I didn't base it on any assumption, Mr. Hodges--I based it on Ditka's statement.  Or do you argue that he was misquoted?  As for worshiping symbols, most stand for the 'Star-Spangled Banner'.  I don't.  That's because of the following stanza (which is seldom included when it's sung nowadays):

"No refuge could hide the hireling or slave
From the terror of flight or the gloom of the grave
And the Star-Spangle Banner in Triumph doth wave
O're the land of the free and the home of the brave."

The first two lines threaten and vilify US slaves (Francis Scott Key owned at least seven) who fought for the British in return for the promise of manumission.  One such slave was among the founders of Sydney, Australia, and his statue stands near Sydney Harbor today (although they sculpted him to look as white as possible).

So, tell me Mr. Hodges--should slaves have loved their masters enough to turn down a promise of freedom?  What would you do?  And WHY should we revere that wretched song?