is correct, this poor girl wasn’t even present when this incident happened. The masses are attempting to crucify her. I now fear for her! If she was indeed out of the country on Holiday there would be no reason to be checking in with her branch. That is what Holidays are for. Hopefully, we can stop the madness because I truly feel that someone has a misconception of what really happened and all has been blown out of proportion. She is a Branch Manager, that is hardly a top executive. Hopefully you will understand and not fuel this fire. Respectfully, Lisa.
Since when did what this manager do deserve death threats
You people think what she did was wrong But she was not the cause of his death lets get upset about that. Your outrage on this scares me for all the people who try to do their jobs.
People were not this enraged about the “Enron Scandal” which is far worse as there was proof of wrong doing. This is all a communication of “she said, he said” and a terrible miscommunication at that. People, grow up and leave that poor woman/girl alone. As far as BofA goes, they offer Military Banking, which includes free checking, checks, direct deposit and so forth. They do NOT open up accounts for illegal aliens. You must have a documented photo ID for account opening, and be verified through a security system, due to the Homeland Security Act. Where are you all getting your facts from?
This was a decision made by one person, not the entire company. Bank of america has supported the military in many ways, and still does. BOA has multiple military support groups, and has raised millions of dollars to help our soldiers. Some of those groups are
o Operation Homefront, which provides transitional housing for wounded warriors.
o The Fisher House Foundation, which is a home away from home for families of hospitalized service members.
o MilitarySaves, which is part of Go America, Save! and supports the unique financial planning needs of our service men and women.
Do not let one persons decision ruin your opinion about a company that millions of people work for: these people include military wives, girlfriends, family members, etc. The branch manager made a bad decision which the entire company did not agree with, and I am sure she will be educated on the action she chose.
TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT HAS HAPPENED ,THE DISRESPECTFUL ATTITUDE OF THESE AFFIRMATIVE ACTION SCUMBAGS. ACORN IS FULL OF ANTI AMERICAN SCUMBAGS .ADVISING PEOPLE HOW TO BRING IN ILLEGAL MINORS FROM CENTRAL AMERICA. NOW THIS PIECE OF CRAP ,IS TELLING AMERICANS WE CAN’T DISPLAY THE AMERICAN FLAG. WHERE IS THIS TOWN GAFFNEY. MAYBE WE ALL HAVE TO PAY A VISIST TO BANK OF AMERICA .AND SAY HELLO TO MANAGAER BRANDY TATE.
To #147 who is upset with the public – Just an FYI, it is my understanding from Fox News that the Flags were placed next to the side walk. Therefore, that makes it public property – in case you are not aware, you may think you own from the front curb to the back of your lot, however, the city, town, township or county has the right of way up to 12 inches past the sidewalk.
As for creating more unemployment, doubt it – if BofA goes down, then that means other people are banking elsewhere which means that those other banks will be hiring to meet the demand for service of all those who finally stood up for what was right instead of what is ‘POLITICALLY CORRECT”
There may be a place for “political correctness” but, small town America is not that place! I cannot think of any more offensive action that what this bank manager did. Even if this was bank policy, she should have went against it, in light of the circumstances. People who do not have any more discernment that this, do not need to be in a supervisory position of anything! I am sick to death of people doing stupid things and being allowed to keep their jobs. This person should be fired, no questions asked!
Everyone needs to call that bank and raise hell.
E-Mail corporate and do the same.
THEN- if you bank with BOA- change banks.
And yeah- where is FOX News when you need them?
This comes as no surprise. The BOA organization had no problem accepting billions of dollars from the “American” people. Without those dollars Ms. Tate would not have a branch to manage! I’d be interested in the “corporate policy” that was “misinterpreted” by Brandy Tate … who I hope is no longer the manager of anything. But it comes as no surprise since this is also a bank that has no hardship program for credit card holders in distress. They refer customers to a consumer counseling company that REQUIRES the customer to close ALL accounts by order of BOA!!! I’m so very frustrated as an American citizen that is helpless in fighting the despicable practices of many of the financial organizations. When will the President “of the people” look into these practices that against the very people that put him in office … the “little people” at the mercy of the large financial institutions that he bailed out.
Ms. Hoh,
You are quite informed with the “policies” of the bank and familiar with what is happening to the person involved. I never mentioned any name or referred to anyone other than the person involved in the error. I stand by what I said and as that family not only felt the pain of the “incident” but the severe loss of their son. Further, I suspect that you and some others work for the bank since the postings are at the end of the day. I do agree that this issue needs to be put to rest and no one should be threatened for we should consider ourselves a civilized society and act accordingly. BOA has indeed paid for whoever made the issue of a soldier’s funeral and the placements of American flags. Now it is understood that we Americans are a passionate people, not all but most.
Mrs. Ledger
To Annonymous posted at 3:12PM,
Thank you for your attempt to diffuse this situation.
To Mr. James Russo, who so rudely wrote in caps. If you don’t know where Gaffney is why are you even weighing in on this issue? You strike me as the type of person who loves to agitate and “stir the pot”. Most of your references are indicative of what I said as they don’t even pertain to BofA. Go find a homeless shelter and help in the kitchen. I am certain that there are plenty of pots to stir there!
I am employee of Bank of America and have been for some time. I was shocked by the decision made by the banking center manager. The bank does fly flags and is very supportive of the millitary personnel and their families. We have a set of guidelines dedicated to the correct handling and treatment of the flag (not flying it in the rain, how to correctly fold it, what to do if the flag becomes damaged, etc.) which demonstrates to me how important it is to our company. If you decide to close your accounts, please keep in mind that the people who most feel the impact are associates like me who are not managers or executives. When accounts are closed and revenues go down, we are the first people to go. I shouldn’t be impacted negatively because of the poor decision that one manager made.
CJames, how was what she did “doing her job”? Her own company stated they were not responsible for this action. She was not doing her job, she was expressing her own beliefs in a way that was not open for her to do. While death threats are a bit overboard, her actions were un-American and she should at the very least be fired for those actions.
Lisa Hoh, people are enraged because this Marine died while defending the safety of this country. He should be treated with the respect he earned by his service and by his ultimate sacrifice. He died so you could post your uninformed opinions on the internet without fear of a government stopping you from doing so, among many other things that are beng defended while you sleep in a nice comfortable bed at night.
I agree, however, that Bank of America is not in the wrong in this case, but she should be fired for her stupid, disresectful and un-Amercan actions at the worst of all possible times.
Get your money out of big banks. They have screwed the people over. Put your money in small local banks and credit unions. Live and buy locally as much as possible.
solari.com
That’s pretty gay of Bank Of America… plus, their late fees are ridiculous!
I would also like to touch on those who think that the banks were “bailed out”…they werent bailed out, they were given a loan, which was paid back along with billions in interest to the government. Much like the loans banks have given us Americans so that we can own cars, homes, and other things as well. Some of you people need to get educated.
It’s a shame that the war in Iraq was based on false Israeli intelligence filtered through Douglas Feith’s Office of Special Plans to the White House to justify it and even Cheney and Bush admit that the leaders of Iraq had nothing to do with 9/11. But I respect the soldiers who give up all to fight in the service of our country and what was done by BOA was disgraceful. Condolences to the family of the fallen child who was sacrificed.
In response to Alec Martin, Post #164, Fox reported on this story this morning and ran over seven minutes of video on the situation. They continue to include this on their website this afternoon. I also found mention of this online at CNN News earlier, but it has since been removed. Megyn Kelly, of Fox, interviewed Brenda Earl, the next door neighbor of LCpl. Christopher Fowlkes. Mrs. Earl was the person who took it upon herself to line the streets with American flags, in honor of her lost friend. According to the taped interview, she was confronted by the branch manager and told BoA policy prohibited the display of the American flag. The interview can still be seen on Foxnews.com.
A “misunderstanding.” If I’ve ever heard a typical, pathetic corporate excuse, this is a classic example. I bet BOA is just pleased as punch with this silly, America-hating female. A years’ worth of advertising dollars was just blown away by one leftist bank manager. And that is a great, great thing to see, for it means actual Americans are getting madder and madder with the work of the left. This Marine might have done as much for this nation after death as before. This story will NOT be picked up by 90% of the media, so it will have to be spread here on the web until Americans throughout the country are livid. And it must not die down until this woman is fired by BOA and a full apology is issued to the Marine’s family by that banks corporate heads. It’s time actual American’s stood up FOR this country. The left has stood AGAINST it long enough.
Brandy tate tel # 864-487-3651 opt. 4
Her Boss
Ronald Bell tel# 864-370-6748
Call him for an explanation and let him know how you feel.
RJ #154…..the manager said “This is company policy”… she IS the company! …so by the company’s own admission to deny the Stars and Stripes IS the company policy!
ANONYMOUS #160…Obviously YOU are a BOA executive, albeit a COWARD (using anonymous) you have FAILED to address the honoring of our beloved United States! That flag represents MUCH more than just the military! It also represents freedom of its civilians and ideals! BOA has been contaminated by taking bailout money to move toward socialism, and the removal of the AMERICAN flags is symbolic of BOA’s move toward that socialism!
I am an employee of Bank of America, but I am also a Navy girlfriend. I am a huge supporter of the military, and can also say that here in my BOA work center, we do multiple fundraisers every year to support the troops…coming from a girlfriend of someone who is on a 7 month deployment, I was bothered by this situation…but also know for a fact that BOA does not have anything against the military, and does a lot for our soldiers. We also have the american flag up in front of our building right next to our own…we are bank of AMERICA. and we support our troops. One manager does not make the whole company
So for Cecil, what is your tie to BOA or the military? Because i have ties to both, and know what is going on within the banks and overseas. I am not a coward, but have respect for my company and my ties to the united states military. My father also builds ships for the Navy…so please dont tell me that i do not know how to support my country. In our BOA center we have honored the soldier who died. I have lost many friends in overseas battles myself, and my heart goes out to his family. You have no idea what youre talking about
Mr. X,
In response to your post regarding the Marine that died while serving in Helmand Province and it is in Afghanistan and not Iraq for your information. This is becoming political or perhaps it was such that started this mess, mmmmm. What does Bush or Cheney have to do with the price of eggs at this late date? This topic refers to the soldier that died in Afghanistan and was being buried in his home town and the funeral was disrupted by someone who thought it was against policy to have American Flags on their property and they were removed. I and other Americans were outraged and stated so and perhaps the X was placed by someone who is afraid to place their name. I posted mine because I hate many things and dishonesty is one of them. What are you hiding behind your X and misinformation when we all should know that it was approved by members of Congress and the Senate to proceed in Iraq…. they did and now we are in Afghanistan.
And another thing, i LIVE in a Navy town…and grew up here. Just because I work for this bank which has one ignorant employee doesnt make me a bad person. Many people here support the troops…thats like saying you have one ignorant person in your family, so that makes you ignorant too…no
Flags were not flying this morning at either location in Gaffney. Flags were put up this afternoon.
Anonymous #179 – So how well did you do in school for the subject “Comprehension”. Not so well I guess! I wasn’t talking about the military. I said it is much more than that. I said “civilian”. Yes…civilian. Thank you for supporting the military! Good for you! I’m saying that the branch manager does not have a clue about the civilian liberties and American ideals…and she DOES represent the company. Instead of releasing all kinds of retoric trying to weazel out of a tough spot, BofA “employees” better be taking a more humble approach and simply say, “We are sorry! We were wrong in this behavior. We are wrong in our policy. Please forgive us, and we will change the policy” As to my connection with BofA, I will not address….you would be put to shame..
Well Anonymous…you are a good person. You have great appreciation for our country. Thank you! All the best to you!….but that manager needs educated on decency, and the company you work for needs to give that family a monetary gift that will pay for whatever mortgage they might have, auto loans or any other indebtedness and a scholarship for some young person to go to college! They may put a little meaning to their so-called apology.
What I was getting at was that it’s not a bank policy, and I know this because I work for the company….and my building has an American flag up on our property every day, Ive worked here for years and never seen it taken down…so to dispute your remarks, we are not against civilians, the troops, or the country.
Ms. Ledger,
Greetings! If you will notice my postings began around noon today, not at the end of the day. Also, until this morning, I knew nothing of this event but have been reading the posts here on this website. If what I have read is true, (OUCH) this woman was not in the country when this incident happened, and I feel sorry for her taking such a beating by her own community. Yes, I am familiar with banking procedures as I was in banking for many years, hence perhaps the reason that I have attempted to diffuse the situation and defended the branch manager. If she was indeed out of the country, what does this have to do with her? I would truly love to know the FACTS. You have been quite diplomatic in your responses, hence, kind regards to you. Lisa.
Paying for someones mortgage? You are out of line. A bank managers mistake is not a cost of the bank for hundreds of thousands of dollars…We are apologetic to the families, and have done more than our share for not only military groups, but also groups throughout the US…make a wish, susan koman, lance armstrong, etc. We’ve sent hundreds on vacations, to college, and sent millions of care packages to soldiers overseas…
[...] than a week after a Bank of America employee in Gaffney removed American flags that lined a procession to honor a fallen Marine, the Cherokee County Council has decided to close [...]
As a dedicated a American I also am offended by actions of this bank and the person that did indeed remove the flags. Had I been that employee and was given orders to do such a thing I would have instantly refused, walked out, placed my right hand over my heart and waved the flag with my left and given that hero the respect he and his family deserved. My thoughts and prayers are with you..Thank you and your son for the ultimate sacrifice…
Anonymous #187 – You better take another look at how cheap it would be to pay thier mortgage. It was reported by Fox News this morning that one entity alone moved it’s $500K account out of the bank, and that so far an estimated 1.5 million in deposits will be lost to other banks. If the family has a mortgage of $200K…I’d dare say many of those depositors would come back. $200K loss VS. $1.5 Million???
I’d say that is IN line…
Paying their mortgage does not even have anything to do with what was done…nor will it stop those from removing accounts with us. ken Lewis is not responsible for Ms. Tate’s actions
There is where you are wrong…as her superior..he IS responsible!
We have apologized, and I am not saying that is enough, but our company paying off someone’s mortgage is a bit extreme. If you were at all knowledgable on our bank, or finances in general, you may be more compitent when speaking about this situation.
Okay, so are you saying that if you own a company, and an employee that was hired by ten people below you make a mistake, that means you’re ignorant too? that means you should be paying for the mistake? I believe that Ms. Tate should lose her Job. In fact, as an employee of the bank, I don’t agree that we should have people like that running our branch. But there are millions of associates that have supported so many causes of the United States and have done a lot for the military, and other groups as well, that I do not think it is fair to look at this as a bank error. I personally have no control over who is hired or fired in this bank, and neither do millions of others who work here, so blame the big wig or blame the bank manager but dont blame the entire company.
Tom is clearly an associate (post #176) because the phone numbers listed have come directly out of the corporate phone book. So Cecil, if you would like to call and give Brandy, or her Boss, an earfull, go for it. Those are the correct numbers. I know we as a center have been educated that she will get feedback for the decision she made, of what stature i do not know as of right now.
i wonder WHAT customers exactly would have been upset about the flags??? perhaps the ones WHO are not US Citizens???
#1~My son is in the 82nd Airborne in Afganastan.
#2~sat. when i saw the pic in the newspaper of Lance Corporal Christopher Fowlkes funeral that a customer was buying the tears streamed down my face, i couldnt stop crying.
#3~i did not CARE that i might offend my customers by showing my TRUE feelings for an AMERICAN who gave for his/our country.
#4~when im not @ the register i pull a wagon around the lot and empty the trash, my wagon has 2 USA flags attached to it…IF my company EVER said i could NOT have them on the wagon i would NOT quit my job but i would make SURE everyone knew and i would NOT remove them, luckily they have NOT said that but im prepared if they do, NEWS 911. I wear my ARMY cap too.
#5~BOA needs to step up to the plate or change their name…a nice memorial in downtown Gaffney, a bench w/ Lance Corporal Christopher Fowlkes name on it might be nice.
#6~ i HOPE the anger towards BOA doesnt take away from the TRUE story here…a fallen soldier gave his life for FREEDOM for everyone in the USA and a TOWN came together to honor him.
#7~ even b4 this incident i NEVER liked BOA for many reasons and i’m glad i dont ever have to go in one.
You want to talk about BofA’s finances??? They took $25 Billion in bailout…b-a-i-l-o-u-t money! Good management!!!!!!! Stock price in 2008 fell from $34 to $3……that’s good…
…you mention MY competence???…..look at those numbers above Ms. Anonymous
and they paid back over 5% to the government in interest on that money. it was PAID BACK. It wasnt free…How much is 5% on that amount of money? How many loans have you taken out with a bank? Multiple banks got a loan from the government so that we could lend to consumers like yourself!
And by the way, the economy is falling apart…everyones stock prices fell!
Anonymous…Great dialogue! …and we have ended up at the poing of agreement (somewhat)..you said, “…so blame the big-wig or blame the bank manager..” that is what I have been saying! Yay! We agree! And it is getting late here and so I must sign off. YOU are a sharp cookie Ms. Anonymous and I hope your superiors listen to the “common people” within your company, like yourself..so they can stay in touch with humanity, and how people feel. YOU are good for BofA! Good night…and I wish you the best!
To #147… Are you a Bank of America employee? If you are truly a MARINE, which I doubt, (once a MARINE, ALWAYS A MARINE… not “former”!!!) you should be totally outraged about what has happened!
To: Anonymous… There is absolutely NOTHING you can say to amend what was done by this branch manager! I live in Houston, TX. I did a Google search for “Bank of America, Houston TX” and printed the addresses. I drove around for almost an hour this morning and did NOT see a single American flag at 6 (SIX) different branches in my area! I took pictures of all 6 branches! They will be posted tonight.
Crawl back under your rock!!!
I hate to spoil anyone fun, but this is America and this is our Flag, why should anyone be upset about flying it anywhere in this Country. Our men and women are over ther protecting us and some have giving their lives for us.
Fly our Flags 24/7 365 days a year in support of our troops and for our Fallen Soldiers. GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS AND GOD BLESS AMERICA!
Everyone has different opinions on this, but lets leave it at this…the one to blame is the branch manager who made this decision. The bank itself supports America, and I apologize to those who do not believe this. We have done a lot for our country. I am a US Citizen, American, was born and raised here, and have American parents…but lets be honest people, aside from this situation…the government loan given to banks was the best investment they could have made…they made 5-8% back in interest on billions of dollars, allowing them to gain more money, and that money was paid from banks…its the best investment we have made in a long time. The economy is struggling, and we all have to come together as a country
To: Anonymous… Post #172
Bank of America has NOT repaid the bailout money!!! The following link is to a Wall Street Journal article:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125176546582274505.html
The government is trying to get BOA to repay at least $500 million now!
Get your facts straight!!!
When I was stationed in Korea in the mid-sixties, BOA had railroaded themselves into getting the contract to provide all in-country military banking facilities. They treated us like hell then and I see things haven’t changed much. I was forced to deal with them then, but thank goodness I’ve never had to since!!
As an Military officer and having served 15 1/2 yrs to date this really pisses me of. It’s already a disgrace to see deaths of celebrities get more attention in the media than the men and women that die everyday protecting this great nation, now to see this crap on the news. Bank Of wherever you’re from but it’s definitely not America shame on you, and if I hadn’t closed my accounts like I did a year ago, I would have done it today. What a diservice to the American people, then the Lame ass apology.
i plan to close all accounts with this ridiculous bank.
my brother in law was killed in vietnam years ago.
a life is a sacrifice and americans at BOA have forgotten
that. they need to remember who supports them, oh wait,
we the people bailed them out !!
marie’
So Anthony,
Posted by Anthony on 09/22/09 at 4:13 pm, if my opinions are “uninformed” kindly inform me. I am wide open. Thanks. Respectfully, Lisa
If the flags on the premises might offend people, lol,….. ok, lets just say that they might,….. then why in God’s name do they have one on thier logo? I am not happy one bit whatsoever. I am originally from Gaffney, S.C. (Cherokee Co.) but now live in San Fran and I am so very glad that I was not anywhere close when this happened. I just heard about this incident today,…… I do not watch too much news nor read the paper, so I apologize for my comments being so delayed. BofA has screwed up so very badly this time and I just hope that anyone that has any type of dealings with them will bring your relationship with them to a halt ASAP!
By accepting all of the bailout money that they did, obviously they do not mind taking our tax dollars to assist them, so just maybe if we all come together on this issue we can show them exactly how much we can hurt them as well!
I would like to know when this women is fired. GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS!
First of all, I would like to see every Bank of America customer in the country walk into their local branch tomorrow noticing on the way in if indeed the American flag is being flown outside. If it is not being flown, cancel their accounts and withdraw all monies. This is one way the American people’s voices can be heard. If we all stand together as one strong American voice, we will be heard. It is important to send a strong message here. This is America. Change your Bank of America policy or your customers will change banks. We all need to send a message loud and clear that we will not tolerate this sort of unamerican sentiment. If you want to do business in this country, fly the American flag or get out. This branch manager should be fired because she is ignorant.
Lisa Hoh, My god, what rock did you crawl out from under. To compare BOA with the fall of the Enron Corp is beyond ignorant. Enron was totally about greed and misrepresentation to share holders. You are obviously unfamiliar with our great American flag, and the concept of
FREEDOM. Take your liberal ideas to a country where you will feel much more at home.
As a member of the Air Force, I am truely sad about the whole situation. The family of this young hero should have been able to drive to his funeral with all the American flags leading the way. And on top of that all the American flags along the way should have been at half mass to show repect for AMERICA’s fallen hero. For a bank that has America in its name you would think would have an American flag flying outside. What I dont understand is that Obama has not commented on this situation. He sure had something to say when his friend got arrested for the cops doing their job and had a few words about the MTV music awards with what happened to Miss Swift. So where is he now when it is a fallen soilder? That bank manager was not only dishonoring this young man that gave his life for his country but all that died before him and all those that will following. We are not going over excepting not to come home and for those that fall fighting for the freedoms we all have, they should not have to be dishonored the way that lady did to that young man and his family. And for those that say we shouldnt punish the bank as a whole for what one shameful lady did are wrong. They are the one that hired her and they are the ones that promoted her to bank manager. We in the military know how that feels…one solider messes up we all get in trouble. Grant it Bank of America isnt the “military” but that disrespectful lady wore a shirt with their logo and what came out of her mouth was on behalf of the company. Taking our money elsewhere should just be the start of things. My heart goes out to his family and for all those that have or will feel the loose of a fallen soilder.
1.As a member of the Air Force, I am truly sad about the whole situation. The family of this young hero should have been able to drive to his funeral with all the American flags leading the way. And on top of that all the American flags along the way should have been at half mass to show respect for AMERICA’s fallen hero. For a bank that has America in its name you would think would have an American flag flying outside. What I don’t understand is that Obama has not commented on this situation. He sure had something to say when his friend got arrested for the cops doing their job and had a few words about the MTV music awards with what happened to Miss Swift. So where is he now when it is a fallen solider? That bank manager was not only dishonoring this young man that gave his life for his country but all that died before him and all those that will following. We are not going over excepting not to come home and for those that fall fighting for the freedoms we all have, they should not have to be dishonored the way that lady did to that young man and his family. And for those that say we shouldn’t punish the bank as a whole for what one shameful lady did are wrong. They are the one that hired her and they are the ones that promoted her to bank manager. We in the military know how that feels…one solider messes up we all get in trouble. Grant it Bank of America isn’t the “military” but that disrespectful lady wore a shirt with their logo and what came out of her mouth was on behalf of the company. Taking our money elsewhere should just be the start of things. My heart goes out to his family and for all those that have or will feel the loose of a fallen solider.
Just chalk it up to politcal correctness mania which is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a dookie (poop) by the clean end.
I would certainly not bank at that particular BOA
Over the years, I have watched the quality of service of BOA that Ms. Lisa Hoh defends. Now, I did not read the entire thread but I am sorry Lisa, but this is something that gets under peoples skin. People make mistakes and this one got under the Hubble telescope weather or not the Branch Manager was on “holiday” (a word used by Europeans in place of vacation) Someone made the choice to remove the flags. And now we have this thread with a lot of unhappy people. Could have just left the flags there. I mean, who would actually be offended? I see american flags every where. I sure would love to meet a person who is offended by the American flag flying over American soil. I would have a field day
Seriously, I think people are angry that this is coming from BOA which I think has a big IOU for the American Tax Payer. A bank with America in its name.
P.S. Overseas banking with BOA for service members is about the same BOA service you get here. they open later in the morning and close about an hour before everyone gets off of work.
I couldn’t believe that i came to see this on TV. As a U.S. Marine, i am disapointed and upset that this has happen on our U.S. land. I hope everyone in the U.S. pulls out of BOA its sick.. got if i could see the one that pulled up the flags and its just disrespectful what he has done to him and to all of us that wear the uniform…………………………………..
I think that’s F***ing ridiculous first of all what would those flags be hurting?! They were honoring a fallen soldier who gave his life for the country. Did that bank of AMERICA employee understand that he’s working at the bank of AMERICA!?!?! And personally if someone was offended by the flags and chose not to use my bank or come into my bank because of that reason then I would rather not have them in or around my bank to begin with. I feel maybe that employee should have to fight in Afghanistan to understand what that fallen soldier went through and maybe he would appreciate those flags a whole lot more. My heart goes out to all of the military families and AMERICAN soldiers out there!!
I was a custmer of the old C&S bank which later became part of BA. since 1954.
So the stone should be carved, ” 1954–2009 REST IN PEACE”.
All my acconts and cards will closed tomorrow.
I was out of town and saw the story on TV this morning. If I had been in town all accounts would be closed now.
I am a soldier stationed in Iraq. I do not blame BoA for this incident it was soley up to Brach Manager and all blame should point towards him. I am not against BoA. As in any organization that large there are those that support and those that are against what we are doing here. Consumer Finance sent my whole platoon care packages, but you do not here of this in the news you only here one idiots misguided decision.
One observation: “flag flap”…..I really don’t care for that manner of reference either…..could have chose better verbage
I am a veteran and was dumbfounded by this. Our service members that serve this country, love this country. We have the greatest country in the world. I have been many places and seen many things. We as a country should boycott BOA and show America that we are still in charge. I have closed all my accounts and ripped up my credit card (paid in full) I can’t say that about BOA. Please tell the world and let AMERICA here our voice. Or Veterans and all the service members we salute you and God bless you. Show America we mean business. USN Vet
People, you need to realize one thing. This branch manager is a product of government run education system, and a socialist/fascist curriculum in college academia.
So why should we be shocked that she ordered the flags removed? She learned and developed her anti-Americanism in College from the Liberal professors.
Absolutely outrageous!! We are AMERICANS and when one of our own falls in battle defending our freedoms, people should be able to show their honor and pride for the soldiers and displaying the American flag is one of the best shows of support. Anyone who is offended or is concerned about offending anyone over the display of the American flag should be forced to live in exile for a minimum of 3 years (typical tour of duty at a particular duty station for most military personnel).
Let’s not forget that this is the same bank that advertises giving accounts to illegal aliens. That’s why I would NEVER bank with them in the first place. Now hearing this just makes me despise them even more.
The Choice We Face: We can worship God or money, not both.
You shall have no other gods before me.” Exodus 20:3
“No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.” Matthew 6:24
Both God and money are competing for first place in our hearts.
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:21
“You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God…” Exodus 20:5a
This is truly a disgrace. Show some respect for our nation’s hero’s.
I have a suggestion for all who are as disgusted as I am at the actions of Mz Tate. Go out and get some of those small American flags that get placed everywhere and put one in front of every BOA branch in you area. A forest of flags all over the country just might send a message. Keep track of them and make an issue of any branch manager who removes them.
TXGeologist on 09/22/09 at 7:15 pm
Did you look to see if any othe the other banks in your town had flags out? do you have a flag in your yard? Why do they have to fly the flag?
Fire the SOB Muslim!
[...] The flags were part of the funeral procession of Lance Corporal Christopher Fowlkes, 20, who died last week after an explosion in Afghanistan’s Helmand province. [...]
Let’s not lose focus of the discussion here Mr. Johnson (#80). Besides, Governor Spitzer engaged in illegal activities when he hired a prostitute. The question of immoral is mute.
In regards to BOA, I think it is sad that a single person’s bad decision can affect so many people; however, it is the corporate culture that sets the tone for management and needs to be strongly chastised and they need to choose better managers.
The last time I checked, BOA had the government contract to provide overseas banking to our Service Members under the name of “Community Bank”. The names may imply patriotism and community support but actions speak louder than words.
I have been a customer with Bank of America for over 25 years…thru acquistion of course….but intend to take a stance. How disgraceful.
Bank of America was also instrumental in giving home loans to illegal aliens years ago, which led to the housing collapse. You can thank greedy, unethical corporations & the “progressive” democrats for destroying the market.
Have to give unqualified individuals & illegal foreign nationals loans you know, otherwise we’d be “racists”
The real issue here, besides corporations who don’t give a damn about America or Americans & lust after the almighty dollar, is our lust for “diversity”, the cult of multiculturalism.
Who could possibly be offended by our flag? Those who hate America & do not wish to become Americans, that’s who. The millions upon millions of “immigrants” our government allows in each year who resist assimilation & are told by our government & media to retain their own language, culture & mores
It’s utter insanity & we all better wake up & demand secure borders & an end to massive, unfettered legal immigration
“Brooke”, I Hope you enjoyed your trip with “Brandi”… It’s just amazing how a trip out of the country can make you forget that there may be a real and seriously patriotic reason for a large number of American flags flying in front of the local bank in Gaffney, S.C. !!! I retired from the US Navy with 25 years of service and later spent almost 10 years with Diebold Inc. servicing your lousy stinking bank equipment and ATMs before leaving that company just because of pampas, arrogant, snooty, yuppie, chippie, employees like you and “Brandi” Get a grip and move on!! I can attest to the fact that BOA is a belligerent, ostentatious, overbearing bunch of greedy, pinhead crooks !!!! And yes BOA was the bank that refused service to the vet who had lost an arm and couldn’t provide a thumb print.. In fact they were also the bank that refused to cash a death gratuity check to the parents of yet another fallen vet !!!
“Attention on Deck!! A fallen hero”
Lance Corporal Christopher Fowlkes USMC
Rest in peace my brother
I’ll be in touch with “Bank of America” in this subject to see whether this branch manager still has a job with the company. If he does, then I’m done with them. I encourage others to do the same.
This is such a non-issue. A mistake by one employee. The only one making a huge fuss is Fox news and the dopes watching Fox who follow every word with baited breath …..I think I will burn a flag tonight
For those of you that are complaining about your tax dollars saving this and other banks you are incorrect. The government did not use any tax money to bail out the banks. Instead they took out a loan with China and it will be your grandchildren or great-grandchildren that will have to pay this back if they don’t achieve the goal (Chinas and the Dem’s) of collapsing the economy totally by that point.
BOA–closing my account with your bank. As the daughter of WWII Navy Seabee, mother to a US Marine in Japan right now and the grandmother of a US Marine slated to go to Afghanistan in Jan your actions are deplorable and insulting to the memory of ALL WHO HAVE SERVED/ARE SERVING THIS COUNTRY. BOA WOULD NOT BE FREE BUT FOR THEIR SACRIFICES.
I cannot close my BOA account because I already closed it years ago. Their treatment of me, as a customer, was terrible then and I doubt if it has gotten any better.
BOA should have apologized over this flag incident and demoted who ever made such a bonehead decision.
One good thing about this incident is that it is making BOA’s customers take a good look at the bank and how they are being treated.
I want to read a statement from BOA indicating that the particular Branch Manager in question has been fired for stupidity.
Does anyone know where I can purchase a bumper sticker
that reads, ” Are Brandy Tate and Jane Fonda Relatives ? ”
To those who have asked the question ” Is is lawful to
tar and feather someone then run them out of town in the
State of South Carolina?”
The answer is no, it is illegal in all the states.
Who the hell do these people think they are. An american soldier dies for his country and they can’t even allow flags to be place in their yard. I mean its not like its in their logo or anything. I hope all these comments are forwarded to the Bank of America as they like to call themselves.
As a retired Bank of America employee. I would hang the flag every morning before opening the branch. Now I must say I’me so ashamed of the employee at the Gaffney Branch. Coming from a family of the military, husband serving 32 years and a son 12 years, another son now serving in the military I have always been proud of the American flag.
This issue goes way beyond one dumb bank manager… It’s about the recognition of a fallen soldier, and we should not let that get lost in the frackass.
But it’s also indicative of general BOA policies. We taxpayers bailed out BOA, but not by choice. Most of us are suffering financially. Now we have a choice – close all your accounts at BOA and MBNA and pull the rug out from under them. Hide the money in your mattress. The FDIC could probably use the help.
Disgusting…..I never thought I would see a day where American valued were thought of as offensive. That branch and all of its employees should be ashamed. My heart goes out to the family and to all famalies who have lost brave sons, daughters, mothers and fathers. I hope the branch manager can sleep well at night knowing what she did. We here in Atlanta are truly disgusted.
To poster #230, TXGeologist,
YES I do have an American flag flying at my home and have had for over 30 years. I also fly a Marine Corps flag. Both are properly displayed, following flag protocol. Many of my neighbors also have flags.
Bank of America ….you don’t even DESERVE to fly the American flag!!
I closed my accounts with BOA a long time ago when they started to offer illegal aliens credit cards and loans. They forgot their name, bank of America, and became bank of aliens who might be upset by the display of the American Flag.
If you own Bank of America stock, sell it.
If you have a Bank of America account, close it.
If you have a bank of America credit card, cut it up.
I am not going to accept that insincere press release as an apology. This bank really is just an awful company and has shown its true policy towards Veterans in the past.
VOTE WITH YOUR FEET!!!
#237-Fred:
You are so bold and obviously have strong convictions. Why don’t you please let us know where you will be burning this flag and when?
I used my full name and if you post a response I will kindly give you my address so that you can know where I am and when I’ll be there too.
Lisa Hoh,
Nice try. You bring up a completely unrelated, non-analogous case in order to disparage those of us who are rightfully outraged? During the whole Enron episode and its aftermath, I found that those who were the most exercised about it invariably held some combination of: wealth/class envy, anti-capitalism, anti-corporatism, anti-bushism. That you would trot out this irrelevant shibboleth in this context says a great deal more about you than you may realize.
Don’t take anything in the preceding to imply the slightest defense of what was done at Enron. The perps are in prison, and rightfully so.
Too big. Too big to fail, too big to train properly, too big to manage properly….just too big. Please go visit your local community bank and talk with local bankers who report to people who live and work in your communities. Community banks are generally full of people who care and people who have a vested interest in the success of their friends and neighbors. We all make mistakes, but most community banks are well-run and have avoided the corporate mentality that removes local decision making and good common sense from every day interactions with customers. This is a call to give your local community bank a chance to win your business and your trust.
http://market-ticker.org/archives/1460-CALL-FOR-A-NATIONAL-BANK-BOYCOTT-BOA.html
Reaches millions a day….
Awww shane, just the type of response I would expect from some the crazy “patriots” who post here. Don’t you have a teabagger party attend? Time maybe better spent there rather then letting your alligator mouth getting your canary body into trouble.
You are all so quick to condem an entire company for one bad apple. If you have a messed up cousin, should I stay away from you? Geez. Don’t you have some some time to waste at a protest somewhere?
Moses at 11;34 complains that the bank has the privilige to run its business it’s own way.
Well Moses, the people also have the right to respond to this absolute insult to a noble military man who gave his all in their own way as well. If the bank chooses to ignore the local hero, the people are simply opting to respond by closing their accounts.
Moses, it’s a atwo way street.
Shucks, Fred. Just the type of response I would expect from a coward.
Your contempt for patriots is treasonous. Patriots are who founded this country. Patriots not only laid their lives and their riches on the line but also the lives of their families. The US wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for Patriots who you gleefully refer to as engaging in a disgusting, homosexual act-nothing but High School bathroom humor that betrays you and reveals so much about who and what you really are.
I’d proudly be labeled Patriot.
Do you feel the same about Coward?
Gee Shane, we could go back and forth all day, but I find it is hard to argue with crazy……time for you to retreat back to the bunker and don’t forget your meds…
#80/Leroy:
Wow! You believe in God!?
There seems to be a lot of confusion amongst many of those posting here. How is it that anyone with the name Brandi Tate could be confused as a man, as several posters believe? “SHE” normally indicates a member of the female gender. Why do some think that Ms Tate alone is responsible for this travesty when she clearly indicated that she was adhering to ” corporate policy” as she understood it? Why do some think that a woman accomplished and bright enough to attain the position of Branch Manager would be incapable of reading and understanding “corporate policy” as it pertains to flags? Rather than seeing ms Tate fired, I would rather see BofA boycotted out of business which would result in her losing her job anyway. This bank is a poor excuse for an upstanding corporate citizen and deserves to fail. The excuse they offer regarding a misunderstanding on Ms Tate’s part is pretty lame. If everyone that feels the same would take the time to forward the link to the Fox News video to everyone you know it could have an impact on this unpatriotic conglomerate. It is as follows: http://www.foxnews.com/search-results/m/26525654/bank-of-america.htm#q=gaffney+sc+bank+of+america
Yep. Just as I thought, Fred. You are a loud-mouthed, spoiled coward.
Yep! I’ll be looking for a credit union. Emails going out to BOA in a few mins.
Oh!!! BTW Fred, Shane’s right…You’re a coward and you sound like a draft-dodger or at least someone who’s never given anything back to your country.
As a customer of BofA and a wife of a solider fighting in iraq right now i am “offended”. i don’t get it? when are the large majority going to take back this country? what true american would get “offended” by a small tribute to a soilder who gave his life for our country? god bless AMERICA.
What do you expect from a bank named for a snake, BOA. A snake is what they are in all their dealings. Credit cards, checking accounts et al. They will slowly strangle the life out of you.
I am shame of Bank of America. I used to live in SC but I am glad I moved out. The state of SC has the rebel flag still flying on the top of the state capital building, and the governor who has an affair in South America. SC State is very poor and they even denied stimulus funds to the state. The schools could use the money.
Great post from Karl Denninger #255. I read Karl’s stuff every day.
http://market-ticker.org/archives/1460-CALL-FOR-A-NATIONAL-BANK-BOYCOTT-BOA.html
I googled the branch and got this:
1602 W Floyd Baker Blvd
Gaffney, SC 29341-1206
(864) 487-3651
Then I called (864) 487-3651 and pressed “4″ for customer service. I have a BOA account but not at that branch. I entered “0″ when asked for account number, etc., and after several “0″ entries reached a customer service representative. I asked if it was true about them removing flags in front of the branch before a parade for a US Marine, and the customer service rep said “NO, it is not true”, and chuckled (I am thinking they are getting a lot of calls). I repeated the question, and said “are you saying that your branch did not remove flags”, and she replied “Yes, that is what I am saying”. I was polite, and then hung up.
Is this customer service rep lying? If so, and if the story is true, I will be moving a lot of money around in the next few days.
I am a retired disabled veteran Marine and recently applied to refinance my loan with Bank of America. I paid for a home appraiser. As far as I am concerned, after seeing this, I will eat the $485.00 dollars paid in advance and cancel the loan today. The level of disdain Bank of America has shown to Lance Corporal Fowlkes and his family concern me deeply. In honor of him. I will insure my friends, family, other soldiers, sailors, Airman, Marines and other Disabled Veterans know that Bank of America is certainly a heartless Bank, but not a “Bank of America”. Thank God, there are other more deserving institutions that share American values, and know how to treat people who have served and died for their country with respect.
Fred needs to move to another country because he’s not welcome here anymore. He is a coward, whining, left wing liberal, un-American, a-hole. I’m sure he has few friends who can stand u. Our son helps make it possible for him to spit out his traitorous drivel.
Our son William is a USMC Corporal who is scheduled to deploy to Afghan in Oct. He volunteered to go. I’m personally sick about him going over. But we support him all the way and pray for his safety and all in his company.
We proudly fly an Am. flag at our home in Tremont, IL and another flag is flown at our cabin on our farm in Astoria.
We publsh a monthly outdoor magazine about hunting, fishing, shooting and the great outdoors. ASOMagazine.com
We feel that most Americans are like us who value, honor & support our military. Bank of America should be ashamed and if everyone closes their acct with them, then they’ll really feel the impact.
Spare us the I-love-America-more-than-you-do outrage. A bank manager (not known for high IQ) screwed up. They apologized. End of story.
Now you want her fired, you want her name and contact info to harass her, you want the bank branch shut down, etc.
It’s just a goddamn flag. Real Americans understand that.
I think everyone in Gaffney and surrounding areas needs to walk into that branch and give Brandy an American Flag…tell her its a gift on behalf of the American People! If I lived there I would do it personally….I’ve never liked BofA…now I really don’t like them! This is outrageous.
God Bless our Troops, God Bless this Fallen Soldier and his family!
BOA is responsible – because they have not taken responsobility. There should have been some type of discipline done to this Branch Manager. (And from the interview on fox with the corporate officail – sounds like nothing has been or will be done!) I will be make sure we do not support BOA in any way. This is a disgrace!!
I assure you if I had an account with BOA it would be closed,also just why do they not fly the flag like all the other banks?????????
Maybe they should change their name too. Having the word “America” in their name might offend people. They can be renamed Bank of the Bailouts.
#272/Andrew:
Your ignorance is showing. BofA has done many more un-American things in the past. This is just the most recent. Please do some research and educate yourself about that which you write.
I’m nothing if not fair.
I just got off the phone with a gentleman at the branch. He was very courteous and listened to me gripe. He could answer few questions and read the official response to me (which, of course, was cobbled together by attorneys and was greatly lacking). He did say however that he’s been w/the bank for a long time, lives in the community and finds this to be very hard to deal with. I pity him.
O yes by the way lets ask this Fred what he ever did for this country, obviously he is not American and sure as hell needs to leave this land.
NOTE: BOA acquired Countrywide and Merrill Lynch this past year, and not operate those businesses.
NOTE: BOA does operate Countrywide and Merrill Lynch
As a US Army veteran I am diguested with the action of the Bank of Un-America. Glad I pulled all of my accounts about two years ago. Recommend that “real” Americans do the same. Disgraceful !!! and there are NO excuses for this action.
First off I would just like to say BoA needs to give back their stimulus money that the American People gave them. Then Remove the name America from their moniker and maybe change their name to Bank of (fill in blank). After that then all true Americans who have money with them as I do need to instantly remove your funds and refinance your loans with a true American Institution. Firing the Manager will do no good since they will just put another lacky in to take her place. If we remove our money they will go bye bye in bankruptcy and all their non American employees will have to find a job. Also if they are employees of BoA then we should not afford them the luxuries of losing there job so no unemployment benefits or public aid. They dont want to be citizens then ship them where they want to be.
Secondly Fred if you are burning a flag tonight I will give You my address and you can come to my front yard and try it. I will make sure all my friends come over to watch. You see in America we defend that flag to our death. And you are definitely not an American. Therefore come on over and visit me and all my friends. We will give you a one way ticket out of the USA via a swift boot. Or Fred are you just another illegal alien who doesnt want to go back across the rio to your homeland. Well we dont want or need you so leave and we will wave goodbye. I am sure there are openings in Cambodia for you as a dishwasher.
just reading all the “comments” from Fred. Wish he would put his address in one of the messages. I know a few vets who would like to carry on this discussion “face to face”. He should get out from behind his mosque and pack his bags.
“where is Fox news when you need them?”
Fox News would bury this — conservatives believe that honoring fallen US servicemen is offensive and disturbing. That’s what President Bush said when he banned the coverage of coffins returning from Iraq, remember?
BRENDA EARLS is nothing but a TROUBLE MAKER!!!! BANK OF AMERICA DID PUT OUT THE FLAGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! She went and ran her mouth befor she got the reason behind what the B of A manger said! Instead BRENDA flew off the mouth like she always does (TROUBLE MAKER). The B of A manager went and put out the FLAGS herself! This was a missunderstanding and even the family of the falling soldier had said it was a complete missunderstanding. I my self have family & friends in the Marin , Army & Navy so I support them 100%. I have even lost friends serving in Afghanistan. I have accounts personal & professional at Bank of America and I will keep them there! They are a GREAT BANK!!! So PEOPLE don’t go and follow BREANDA EARLS cause you could get your self into TROUBLE by following TROUBLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
i closed my B)A account years ago for many good reasons and went with a local credit union where i am treated more respectfully. this just adds further justification for my decision. may BOA soon RIP. this is sad … this 20 year old gives his life for this country and you will not even let us fly our flag in our country … paid for by our blood … this brings tears to my eyes …
This is the United States of America! Where better to fly the American Flag. And who better to fly it for than an American soldier who lost his life serving his country. I say Bank of “America” should change their name, they don’t deserve the honor, nor do they deserve our money. It’s time the Majority stood up for what’s right. I’m tired of everyone trying to please the Minority. This is America- get over it or leave.
So I went out and took a look at some of the banks and CUs in my town, NO flags. What should i do?
Fogle:
You knocked this one out of the park! Congrats!
This nationwide breaking story, then the WIS primetime interview!
Just don’t start getting all Fox News-y on me.
Palmetto Scoop rules the blogosphere.
Fred.
I just relocated to SC from RI, thinking I was getting away from this unAmerican BS. I guess I was wrong.
BoA needs to change their name, and location.
“told a citizen who was preparing the route for a U.S. Marine killed in action in Afghanistan by placing small American flags along the roadway that the flags might upset some of her customers.”
WHO THE $#&# IS HER CUSTOMERS OFFENDED IN THE UNITED STATES BY THE UNITED STATES FLAG?
Sounds like corporate political correctness run amok, to me. The typical nationless corporation.
“Bank of America,” my @$$!
No wonder South Carolina is the laughingstock of the nation these days. You idiots deserve the politicians you’ve elected.
Oh…by the way. when I was “out of the country,” last, it was with a rifle in my hands.
My wife has cut up her BOA card, by the way!
Now, how about giving back my kids and grandkids the tax money you stole by legal fiat?
The manager was perfectly within his rights to remove the display material from the bank property if it was placed there without prior approval. However, the excuse given was so lame, they deserve all the ridicule they get.
#295 Tony,
The flags were placed on public right of way, not private bank property.
BOA has every right to do what it did you clueless buckwheats. One flag is ok, but a myriad of them is nothing but Naziseque symbolism. Maybe you right wing Jesus freaks need to read up on it.
Calton
Wikipedia Admin
If you love this country, take all your money out of BOA immediately and let it fail. It’s time to make a stand once and for all If you don’t, then your just part of the problem that needs to be eradicated.
Bank of A-holes- have you not seen the BOA song on YOUTUBE- the Bank is a cult- Never see my $$ again…
Posted by andrew on 09/23/09 at 1:57 pm
“It’s just a goddamn flag. Real Americans understand that.”
———————
Lots of American boys and girls died for that “goddamn flag.”
I suppose to you the Constitution is “just a goddamn piece of paper” don’t you?
If American flags cannot be flown on The Bank of “America” sites, then maybe I no longer want to do business with them. How dare they NOT consider us Americans who are offended by the NOT displaying them
I cancelled my BOA credit card yesterday. The representative asked me why and I said I just had too many credit cards. I didn’t hear about the flag removal in SC until this morning. Just wish I had known yesterday so I could have shown my support for the American flag by cancelling my account after finding this out. I LOVE AMERICA!!!!!!!!!!
#285/Robert:
WHAT PLANET ARE YOU ON?
The one that supports American troops. I rarely watch TV because of all the political bs.
I am a former US Navy vet and I will never ever bank with these communist. And yes Fox News did a very intense story on this subject this morning on Fox and Friends. They had a spokesmouth from BOA and he was spinning faster than a set of rims on a getaway car !! He said it was atragic mistake and that it would never happen again. I say close your accounts and move them to a bank or credit union that respects our precious military men and women.
Someone else wrote this Quote; tony on 09/23/09 at 5:29 pm
The manager was perfectly within his rights to remove the display material from the bank property if it was placed there without prior approval. However, the excuse given was so lame, they deserve all the ridicule they get…Unquote
I say get rid of that Manager because she’s a disgrace to our country and to the Bank Of America Banks all over the country…Whether she was within her rights or not, she should not have disgraced us, “Americans” and or the entire chain of Bank Of America Banks. After all, It was that one bank not all Bank Of America Banks would have acted that way. So I say off with her head!!! 2 thumbs down for her. Find another job and stop her from hurting a good Bank.
to fred 237. where do u live i want to be there when u burn that flag———SO I CAN KICK YOUR SORRY ASS
Classic right wing whack job responses, Shane, Harry & Cathy, wilie, Lewis……..put my address on so one of you tim McViegh wanta-be’s will show up at my doorstep……to be honest you would be in for a huge surprise, but I won’t go into great details… other than you first….and real veterans, me included, understand that the rights we protect include the decision for me to burn a flag or for a business to make a mistake about flying one. Unfortunately, what we have are a FEW really dopey extremists distorting what it really means to be patriotic……they can only look to FOX to understand what they should do next…….sad, very sad…..
FRED YOUR THE ONE THAT IS SAD. I DON’T BELIEVE FOR A SECOND THAT U ARE A VET. NO VET I KNOW, AND I KNOW PLENTY, MYSELF INCLUDED, WOULD EVEN THINK ABOUT BURNING A FLAG. UNLESS IT WAS TIME TO BE DESTROYED.IT WOULD BE DONE WITH RESPECT AND DIGNITY. sorry about the all caps people had caps lock on
And oh yeah let’s not forget Scott L and his whack job friends…..yeah true americans I can imagine the jacked up pick-up with the confederate flag all out in front of the double wide……gimme a bud!
And finally, James to……to my point thankfully only a few whack-jobs out there
This is a slap in the face to all americans and american soldiers, I guess freedom does not apply to americans, just people from other countries. There are not many benifits to being an american citizen anymore. may GOD BLESS the soldier who died for our country and his family.
As upset as I am about the flags being removed by the BoA manager I am even more disturbed that he/she would even consider throwing them out. BoA has lost all of my business, I closed my personal accounts as well as my business account. Way to go BoA.
What took plac e is unforgivable but to support the manager as an ex-B of A employee with a spouse who comes home crying every night because she works there tells me this is a culture. B of A doesn’t care about anyone. Not their customers or employees. I was, as is my wife; and all of you that have accounts…a number. This story is a true example of what B of A really is, a monster that should be decapitated. This poor manager thought she should remove these flags or she might be fired, this is how these people go to work. B of A doesn’t support people they support the bottom line and stock holders. I agree with all of you, it is time to say that family is first, towns are first and profits are secondary especially in a time like this and to a Marine that gave his life. God bless that Marine, God Bless that town and I hope that manager wakes up and leaves a company that makes her make THAT decision.
B of A flies flags at branches? I don’t think so.
I just spent some time with Google Maps looking up B of A branches in several major cities and then looking at the buildings with Google Maps ‘Street View’ feature. (Anyone can do this – don’t need to install Google Earth software.)
Found no flags or flagpoles at selected branches in San Francisco (no surprise there), LA, San Diego, Chicago, Denver…
Nary a flag.
If you do not like to see the AMERICAN Flag flying then get out of America ! NO more pressing 1 for english this is America speak English or GET OUT! It is time for ALL Americans
If you do not like to see the AMERICAN Flag flying then get out of America ! NO more pressing 1 for english this is America speak English or GET OUT! It is time for Americans to say the pledge of allegiance in schools again. We all need to stand up and let them know that this is America and that we are proud of it and if they do not like it that then can Get Out.
Leroy Johnson the fine state of South Carolina will be so much better off without you & your lack of compassion for humanity. As for BOE, I think the manager might want to find start looking for a new job and get some counseling for her anger issues. God Bless the family of this young Marine. Semper Fi and Ooh-Rah Cpl. Fowlkes!
@Fred & @ LeRoy
Exactly.
[...] employees to remove American flags that are part of a funeral procession for a fallen Marine? Bank of America in hot water over SC flag flap __________________ "When plunder becomes a way of life for a group of men living together [...]
[...] [...]
Whateva! Lady…nothing ya’ll can do now Bank of AMERICA!
yep thats it before long our <> will have every other
countries colors but ours..and we will be punished if we try to fly it in our own yard..
Yes. Stick to your local banks or credit unions. They seem to be more stable these days anyhow. But really, people, what’s all the hysteria about? He was a Marine. MUH-RINE.
It was his job to die overseas for no reason whatsoever. I mean that’s like NEWSFLASH: A baker is baking bread in downtown Charleston! I mean if said baker were planting bake sale signs on bank property he/she’d probably be getting the same response from the bank. I don’t see the difference here.
hey it didn’t put the word flag up there…i put the word FLAG in my comment…dern
They like their employees to be like the invasion of the body snatchers – to follow instructions and not think outside the box. This incident is similar to the man with no arms who could not provide a thumbprint to cash a check on his wife’s account with them. That branch manager followed policy also. Then they throw the branch managers under the bus for following what was drummed into their heads. My friend banks there and she said they pressure customers to get debit cards and bank online so they do not have to hire employees.
I’ve not seen any photos of where the flags were placed. But looking at Google Mpas Streetview I would guess they were placed along the sidewalk? If so in most cities the sidewalk is considered public right of way.
If I had a B of A account I would close it first thing tomorrow morning.
Two of their branches close to my house here in Florida do not even have flag poles. It is not a money maker for them. I have had a Compass Bank account for years and every branch has a flag pole and flies Old Glory daily.
[...] service of his country. It was seemingly a very heart-felt and patriotic funeral procession. But all was not well in Gaffney, S.C. A South Carolina Bank of America branch is drawing criticism Thursday after an employee reportedly [...]
Looks like the corporate structure B.O.A. got when they took on C@S, known locally as C***suckers or catch em and squeeze em. LET THEM FAIL. Additionally, charge her with theft for taking the flags, if possible. And would it hurt to hit the spellcheck button. HERE is not the same as HEAR. Fred, you have the right to be whatever the heck you like, but you need help. DELTA IS READY WHEN YOU ARE.
The EVIL EMPIRE strikes again. They posted 1.6TRILLION DOLLARS in assets and we bailed them out. This Bank should be forced to close and distribute the assets to those injured in action and the familie of those fallen. If you bank with them DON’T come to my business I will not serve you
what a bunch of crap everyone should pull there money out hey and i want mine back to dang it thats a load
As a veteran, the father of a serving Marine, and an American, we will be severing all ties with Bank of (un)America.
Bank of (un)America doesn’t allow their employees to use their mind and make sound decisions. They have so many rules and everything is either black or white or decision made by a machine. No one in the branches makes any decision based on what information is at hand. It simply is a dictatorship- this way or the highway. Looks like they will see deposits walking away down that same highway.
It is a crock for them to say they fly the American Flag at locations. In Silver City, New Mexico there is a flag pole and it has been a LONG time since a flag was flown there.
All Americans should exercise good judgement and leave this bank. It’s pretty much in the tubes anyway.
Brandy Tate used extremely poor judgement but you must realize Bank of America chose her to represent them as a manager.
Do any of you remember that after bofa got bailout money they hosted a 25 million dollar super bowl party? How can we expect anyone who uses that kind of judgement to make a good judgement call on anything else. Duh…….that is how they think.
By the way, the right of way is not owned by Bank of America.
I hope little hateful Ms. Brandy Tate is somewhere out of the country now- looking for a place to live.
Maybe everyone in Gaffney should go and plant an AMERICAN flag at the BOA branch. Let us see what that branch manager does. She should be F-I-R-E-D!!! Do you hear us bank of AMERICA? God Bless America.
Mrs. BRANDY TATE should be fired!!!
I am so proud of the people that are taking their money out of this bank. We AMERICANS need to do all we can to honor our country’s fallen heros especially when politically correct foolish people don’t have the common sense or moral backbone to do so.
#272 CRAWL BACK INTO THE SNAKE HOLE YOU CRAWLED OUT OF. HOW UNAMERICAN CAN YOU GET WITH YOUR VULGAR MOUTH?
My immediate response when hearing about the flag incident, was such anger that I couldn’t formulate the proper words quickly enough to email Bank of America website, and I told them so. What was even more insulting was their response, quote, “and flags were displayed in front of our banking center in Gaffney the evening prior to our dedicated Marine returning home.” unquote.
I emailed back, “the evening prior? What about the day of?”
This is the same bank that was going to issue credit cards to illegal immigrants in California a few years back! Disguesting!
Fred is full of insults to others because he goes thru his life being an insult to all who know him. If he really is a vet, then he should be ashamed. we don’t have a confederate flag, but we do have the right to have that flag. we are glad McVeigh was put to death & believe in the death penalty. we do not believe in violence against others. and yes MY SON & others serving our country give all the right to burn a flag if they wish. it shows disrespect to this country and all it stands for. just like BOA & Fred show disrespect for that fallen Marine and his family by making his comments & BOA removing those flags.
Easy killer, take those meds….and calling someone out about spell check is usually pretty stupid…..FYI….”spellcheck” is either hyphenated or two words..….and em? Is that bunker speak?
Posted by Harry & Cathy Canterbury on 09/23/09 at 1:55 pm
“Fred needs to move to another country because he’s not welcome here anymore. He is a coward, whining, left wing liberal, un-American, a-hole. I’m sure he has few friends who can stand u. Our son helps make it possible for him to spit out his traitorous drivel.”
How did you think I would respond to you there Harry after you posted this? I have not mentioned anything about the Marine out of respect. Only the issue at hand, a bank employee doing a really dumb thing. FOX stirs it up and folks like you who hate the left come back with the company line, they must be unpatriotic, un-American. Well I think you are un-American as well forgetting that this is a democracy. There is such a thing as freedom of speech. Perhaps you supported the crack down in Iran, China? At least you didn’t threaten me like some of these other extremists on here……
Fred,
America is a Republic not a democracy , ……… that is in America 101
Thanks David and thanks for not threatening me…
We have been banking with BOA for a long time……….not anymore. The American Flag should be placed everywhere and anywhere! We as a Nation should be proud of our flag and who We are as the people of the United States of America. We should also be proud and thankful to the men and women who serve and who die for our freedom(s).
We are deeply saddened, disappointed and angry and also scared that our rights seem to be diminishing one by one. What will be left for the next generation…….our sons, our daughters, our grandchildren?
I am STILl offended…after nearly two weeks of bank of AMERICA listening to the comments of PROUD AMERICANS, they still refuse to fly the AMERICAN flag at so many local branches…the bank manager in Columbia Tennessee (james campbell parkway) stated in my phone call to her they dont even have a flagpole!! She “misinformed me”… She later stated, after i pointed out to her there is a flag holder there on the bank property , that “a man” puts the AMERICAN falg there for Memorial & labor day. I asked if she would proudly fly the American flag daily if i donated it to the bank branch, she said sure, so tomorrow i will proudly donate am American flag to Bank of America in Columbia and pray it is not removed. Now, THAT would really offend me, again!!
What has happened to the United States Of America? Don’t fly the Stars and Stripes because it mighrt offend someone! Piss on em. Offend them. This is our flag and apparently not theirs. I have pledged allegence to it since I was a little shaver and still do today, including the word GOD. The young women and men who wear the uniforms of our U.S. Military’s are proud of it and some of them give their all for it. Anyone ( including those in Washington ) who will not allow it to be displayed proudly, any place, for any reason does not ( and in my book will not ) have the privledge of being called an AMERICAN. So fly it proudly and offed those who might be offened by it. I do.
What has happened to the United States of America? Don’t fly the Stars and Stripes because it might offend someone! Pi** on em. Offend them. This is our flag, and apparently not theirs. I have pledged allegence to it since I was a little shaver and still do today, including the word GOD. The young women and men who wear the uniform’s of the U.S. Military’s are proud of it and some even give their all for it. Anyone ( including those in Washington D.C. ) who will not allow it to be displayed proudly, any place, for any reason, does not ( and in my book will not) have the privledge to be called an AMERICAN. So fly it proudly, and offend those who are offended by it. I do.
Why doesn’t everybody get just as rowdy about the country taken ” In god we trust” away, the pledge of alligence no longer being said in many schools, and Merry Christmas being turned into Happy Holidays.
Fred…when you mention “company line”,is that the one from CBS, NBC, ABC, CNN, MSNBC and NPR?
Stupid, stupid,stupid. She must be related to the South Carolina Govenor.
If I remember right, Doesn’t BOA hold the government travel Card program? Millions in profits for people they don’t support.
At the age of 18…I joined The “US Marine Corps” …Served two tours in Nam…1968-69…home 8 months and returned to 1970-1971…..My Father served in the Navy 26 years…1940-1966 three wars..WWII…Korea….and the first part of Nam.
I fly my nations colors …every day of the year. God help the person that takes my flag down. That Flag represents …what this country…stands for!!!…If you can’t stand behind our TROOPS….”Please Feel Free to Stand in front of them.God Bless “AMERICA” Bernard T. Garrett……PS Canceled my BOA account …Today
If you don’t like the United States or what our flag stands for then leave.
If the United States offends you, then by all means go ahead and trust Bank of un-American, I however will choose not to. Most of these large banks out-source jobs and are so full of PR crap to sweep it under the rug it is unreal. As someone stated earlier, stick with a local bank or credit union.
-JR Miller
[...] So, I’ve decided to, every once in a while, throw in a little something about some AIM speak, since, to me, using it in actual conversation or professional drafts is just, well, un-American. [...]
Fair winds and following seas CPL Fowlkes
March on BofA…today…sept. 25… 2 PM
Wow. I’m just really shocked by all the hate. People assume they know just what happened. People are so quick to point fingers and blame. So quick to literally hate someone or destroy a business that allows millions of people to have jobs, homes etc. (not saying that the company should continue through bailouts and the like).
The hysteria shown here is overwhelming. It’s a FLAG people. Yes it represents something. No, I don’t think the flags should have been taken down in this particular instance. But my goodness. I don’t think it is evil to NOT have the flag. I don’t think it’s evil to have a policy stating that nothing can be placed on the bank’s property. I don’t think being Muslim would have any effect on the carrying out of those policies. Nor would a ‘liberal’ college education, being an immigrant, being a socialist, being a communist, being an athiest, or any of the other astounding statements made in this thread, have to do with the placement of flags (of ANY sort) on a bank’s (any banks) private property.
I can’t help but feel that people are so afraid or ignorant or just all-together paranoid that hate of anything that is even the tiniest bit different from you has become the norm. The level of rage displayed here, and the quick willingness to denounce others when we can’t even be sure of the true situation at hand really makes me sad. I must say, I fear for the country when BOTH ’sides’ spew nothing but hate and reuse to even attempt to come to a logical agreement so that some sort of compromise or any sort of understanding can be made.
We all should be offended but sad to say many are not. This is just another example of removing “American principals from America”. Remember how Obama all but ignored our “Christian day of prayer” but what he did to recognize Muslin Ramadon and is doing for the upcoming “Muslin day of prayer” in Washington.
Thats what you get with Obama and his crew. DO NOT SUPPORT AFFIRMATIVE ACTION Brandy Tate must be the dumbest person in Town.
” So quick to literally hate someone or destroy a business that allows millions of people to have jobs, homes etc” from Melissa #358….this is very interesting because EVERY TIME I call BofA I get a person from the Phillippines. Just who are they employing???? How many people do they employ in the US and how many do they employ in other countries? We are losing jobs at an alarming rate to overseas. The unemployment here alone is at 12%.
Same goes for my local branch.
Even though you think it’s “just a flag” do you have any idea how many people fought, died, sacraficed and honored that “flag.”
Something is wrong here…very wrong…we are losing everything we fought so hard for. Our flag should be flown and more often especially from a bank that has the world AMERICA in it! They are a bunch of cowards who are so worried they “mind offend” someone. Give me a break! This is disgusting!
We contacted Corp, and got all the “apology” and don’t know how the manager got off track, and it won’t happen again stuff. But they identified they would not discuss removing her from her job – which was the ONE THING that my family said we would insist on for BofA to keep our business. We gave the deadline of today. My son is an Active Duty Marine. My family has served in every war and every generation, back to the Revolutionary War. We will NOT support a bank that employs this level of low class, anti-American, anti-Military idiot. Even on just an evaluation of customer service – profitability for BofA – this idiot has to be rated as a failure at this point. We closed all 8 accounts in this house – costing BofA over $500K. We will encourage every Veteran friend we have to do so as well.
My, and my Family’s Heart goes out to the family of this wonderful war hero.
Semper Fi!
I am closing my account in protest. My Dad served for 31 years and was in 3 wars…so I am a proud American, unlike that manager. I hope she is Fired!
I have to say that one very positive thing has been accomplished by the disgraceful actions of Bank of America. So many people have come together to not only express their outrage, but to support the men and women serving our great country. My heartfelt sympathies go out to the Fawlkes family as well as the families of all servicemen and women who have been wounded or killed in action during this war. I also agree that is it shameful to live in such a great country where you are free to not only think the corporation or government is messing up you can also express that without fear of reprisal; and then have people that are ashamed to fly our flag. The branch manager may have been “doing her job”, but for a corporation to force employees to HIDE behind a corporate policy rather than allow her to think for herself and use her own judgment is disgraceful. Then they throw her to the wolves by claiming that the mistake was a misunderstanding of the policy. Their policy, as far as I understand it, states that they shall not allow any non-Bank of America paraphernalia to be displayed. As I was told, if they allowed something for one person, they would have to allow it for everyone. What a sorry excuse for refusing to make a decision and stand behind it. If someone is offended by the American flag then they are living in the wrong country. You are welcome to leave anytime, no one is stopping you. I’ve heard the mindless sheep party line many times and it still sounds like a crock of garbage to me. I do not have a BOA account of any kind and have not for many years. Why? Every time I went into my local branch, and it was weekly, I was treated like I didn’t matter and was an inconvenience. Basically, I should have been grateful they took the time to actually wait on me. I will never bank with them again either. Thank you to all of servicemen and women who proudly serve our country. You are far more appreciated than you can possibly know. Never think you are alone! To everyone complaining and expressing their feelings toward this injustice, keep up the good work! Some say we are an apathetic nation, I disagree! God bless America and may the flag proudly wave!
Speaking of mindless sheep there Drrajah13…….baaaaaaFOXbaaaaaa
1) I am a former Army brat, so save your pseudo-patriotic posturing.
2) I grew up in that town and unfortunately work there still.
Having thusly provided my credentials: BOA flies an American flag on their property, and flies it according to federal guidelines. That is adequate. The problem with this area of the state is that the majority of residents want to turn every square inch into some cheap, pathetic little roadside memorial, yet the perpetrators don’t want to keep the area neat and respected, as befitting a MEMORIAL. Invariably these histrionic displays of pseudo-grief wind up looking like hot buttered cr*p, and “someone else” is stuck cleaning it up. The flag is waved at every opportunity without any real regard for the true meaning. It has basically LOST any meaning. I will say it: that kid died for nothing, and the people who watched him grow and watched him come home dead are the worst kind of hypocrite.
I re-opened my BOA account today.
I am a sister to a fallen marine and I also bank at bank of America!!! When I heard this on the radio I cried to think that someone would do that to someone who jsut gave thier life to keep us free to make idiots of ourselves and not killed on site hmmm my question is what was the punishment for her actions NOTHING!!!!! What kind of place do we live in!????!! My heart goes out the family I am soooo sorrry and as a part of the marine family we cry with you
( Semper Fi!!!
To elljay: You must be one of the coldest-hearted, meanest-spirited people I’ve EVER ‘met’, to speak to the parents of young LCpl Fowlkes in such a mean-spirited way. To the Fowlkes family, I’m so sorry if you’ve ended up reading such drivel as he related to you and to your son. To me, you’re all heroes! I lost some friends in Vietnam and my teen-age niece to an automobile accident and the pain is so heavy, so heart-wrenching that’s it’s all one can do to deal with that alone. Then to have such a nit-wit thing be said about you right out of the blue…and so close to the even! Just consider the SOURCE! Maybe if it had been his brother, father or son, he’ld see it from a different perspective, though I’m not so sure he’s capable of that.
May the Lord be your pillow and post, your peace & comfort and may He hold you in His strong and mighty arms through this difficult time. I salute your son, and I salute you! I thank you for his and your willingness to pass through such an obstacle as this. Thank you for HIS service to help keep us free from terrorists and mislead politicians in high places. God bless!
that ‘even!’ was to have been event!
here’s the response I received from them after my letter telling them I’m closing my account. Dear K B,
Thank you for your inquiry dated 09/22/09 regarding your complaint. Your
concerns are very important to us and we will be happy to assist you.
First of all we would like to apologize for any inconvenience this may
have caused.
We want to ensure that you know how deeply proud we are of the men and
women who have sacrificed so much in service to our beloved country.
The bank does fly the American flag at our locations throughout the
country, and flags were displayed in front of our banking center in
Gaffney the evening prior to our dedicated Marine returning home.
Bank of America supports our troops and their families through the
following programs:
– Operation Homefront, which provides transitional housing for wounded
warriors.
– The Fisher House Foundation, which is a home away from home for
families of hospitalized service members.
– MilitarySaves, which is part of Go America, Save! and supports the
unique financial planning needs of our service men and women.
If you may have more doubts or questions, we kindly ask you to refer to
our Media Relations specialist Nicole Nastacie at 980.388.7252 or Anne
Pace at 646.855.5996.
Once again, we apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. We
value you as a customer and appreciate your business. If we may be of
further assistance, please contact us again by e-mail. Thank you for
choosing Bank of America.
Sincerely,
Sergio Navarro
Bank of America
Sergio Navarro can you see why the american flag is meaningless to these foriengers running our american banks?? wake up america!
Elljay…
Somehow, I think you and Bank of America are will work well together.
Reply to #33. Moses, you need to go back to where you came from. This is America, where this young Marine gave his life to defend idiots like you. We bailed out BofA with tax dollars because of lousy management and their ability to suck on the government like you apparently do too. If you don’t have a common sense thought, just keep your mouth shut. Yea, I’m a veteran , retired after working all my life and have two family members in the military. I imagine your family members are in the welfare line. Have a good day.
whaa … whaaa … whaaaaa ! Gimme a break you pathetic crybabies!
Go ahead and close your credit card accounts you ignorant frigging idiots! Have you ever heard of something called your Available Credit to Debt Ratio? It’s a huge portion of your credit score, and closing your accounts will only hurt it big time. Besides, you know that most of you either don’t have an account – or owe so much money to BOA, that you couldn’t close the account even if you wanted to.
Anything stuck into the ground in front of a business (be it flags, memorials, signs, etc.), will increase the fee that the business has to pay to maintain that lawn space. The company who provides this service will either:
A – Just not bother to mow there – leading to an unsightly mess and/or fines from local code enforcement.
B – Mow right over the obstructions – again leading to an unsightly mess and/or fines from local code enforcement.
C – Remove the obstructions – and charge a premium fee for the time and labor spent on doing so.
D – Weedwack around the obstructions – and charge a premium fee for the time and labor spent on doing so.
The bank has every right to control the property they are on and not have a mess made out of it by those who believe they have the “right” to do so. What the hell gives these jerks the idea that they can do as they please with property that is not theirs? Did they even consider ASKING PERMISSION? No, they just trespassed and did as they liked!
A few years ago, a drunk driver was killed in front of my business. This was a real jerk of a human being who had been in many drunk driving incidents in the past, but kept putting his drunk ass behind the wheel anyway. The two young people that he slammed his car into did live, but they are both very handicapped individuals. One is still in a comma to this day. One has no legs and has regained very limited use of his arms after years of therapy.
The drunk driver’s family decided that MY property should become a memorial to the drunken loser. I put up with the flowers and such for a little while, but eventually, the faded plastic flowers, deflated Mylar balloons and tangled ribbon, the moldy stuffed animals that the local stray dogs liked to urinate on, and other such objects became quite offensive to my nose and my eyes. Clearly, this drunks “loving” friends and family who put the shit on MY property didn’t care enough about his “memory” to maintain it. I removed the offensive display. Weeks later, they family noticed and was outraged. They even tried to sue me – and lost of course.
To make a long story short – you don’t have the right to make a mess out of someone else’s property.
In the case of the bank flags, I am sure that the person who put them up did not intend to come take them down after the procession. They would have become faded, tattered, liter. Flags are not supposed to be out in the rain and never unlit at dark. Did this person make accommodations for that? Of course not. She just assumed that she had a right to do as she pleased on property that wasn’t hers. The bank manager did the RIGHT thing!
let us not forget our brave young men and women at a recent Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks convention a Past grand Exalted Ruler requested that every Elk member drop accounts and association with boa. maybe losing one million accounts would open the eyes of this anti-American bank
they should change the name and take out America from it.
To Post 374 – yes BOFA has a right to tear out the flags, but given that they have a US Flag as their LOGO, they advertise to the MILITARY and have BIG MILITARY CONTRACTS, they took $Bs in US Citizen’s bailout funds and held the COMMUNITIES bank accounts in their banks (for which this was a funeral attended and marshalled by the Community given the size of this town)… it shows the complete and utter stupidity of this bank. Even BOFA Corp admits to their stupidity. This bank manager 1) violated corporate policy – according to BOFA (should be fired for deliberate misrepresentation of corp policy) 2) lost BOFA millions (should be fired for not meeting revenue targets alone) 3) created a media nightmare (for which I also imagine she can be fired if one looks at her employment contract – most of us have a clause on this in our contracts). BOFA did nothing, but lie about the American Flag being flow the NIGHT before – which is when one DOES NOT flight the flag. They have made their choice – which will cost them business. Citizens have a right to let them know just how much business it will clost them.
And for the fool that says your debt to equity ratio is hurt if you close your account? Please… we closed our large money markets – put them in another bank – making more interest (thanks BOFA). They extended a credit card against them as well. You are only hurt if you move your funds, and don’t put them back into another bank. My small hometown bank down here is thrilled that BOFA is populated with a bunch of idiots – this town has a bunch of retired military, and this hometown bank is just welcoming them with open arms right now. lol
We hare a family of Veterans – Semper Fi!
People like this are the reason this country is in the state that it is! GOD BLESS AMERICA! because we sure need it!
bao DOES NOT PROUDLY FLAG THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA…take a minute and LOOK. Look at several boa’s in your area…..”um, we dont have a flag pole” is a really lame excuse, wht dont you have a flag pole?? Is it, too, offensive???
No military Mom, because if you do and happen to make a mistake you have to deal with right wing extremists screaming bloody murder, calling you unpatriotic, marches etc…….it is not worth it to fly the flag at a business. I’m betting a lot more companies will think twice before they do….so congrats if that is what you wanted to accomplish
We don’t need permission from a bunch of negroes where we can put the American Flag. Incidentally to the moron that stated American flags are litter after they are put in the ground .HOw about we come up and put an American flag up yours.
Nice horatiorio…..you are a credit to all your other right wing racist whack-jobs………
Let see….They use the “America” name for their institution, and use the “Red and Blue” stripes for their corporate logo, and they took the bailout money from US citizen and then they refused to display the American flag in front of their building while the building itself sits on American soil? Definately something wrong with their brain, shame on them! I’m glad I didn’t open an account with them ‘anti American’.
I have a B of A credit card and as of tomorrow I’ll be cutting it up and getting my credit card at a local bank. Bank of America are the same S.O.B.s who were opening up accounts for illegal mexicans despite the fact that they had no Social Security numbers and had no business in this country to begin with. As for you Fred, this isn’t a forum for you left wing commiecrats to start whining and crying about those of us on the right who have had enough of Odumbo and company’s left wing b.s.
This branch manager needs to be fired for his/her irrisponsibility. This kind of behavior should not be tolerated.
This is America the country most of us love, and great admiration for our troops.
Hey Rob, I thought all you extremists at least believed in free speech etc…Isn’t that kind of the point of your tea-bagger parties, whatever they are? Anyway, at least we didn’t get the ancient fossil and the born again bimbo in office……..
We gave BOFA until last friday to terminate the manager or we would shut our accounts. They would not. We went to our local branch, with a copy of this forum’s article and the one on Fox, handed it to the branch manager, and said – “we are done”… She was very upset, as BOFA has not even told them why their customers are so angry right now. Evidentily other veterans came in and closed their accounts before us.
So, from our family – slightly over $530K – is out of BOFA. The local hometown bank is very happy with the new deposits.. and they have the flag up high!
I just heard that the branch manager from Gaffney is now working at the main office on E. Main St. in Spartanburg. Not quite far enough away.
This is freakin outrageous. WHO CARES if someone is putting AMERICAN flags on your yard. i could see if maybe they would get a little upset because they would have to clean it up. But thats not even a big deal, and that wasn’t the reason they were mad, they didn’t want to “offended” anyone?? WE LIVE IN AMERICA!! Man talk about flushing patriotism down the toilet, you can assure i’m pulling out of this bank, and going to USAA.
God Bless America!
[...] breaking the story nearly two weeks ago, The Palmetto Scoop has received hundreds of emails and had even more comments [...]
Yesterday I had to go to boa to make a deposit for son who is AirForce & in Afganistan. They had such bad customer service & told me I couldnt deposit money for him. I told her I didnt want any info just make this $100 cash deposit. Anyway she was very rude but finally did. (I work at a bank & know that is not standard). I couldnt believe how I was treated. But after seeing this I have a very bad taste in my mouth. & have heard other people say they had bad customer service. I’m sorry but if you live in America you should love the flag & what it stands for.
Bank of America does not fly flags at there banks!!! I have been by the 2 that are close to me in Michigan and one has a empty flag pole and the other one doesnt even have a flag pole but it did when it was a laselle bank. How can they have the name AMERICA when they dont respect it. The government should of let them fall flat on there greedy faces. Since they got the government money they have raised there fees and also starting charging for checking accounts.
there a san fransico based bank,that should tell it all.san fransico is the most un-american city in America!!!!
If BoA claims it was all a misunderstanding over “policy”,then that leads me to believe there exists a BoA flag policy that gave birth to the “misunderstanding.” The policy is what i want to see. If any BoA policy exists that prohibits flying the honorable AMERICAN flag under ANY circumstances then BoA deserves to go down. My five accounts are being pulled tomorrow. I have no problems offending BoA.
To anyone “offended by the American flag, Delta is ready when you are. Leave!!
Rolling Thunder (a group coming from up north of South Carolina and stopping about 2PM 10/3/9 in Greensboro, I believe before getting to Gaffney) will be making a long trip to honor the memory of the fallen service man. Hopefully FRED (piece of sh*t) can make it. I too am in Houston,TX and will check on whether they have flags up or not. While I don’t believe everyone should be complelled to fly the flag, stating that they do it ALL OVER THE COUNTRY should at least be checked on. These people and their crappy customer service caused me to leave them nearly a year ago, so sorry to say I can’t enter into a symbolic removal of my account (I’m too poor for them to feel the pinch, although collectively we’ve given them a bunch, and despite what ANONYMOUS says, they haven’t paid the money back and STILL haven’t fixed the problem with Merril Lynch either) Well good luck Rolling Thunder and let these punks at BOA die on the vine (if only it were to happen)
I am outraged by this incident! I am a military spouse with an active account with this company. I just heard about this story on Fox News. I contacted the company to inform them of my disapproval. I will transfer all remaining balances. I will also encourage my family and friends to do the same. IT IS BECAUSE OF THE SOLDIER THAT SHE HAS HER RIGHTS, NOT CONGRESS AND NOT THE PRESIDENT! Thank you to Lance Corporal Christopher Fowlkes for your service and paying the ultimate price.
As a former Marine that was stationed in NC and SC I know that 90% of the Marines I served with banked at BOFA! Trust me when I say that the branch manager did this for personal reasons. The f**kin bank has the word “America” in it and is located in a state that has military bases through out it. Shame on BOFA manger and BOFA spokesperson saying that the actions of the manager was a “miscommunication on bank policy” Seriously, does BOFA have a flag policy? I will close my BOFA accounts and my veteran friends agreed to do the same! Go bless our fallne heros and those who are currently serving to protect our nation
To Post 374 and similar Posts
I agree with you regarding the drunk memorial… under the circumstances I would not have allowed it in the first… but then again I would not be worried about “offending customers” if any chose to take their business elsewhere so be it. There would be no PR statement about a “misunderstanding of policy” B of A officials reviewed and approved their policy long before this incident. In MY opinion comparing your “drunk memorial” to taking LCpl Fowlkes home is comparing apples to oranges.
While on float my step son on two occasions was called upon to land on foreign soil… take hostile small arms fire… all so he could enter a building and yell US MARINES We’re HERE to get you OUT!
So if B of A corporate officers
happen to be unlucky enough to find themselves in this position while traveling abroad all they have to do is answer… I am an AMERICAN ???
They’ll save their ass too and not to worry… they don’t care if their credit score is 650 or higher!
Post 374… no name… no business name and location…
My business name is BuildWright, Stokes Co, NC and my name is Dave…
And I AM AN AMERICAN!
To Fowlkes Christopher LCpl USMC and to all the others whose names I do not know.
Hey Marine… THANK-YOU
The first thing that comes to my mind is, ARE YOU KIDDING ME!! First of all, What is on BOA’s logo?!!…A FREAKING AMERICAN FLAG!! I am a SSgt in the Marine Corps and this just really pisses me the hell off! This Branch Manager needs to lose her damn job! I am wondering what her nationality is!!? It would NOT surprise me if she is not originally from the United States!
To Post 374 –
YOU are the “ignorant frigging idiot”!! First of all, a lot of these people are probably be talking about closing their BANKING Accounts, NOT credit cards. I for one, have a bank account with BoA, but I DO NOT have a credit acct. with them!
Secondly, the issue the Branch Manager had was not with the fact of the flags creating a mess! Regardless of whether or not they would have eventually been picked up (They probably would have), that was not the issue. She did it because she thought it would OFFEND customers! OFFEND WHO!!!!Frankly, if you are living in this country, and you are OFFENDED by the sight of one big or many small American Flags…..then get the F**k OUT OF THIS COUNTRY!!!! And Don’t come back!!
Thirdly, no one was asking OR telling BOA (specifically that branch) to Permanantly display that or any flag! Even if they had been left in the ground and not picked up after the event for which they were put there, NO ONE would be raising hell about someone from the bank removing them! It was merely the fact that they could not even allow them to be displayed there for a young AMERRICAN Marine, who chose help defend his country and to fight for something he believed in!!
Fourthly, it is a shame that you have never had the opportunity to put YOUR LIFE on the line for the Country you live in and who provides you with SO MANY FREEDOMS, especially the one you just used to express your thoughts and feelings (even if they are wrong and skewed)!! I find it funny that you can talk a lot of TRASH, but can’t leave your name!!
Rest in Peace to all my fallen Brothers-In-Arms, you are the true heroes!
Semper Fidelis Marines
Ryan D. Cantrell
Staff Sergeant / USMC
POST 374.
You feel strongly in your convictions apparently, but not strong enough to post your name. Also, you claim to have a business, if you feel so strongly about this issue and feel that your are completely correct,then post your business name. Stand up for what you feel is right. be proud and let all your friends, family and customers know your point of view. Ididn’t think so…..coward.
I have been a BofA customer for the last 3 years, since moving to Fl. BofA employees have always been helpful and we have been happy with their services. The story of the removal of the flags in S.C. was very upsetting. I have been questioning the action of the bank manager and I’m sure it was a company policy she was following. Shame on me, I had not noticied my particular bank. I went out early this morning to check if there was a flagpole at my branch. Indeed there was but there was no flag. I called and was told that there had been no flag for at least 18 months. The bank was now acquiring a flag and repairing their rope. Evidently there has been a change in policy.
Thank you to all who have served.
i’ll be riding with the rolling thunder tomorrow to gaffney. i’m a veteran and proud f it! yes fred, we have free speech here in america because of folks like the lance corporal we’re riding for. i’ll bet you’ve never served in the armed forces have you p*ss?
thank you to all my brothers and sisters that have served!
It’s sad the town of Gaffney seems more worried about changing banks and little Chinese made flags than it does about the servicemembers still over there fighting for the freedoms of whichever iraqi’s best kiss our assumptions.
Rolling Thunder Rides Tomorrow! Oct 3! Starting at Quantico – heading South! Bikes and Cars welcome!
Thanks Palmetto Scoop and FOX for getting the word out about this flap! None of the other media outlets would .
http://www.foxnews.com/search-results/m/26686951/flag-flap-follow-up.htm#q=%22bank+america%22
Ooh Rah!
PROUD Mom of an Active Duty Marine Scout Sniper
PROUD Daughter of an Army Vietnam & Korean War Vet
PROUD Sister of an Army Gulf War Vet
PROUD Niece of an Air Force Vietnam Vet
PROUD Daughter-in-Law of a WWII Army Airborne Decorated Hero
PROUD Grand-Niece of a WWI Army Decorated Hero
PROUD Grand-Niece of a WWI Marine Fallen Hero
(and I am sure there are more)
AND…. PROUD to be a FORMER Customer of Bank America !!!!!!!! Pulled out my account! So did all of those mentioned above that are still living!
Well for starters you cant judge a company of 250,000 employees by the actions of one dumb employee. Why that manager thought that we will never know.
But just so everyone knows, you would be amazed at behind the scenes how many credit unions and small local banks use our services everyday and you, the customer of these credit unions and banks dont even know it. We service card portfolios for them as well as many other services. So just keep that in mind.
The smoke will clear……….
Brandy Tate. The next time you remove American Flags from Bank of America, we will deport you back to Africa. Along with all your Anti American followers.
I am a former BofA employee and am outraged that she would “bend” to the request of a customer who might be offended by OUR AMERICAN FLAG. Young men and women are dying for OUR country every day. The “official” corporate apology is pathetic. Ken Lewis made the right decision to step down. His firing of the premier bankers who had been there for decades after the Merrill Lynch fiasco to make the “bottom line” look better for the quarter was disgusting.
I know for sure now that I made the right decision to leave the firm.
I hope the bank makes that decision for her as well.
Actually Roger I did just so I could protect free speech for extremist whack jobs like yourself who’s only recourse is to question one’s patriotism if they don’t follow your right wing nutty views………Have a good ride…..
People are so quick to defend free speech, but only when it’s speech with which they agree. And people are so willing to disregard private property rights by going on business property and planting flags without permission, but that same person would be the first to cry socialism and foam at the mouth should their rights be infringed upon. You people cherry-pick your causes and their selective enforcement when it suits your personal desires. Contrary to what the Freeper trolls and posers here would have you believe, this isn’t about people hating America or our veterans or our flag – even if BofA did, you don’t have a right to put flags, signs, lawn gnomes, etc. on their property without their permission. Period.
To BOA Employee – Thanks for the heads up -but we know that you people are pervasive – like cancer – and that it will take awhile to sniff you out and get rid of you in all areas. It would have been a lot easier of BOA has simply fired the embarrasment of your company, as that would have resolved this. But because BOA continues to support someone that does this – it say “WE ENDORSE WHAT THIS PERSON DID”. Words are cheap – action is what counts.
I KNOW for a fact BOA has no American Flag in Mauldin, SC. (not unless they put one up since this has happened) Has Anyone looked at thier local bank lately??? Is there a FLAG????
I was driving through Greenville this morning, and seen them all over FIRST CITIZENS lawn!
I dont think the policy was misunderstood. I believe this does reflect the POLICY. If I was the Manager I would have printed the POLICY out, and posted to all media while leaving these beautiful flags outside the bank to honor our fallen hero! We all make decisions!
I will not ever bank at BOA! I think (not for sure) its not even American owned. Well take that back Gov. owns a portion now!
Did the major networks cover this story? If so, I missed it. If they chose not to cover it, was it concern that mass closings of accounts at BOA would be harmful?? Or could there be a hidden agenda by keeping the story quiet? Did NBC, ABC, or CBS report on this?
Read/look at this article! By golly, true Americans responded in kind to show this unpatriotic woman what it means to honor a fallen hero!!!!!!!!!! You can always count on Rolling Thunder and the Patriot Guard Riders to right the wrongs and injustices! Thanks to all who joined in. GOD BLESS AMERICA!
http://www2.wspa.com/spa/news/local/article/200_veteran_bikers_honor_fallen_marine/27686/#
WHO would have been upset? Some illegal alien?!? Who cares!! Maybe if we upset enough of them they will GO HOME!!! All they are doing is sucking our economy dry using up all of our Medicare, Welfare and any other free program our gov’t is handing out…
Brandy Tate is the name of the of the communist that took the flag down. She does not have the right to breath the same air as Americas Heroes. I say put her on the front line and let her defend our GREAT COUNTRY!!! I give BOA 6 months before it goes under and you can Thank Brandy for that. Brandy’s superiors needs to fire her publicly so AMERICA can see. God Bless You Brandy because your life is going to be miserable for a long time but more so, “GOD BLESS AMERICA!!! You do not have the right to call yourself an American!!! May God Bless Our Troops and may He be with the family of this young man that gave his life for all of us including this piece of VERMIN like Brandy. GOD BLESS AMERICA
10-05-09 at 1pm….press conference in Gaffney!!!! Everybody with ?’s, comments, and concern please join us at Ingles on Floyd Baker Blvd in Gaffney tomo. 10-05-09 at 1pm for a press conference. Let’s here Brandys side = the truth. Maybe we can get all these people on here a little more educated and see what “policy” really did say, and see thar she was doing her job! Please come! Don’t keep posting your name to uneducated opinions!
#69 South Carolinas Finest….if your so close to the situation please post your name with you knowledge and please join us today @ 1pm! Make sure you say hey since you know me and Brandy (my friend)!
Brooke, let me make something real clear, I would have been there today HOWEVER I knew that Brandy’s Attorney would be answering all the questions NOT HER. Folks in Gaffney don’t want to hear from someone ELSE. IN fact they don’t want to hear from Brandy. Because most people know that what ever comes from her mouth is going to be prefabricated and bullshit. And it would not be a good idea for me to be there because the first time YOU popped off at the mouth there would have sure enough been some controversy. You don’t need to worry about me BROOKE(lol), i’m the least of your problems. Theres about half a million other’s that should concern you. I hope every time you look at a soldier, flag, monument you think of the decision that was made on that faithfull day. Brandy you are manager of a small town bank, NOT the leader of the free world, CEO, or someone of the same. Bossing people, pointing fingers, and telling other’s what to do IS NOT LEADING. You need to be a LEADER instead of someone running around with a chip on your shoulder. I sure hope that the NEXT time BRANDY’s runs outside to boss someone around she will think twice. Knowing Brandy, nothing will change she will be in the news again REAL soon.
Again, she followed procedure. Sounds like you were bitter at Brandy before all of this, but now you get the chance to give an opinion and lash out at her. You seem concerned about posting your name for whatever reason, don’t be ashamed of who you are and how you feel. She is my friend and was not in the wrong. There was a flag policy! She didn’t know what the flags were for! No she didn’t ask, and no Brenda Earls didn’t tell her when she told her she would have to get permission to put out the flags. And honestly none of us were out there to hear the conversation between the 2. I know Brandy and had she have known what the flags were for it wouldn’t have ever been and issue and gotten to this point! But I think you said video and audio don’t lie, well let’s see it!
I just make a copy and paste from R & C’s comment in Michigan to show an unwavering support from the State of New Jersey, we back you and are outraged too, sad and mad as hell. There is no excuse for removing the flags. Thanks for the info that MBNA is B of A. We will never do business with either bank. My recommendation is that she who removed the flags and the branch manager who gave her the order should have punished and fired immediately once and for all !!!!
I do agree with all of you. She was very disrepectful and shame on her by doing what she did. The American Flag represents our country like a mother to her children. It should be loved, honored the way we do with our birth mother. BE PROUD OF IT.
However, I do not approve that the American flag should be wear as a dress, A baseball cap, etc. It should be always on display on a flag pole, THAT’S WHERE IT BELONGS, not on your body or car, etc. It is not a statement of fashion nor an accesory.
By the way we should all boycott the bank and close our accounts.
Why would either be fired? It was policy! All these outraged comments should be directed to a much higher level than branch/regional managers. Employees of B of A are expected to follow policy, not write them! Let’s try to focus on who “wrote the orginial policy” and direct it all the anger toward that person!
Brooke,
Coming to your friend Brandy’s aid is a nice concept but I’m afraid she was wrong Brooke. She is a human being first…bank manager second. Everyone knows that in today’s world human decency and good customer service is a thing of the past. It’s rare that you can even find it. You have to admit that your friend could have handled this so differently. Why not extend a hug or a handshake or a SINCERE “I’m Sorry” to the person who put up the flags. Instead she spoke in her little managorial tone and came off as insincere, crass and nasty.
I am the mother of an American Soldier. My son is deploying in less then two weeks. He came on leave this past weekend to say our “see you laters.” He flew out on American Airlines…when the flight attendants saw my son in uniform they grabbed by boy and put him in first class! She kissed him on the check and thanked him for his service. They fed him and took very good care of him. I have NEVER been a fan of American Airlines before but have now changed my mind. Do you see what a little gesture can do for someones moral?
This flight attendant did not have to do this. My son has flown many times in uniform but AA was the only aircraft to extend a hug, kiss, acknowledgement and a meal. It made my son’s day!
Brandy could have extended her hand and told her very kindly about “company policy.” Her actions have turned an already awful situation into where we are today. We are human beings first and everything else is second or last.
I understand you defending your friend (I probably would do the same) but have to admit she didn’t handle this very well. She is lacking some much need compassion. She may need it someday…My prayers go out to this fallen soldier and his family. God Bless America and God Bless the United States! I am even offering prayers to Brandy. She is lacking something. I hope this makes her a better person.
Ooops…meant to say God Bless his Family and God Bless America!
Brooke, You can save the “don’t be ashame” speech for someone else, that might work on someone with the brain capaity of you and BRANDY. But insults are not the intent of my reply. Brook I never said ” I” had video and audio Evidence, NEVER not once. I’m not gonna repeat myself, you can go back and read it. Brooke, you can post YOUR name all over internet but don’t ask me to. You stick with Brooke and I’ll stick with “finest”. I was not NOR have never been bitter with BRANDY, NEVER. She doesn’t dictate my life like she does other’s, so I don’t have to deal with her. Let me make this Clear BROOKE. Yesterday when a CIVIL RIGHTS attorney showed up in GAFFNEY S.C. Via Californina. Everyone sort of shook there head. People knew what was coming, people knew the card she was gonna play. AND DAMN IF SHE HASN’T PLAYED IT. You see one of the day’s Brandy is gonna have to stay up for HER MISTAKES, and take responsibility for her OWN actions instead of pushing the color of her skin in everyone face. What civil right has been violated in the incident, tell me……..NONE.. Why do you need a CIVIL RIGHTS attorney…….Only one reason, there will be one day she won’t be able to hollar “IM BLACK” and everyone turn the other check. I sure hope this will be one of those time.
O and BTW, why don’t you have BRANDY to do a Q and A segment on this SITE. Hey there ya go, that way you can quit speaking for her. After all your not BRANDY……..
REPLY to 410 HECTOR….Hector, there is a section of EVERY road that is called the STATE RIGHT OF WAY, is usally 25 to 30 feet from the CENTER YELLOW LINE.. What this means is that from 25 to 30 feet from the center of every road is the STATES not BOA, BRANDY TATE’S or your’s. These flags were placed on the states right of way NOT boa’s property. HOWEVER lets just say for the sake of argument that she did put them on BOA property, what DUMB ASS would pull them up…….O I guess if your last name is MENDEDEZ you might want another flag flying…..
[...] woman at the center of a national controversy over the removal of American flags lining the funeral procession of a fallen Gaffney Marine is [...]
SC Finest: Thankfully through process of elimination, your identity has been revealed. Futhermore, I think this should be a learning experience for you that manipulation will get you NO where! You couldn’t be there due to being on vacation. But maybe you should have been at home spicing up your resume!
Don’t support Bank of unAmerica ,don’t do business with Bank of unamerica. don’t use the Bank of unameica ATm cancel your account with B of A . open account with American Banks. NO Americans should use unamerican, subversive,. Indicit all the morons from Acorn. they are the subverise group used to overtrhrow the American government and steal send money for Arican Liberation communists.Black panters,Black liberation causes.
Brooke, Brooke, Brooke….lol, I don’t have the foggest who your refering to. Guess they may be another person out there that’s aware of your of your closest WHICH IS FULL. Let’s stop trying to figure out who I am and WHAT I know and start doing something constructive(instead of spywork) like fixing the problem which YOU have started. Common sence goes a long, long way. Let’s just say your company DOES have policy. Useing COMMON SENCE why putting those policys to practice IS A MUST. Like looking the other way when a tax paying person of a small community places a very small flag beside your propery. You look the other way and ask her to remove the flags in a timely manner after the funneral. What corparate exuctive is gonna come walking in asking why there are American Flags out in front of the bank. NONE….But don’t fear nobody is gonna be fired or even talked to because THE CARD is already being played. BIG SURPISED, however one of these days your gonna be ALL OUT OF CARDS….
I don’t know that I’d call it spywork! I do know 3 things about you for sure. a. You work for B of A on the teller line. b. You have been poorly educated by the usage of your grammar and spelling! c. You are scared, if you wasn’t you would tell your name, or come out from behind that computer screen tell Brandy everything you’ve said about her to her face! But we all know that will not happen!
WOW! I served 6.5 years in the Coast Guard. I love this country. My son served in the Army and went to Iraq. My brother served in the Army, my Uncle served in the Navy. I can’t believe anyone who lives in this country would care about offending someone because of our flag. FLY IT. Fly our flag with PRIDE!!! Bank of America should make restitution by painting the American Flag on her branch. She should recieve a written warning for being a poor example to her staff. Is she even American? What American is concerned over someone else being offended by OUR flag!!!! I am outraged.
Brooke I guess when you say “if you wasn’t” in a sentence that sounds and appears grammatically correct because you is a hillbilly? OMG the south is a scary place…….
Acorn planted these anti*american subversives in Bank of America . phony “Bank Manager” Bank of America has these phony affirmative action managers because their negroes. Negroes voted to free O.J. Simpson after he murdered to white people. Now their trying to subvert the american system. We don;t let Acorn people and Obama tell us where we can put the American flag. We will put american flags in front every Bank of america .We will change it to Bank of Africa.
I hope all of you that said you were going to close those accounts at BoA really do it. Now your honor is on the line for the marines and soldiers who proudly serve this country.
Semper Fi
Retired Soldier of 21 years and Father of a Marine in Afgahn
Bank Of America…..What the hell are you doing?
[...] Story via The Palmetto Scoop: A South Carolina Bank of America branch is drawing criticism Thursday after an employee reportedly [...]
Bank of America has had problems in the past with their policies RE: illegal immigration. Seems every time I’m in a BOA Banking Center the lobby is full of, mostly, Hispanics. NTTAWWT, only if that’s the direction BOA wants to face, it’s best that everyone knows of it.
Good for The Scoop for publishing this BUT WHY ISN’T THE JERK OF AN EMPLOYEE WHO DID IT NOT NAMED?
There is a new manager. No comment on whether the old manager is still an employee of BofA.
The old manager who performed this offensive act is named
Brandi Tate.
I’m guessing Brooke’s real name is Brandy, as in Brandy Tate.
I’m currently serving in Iraq and I’m closing my account after 12 years as soon as I get back. I was already pissed that they were one of the biggest recipients of the bank bailout money but this seals the deal. Most important, our prayers are with the Fowlkes family.
Bank of America(?). It doesn’t surprise me that BofA is offended by the US Flag. Much of their IT work is being outsourced to India: http://www.realestatezing.com/banks-in-usa/bank-of-america/india-hyderabad.html
If I’m not mistaken I think the BofA was one of the banks that decided to use US taxpayer’s bailout money to fund off-shoring/outsourcing projects to move even more US jobs to India.
Acorns plan is to overthrow the UNITED STATESS OF AMERICA , they conspisred with bank of america to have all their homeless and convicted felons to get illegal mortgages they never qualified for.then they tried to bankrupt the United States. they planned to have the African liberation arimy take over their negro cities,detroit ,atlanta, Phily, lost Angles. etc. they also had illgegal aliens voting for obama ,low lifes from mexico.were paid to find phony social security cards . to register. RISE UP AND STOP ACORN ,STOP ALL ‘LIBERAL MEDIA. DON;T VOTE FOR LIBERAL DEMOCRATES.
SOUTH CAROLINA’S FINEST…
Brooke may well be a “friend” of Brandy but she might be an employee of B of A also or know others.
In all the banter back and forth you missed the big question for Brooke…..
I would really like to see a copy of B of A’s much referred to Policy or at the very least
the pertainate section covering event displays. Oh and not the current edited version an older version will do fine. A Peer to Peer Torrent file tracked by Mininova would be the way to publish the document in relative safety. (Are you reading this B of A?)
So Brooke ????????
Oops… forgot… I’m dropping the current politically correct terminology… “illegal immigrant” and going back to… “illegal aliens” … remember?? (see how suttle changes politicians make work over over time)
The fact that BofA hires morons and cretins as “branch managers” and gives them less authority than the janitor has is common knowledge among anyone who banks there. I swear the screen their applicants for that position and if they have an IQ higher than 90, they don’t hire them. Under 90, they can teach them what to do, say, and to be obedient to a policy and procedure manual they can’t possibly read, anyway. Remember they’re functionally illiterate at that IQ level (or the lack of it.)
This time they’ve gone too far. First off, fire the cretin of a “manager” and secondly publicly and abjectly apologize for the incredibly stupid decision made by this idiot. Lastly, raise your standards for branch managers to at least those of a high grade functioning moron. Cretin is too low to be allowed public contact safely – in case you haven’t noticed!
There is nothing American about Bank of America. I want them. to Change the name of the Bank , Bank of India, Bank of Africa. Bank of Mexico. any of these names .Please vote to have B of A ,THEY HAVE CANCELLED THEIR RIGHT TO USE THE AMERICA IN THEIR LOGO. BRANDY TATE PROBABLY HAS AN AFRICAN NAME FOR THE LOW LIFE BANK
For all those who have canceled accounts or are considering closing their accounts… It does matter to B of A… at present B of A has $30 of at risk financial transactions for every $1 of assets ( your account balance } so even $500 savings account = $15000 backing so if their asset level drops so does their stock and the price they can get for the sale of their financial vehicles. OOOUCH !!!
Excellent strategy dopes…..drive more business out and instead of 11.6% unemployment in your backwards state you can shoot for 12% or more!
Back up Fox News. The Liberal communists and Black anti American followers ,The Obama White house is trying to silence white America. The elections are coming up. do you want your White children beat up on the Bus by Negroes and other low lifes. Look what happened in California High School “homecoming dance” American girll was raped by illegal aliens.
[...] Bank of America in hot water over SC flag flap [...]
Americans will from this day on ,take back the white house ,politically ,we have the numbers. All illegal aliens and other low lifes take notice. We will vote in the next election. We will bring our decent Ameican candidates to office ,You can not stop us. All you filthy illegal acorn people will be thrown in jail. along with your phony Rev. Wright. Rev . Farakan. and other anti American negroes. take notice. Be Afraid
(My letter to BoA)
On September 22nd of this year, a BoA branch in South Carolina refused to place flags on the property for a fallen Marine. As a corpsman that works along side Marines on a day by day basis, I am extremely disappointed. You call your business Bank of AMERICA and use the American flag as a logo, icon and statement. You service Americans but yet, with this act, you show you do not support those that protect your ability to be an American and keep our lands safe.
When I heard this story, I could not believe I have an account with such a hateful, cold-hearted, inconsiderate, immature and ridiculous bank. With that said, I have opened the same type of account with my local bank and will be moving my BoA account to their services. They are a very strong supporter of the United States military and would never act with such disrespect.
Please do not attempt to justify these actions for there is not justification for not supporting those who serve when you use OUR flag as your icon.
With much disappointment,
A R Hepps
aaron.hepps@usmc.mil
I am a former BOA employee ( in another state) and I am not shocked by what BOA has done, it is the ” policy of the bank” just like it is the policy of the bank to remove the christmas decorations, so not only will they display the flag they will not display a christmas tree ” in fear of upsetting customers” I would like to know when did banking become so cold hearted ?
I have been following this since day one and enjoying to watch the fall of this “Fat Cat”. Now I see where BofA is having a hard time filling the vacancy of their CEO. They should offer the job to Brandy Tate, she would fit right in.
I just refinanced my home with another lending institution and will never do business with BOA. They had the nerve to send me a survey and I let them know exactly how I fee!!!!. God Bless America and our AMERICAN FLAG!!!! If it were not for our US Military I don’t know where we would be or what language we would be speaking. I thank God every day that I liVe in THE LAND OF THE FREE AND THE HOME OF THE BRAVE!!!!! aMEN!!!
[...] Bank of America in hot water over SC flag flap (Sept. 17) — This was one of the most saddening stories I had to write about all year. Marine [...]
Hey please dont tell me that you served in the military for me. You served by choice and you know the risk. The military is by choice as of today! You serving our country is good but dont tell me you did it for me. You did it because it gave you benefits. I’m using the word “benefit” loosely, benefits like your pride, ego, pay, medical, gi bill…so if you did it for me dont get paid or take the benefits…You are being paid for your services!!!
I believe the bank manager made a poor decision…but the banking industry is very regulated and has many policies…. I’m guessing she got a few complaints and the manager just tried to take them down so she didn’t have to take any heat from customer…remember sometime we get complains over things we have no control over…so I kind of understand were she is coming from….but you alwasy want to get a second opinion before you take such a step in the community activities..
Hey Al, 1/5/10. You sound like one of the scum that ran to Canada during Nam. There is more than “Pay” involved for most that are in the defense of this Country and your freedom. Here is somthing you might chew on for awhile before you go somewhere that you will have to defend your own shelfish butt.
The Sack Lunches
I put my carry-on in the luggage compartment and sat down in my assigned
seat. It was going to be a long flight. ‘I’m glad I have a good book to
read. Perhaps I will get a short nap,’ I thought. Just before take-off, a
line of soldiers came down the aisle and filled all the vacant seats,
totally surrounding me. I decided to start a conversation.
‘Where are you headed?’ I asked the soldier seated nearest to me.
‘Petawawa’ we’ll be there for two weeks for special training, and then we’re
being deployed to Afghanistan.
After flying for about an hour, an announcement was made that sack lunches
were available for five dollars. It would be several hours before we reached
the east, and I quickly decided a lunch would help pass the time…
As I reached for my wallet, I overheard a soldier ask his buddy if he
planned to buy lunch. ‘No, that seems like a lot of money for just a sack
lunch. Probably wouldn’t be worth five bucks. I’ll wait till we get to
base.’
His friend agreed.
I looked around at the other soldiers. None were buying lunch I walked to
the back of the plane and handed the flight attendant a fifty dollar bill.
‘Take a lunch to all those soldiers.’ She grabbed my arm and squeezed
tightly. Her eyes wet with tears, she thanked me. ‘My son was a soldier in
Iraq, it’s almost like you are doing it for him.’
Picking up ten sacks, she headed up the aisle to where the soldiers were
seated.. She stopped at my seat and asked, ‘Which do you like best – beef or
chicken?’ ‘Chicken,’ I replied, wondering why she asked. She turned and went
to the front of plane, returning a minute later with a dinner plate from
first class.
‘This is your thanks.’
After we finished eating, I went again to the back of the plane, heading for
the rest room. A man stopped me. ‘I saw what you did. I want to be part of
it. Here, take this.’ He handed me twenty-five dollars.
Soon after I returned to my seat, I saw the Flight Captain coming down the
aisle, looking at the aisle numbers as he walked, I hoped he was not looking
for me, but noticed he was looking at the numbers only on my side of the
plane. When he got to my row he stopped, smiled, held out his hand and said,
‘I want to shake your hand.’ Quickly unfastening my seat belt I stood and
took the Captain’s hand. With a booming voice he said, ‘I was a soldier and
I was a military pilot. Once, someone bought me a lunch. It was an act of
kindness I never forgot.’ I was embarrassed when applause was heard from all
of the passengers.
Later I walked to the front of the plane so I could stretch my legs. A man
who was seated about six rows in front of me reached out his hand, wanting
to shake mine. He left another twenty-five dollars in my palm.
When we landed I gathered my belongings and started to deplane. Waiting just
inside the airplane door was a man who stopped me, put something in my shirt
pocket, turned, and walked away without saying a word. Another twenty-five
dollars!
Upon entering the terminal, I saw the soldiers gathering for their trip to
the base. I walked over to them and handed them seventy-five dollars. ‘It
will take you some time to reach the base. It will be about time for a
sandwich. God Bless You.’
Ten young men left that flight feeling the love and respect of their fellow
travelers.
As I walked briskly to my car, I whispered a prayer for their safe return.
These soldiers were giving their all for our country. I could only give them
a couple of meals. It seemed so little.
A veteran is someone who, at one point in his life, wrote a blank check made
payable to ‘The United States of America’ for an amount of ‘up to and
including their life.’
That is Honor, and there are way too many people in this country who no
longer understand it.
May God give you the strength and courage to pass this along to everyone on
your email buddy list.
I JUST DID
Let us pray…
Prayer chain for our Military… Don’t break it!
Please send this on after a short prayer.
Prayer:
‘Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect
us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us
in our time of need.
It’s amazing the crap you ‘HONKIES’ POST on this page.Bottom line is Brandy Tate was following policy.Why didn’t anyone say anything about 1st Piedmont or Suntrust not flying the flag? We still live in a racist society and I see by the trash that is allowed to be posted on this page.Had Brandy Tate been a young,white girl their wouldn’t be any dam flag flap.But because she’s a young black woman,Brenda Earls got a smack in the face and so did the rest of you.You can say what you want but if she wasnt doing her job;you’d complain about that.She followed policy to a ‘T’.White people always want blame someone for something well it’s ‘yalls’ fault that yall made the dam policy.We know didn’t anyone black make it.And for that matter who’s to say it wasn’t gonna be a ‘KLAN RALLEY’that day?KKK loves to march with that red,white,and blue.Believe you me this ain’t over either.Yall ain’t seen nothing yet.You thought 9.15.09 was ‘emotional’just wait!Brandy Tate will get the glory out of this!You think you hate her now?Well you are really gonna hate her real soon and very soon…..Then see who’s laughing…….LMAO….
If you agree COlts are going to lose become a fan of FB page Colts Will Lose Super Bowl 2010!
I am both saddened and amazed by this incident. I lost my son several months ago so I know this mother’s pain. I am the wife of a disabled VET so I know the sacrifice. Yes Al they do get paid just like any other job but it is one of the lowest paid jobs. Believe me when I say it’s not an easy job. It takes a person with a great amount of dedication to put their lives on the line especially when they know there is someone like you ready to spit in their face. Why don’t you stop for one minute and think where we all would be if every brave soul in the armed forces finally had enough of the garbage they hear on a daily basis and just quit.
I am originally from a small town in South Carolina. To call me ignorant for being outraged shows your ignorance. It is beyond absurd a bank that not only has the word America in it’s title but also has an American flag as part of their logo would prohibit any and all American flags being flown. I don’t think race has anything to do with this but the race card is played way to often. As for “what if that soldier had been Italian”, whether he was of Italian decent or not he was “American” I am so sick of the term ( ) American. You are either American or not. As to the comments don’t hold BOA accountable for 1 employee, why not? Especially when that 1 employee was following protocol! Forgive, forget and move on is a big part of the road we are screaming down at a dangerous rate of speed. 1 by 1 our rights are being stripped or strapped and it’s being done by the few while the many sit silently by. If this continues you need not get offended by whether or not they fly the American flag. We are bending over backwards to cater to spanish language so we don’t offend anyone. China is taking over quietly through businesses like WalMart. Check to see who made the majority of the products they carry. BOA isn’t the only business that needs a wake up call.