> Editor’s note: In a week that saw an NFL star dissing the national anthem, there’s a bit of good news out there too…

Students at Travelers Rest High School in South Carolina will once again be able to wave American flags at football games. Principal Lou Lavely reversed his ban on Old Glory just a few hours after we posted a column about the controversial decision.

The high school’s stadium is named after my great uncle — Chico Bolin, a decorated World War II Marine veteran. Uncle Chico restarted the football program at Travelers Rest in 1949 and named the team the Devildogs in honor of the Marines.

Following is the school district’s complete statement:

“[A]fter meeting with Travelers Rest student and faculty leadership, and with the benefit of time to reflect, Mr. Lavely has reached a different decision. He based this decision on current students’ request that he judge them on their own merits and not based on the actions of past students. As a result, effective immediately, students are allowed to bring the American Flag to any and all Travelers Rest High School events. Instead of restricting possession of the flag, the TRHS administration will, if needed, address the misuse of the Flag, or any other inappropriate behavior, on an individual basis.”

“I fully support Mr. Lavely’s thoughtful reconsideration, and his willingness to respond to advice and input from his community,” said Superintendent Burke Royster. “I am appreciative of the Travelers Rest High School community for sharing its concerns and opinions on this matter in a respectful, civil manner. I also appreciate and applaud their desire to promote patriotism and service as a part of the culture of their school and am in agreement that students’ desire to carry and display the American flag should be encouraged and supported throughout the District.”