DrGonzo, I believe that the case you are referring to is "West Virginia Board Of Education vs. Barnette." The Supreme Court handed down its decision of that case in June of 1943. Note some of the comments contained in the summary opinion of that case, as written by Chief Justice Lehman.....
"The salute of the flag is a gesture of love and respect--fine when there is real love and respect backing the gesture. The flag is dishonoured by a salute by a child in reluctant and terrified obedience to a command of secular authority which clashes with dictates of conscience. The salute of the flag is an expression of the homage of the soul. To force it upon one who has conscientious scruples against giving it, is petty tyranny unworthy of the spirit of this Republic and forbidden we think by the fundamental law."
