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VERIFY: Pilot Flying J is repairing not removing American flags

The Knoxville-based company says it is removing flags at some gas stations where it can't be flown according to military protocol and repairing damaged flag doles at other locations.

You may have seen posts online asking why some Pilot Flying J gas stations are taking down their American flags.

One post from Amarillo, Texas said the Knoxville-based company is removing the flags because it is offensive to drivers from other countries.

To verify the claim, we reached out to representatives from Pilot Flying J.

Stephanie Myers, the company's supervisor of external communications, said the flag can only be displayed at Pilot locations if it can be flown according to military protocol.

According to the U.S. Flag Code, the flag must be "properly illuminated" when flown at night and taken down in inclement weather.

Myers said the company is currently repairing all damaged flag poles to make sure the flag is flown with respect.

She said Pilot is "dedicated to honoring our country and the flag" whether it is inside the store or outside on a pole.

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