Anti-Israel mob attacked American flag, UNC fraternity brothers defended it, hailed as 'beacon of hope'.

During the recent campus protests, a UNC-Chapel Hill fraternity captured the nation's attention with their patriotic act.

The group was honored at Fox Nation's 6th annual Patriot Awards.

Guillermo Estrada and Alex Jones were awarded the "Courage Award" at the Patriot Awards for standing up for the American flag amidst pro-Palestinian protesters who attempted to replace it with a Palestinian flag.

Estrada stated during the awards that when they saw their flag being torn down, they didn't hesitate because that flag symbolizes the hope that led their parents to this country 20 years ago.

"The flag symbolizes the promise of liberty and prosperity, making America a beacon of hope to the world."

In the spring, protesters against Israel replaced the American flag on Chapel Hill's quad, which had been flying at half-mast after four Charlotte officers were killed, with a Palestinian flag. UNC Chancellor Lee Roberts responded by having law enforcement officers return the American flag to its place.

A smaller group of students resisted activists, some of whom were not affiliated with the nation's first public university, as they tried to take down the university's statue for a second time.

"The Greek community sang the National anthem once the flag was raised again. However, when the chancellor left, the quad erupted into chaos as protestors removed the flag again, preparing to destroy it. Estrada shared on an X post earlier this year that his fraternity brother and others ran over to hold up the flag, preventing it from touching the ground. In response, people threw water bottles, rocks, and sticks at them, calling them profane names. They stood for an hour defending the flag that many fight to protect."

The fraternity brothers held up the fallen American flag after an hour of screaming, slurring, and flying objects. A GoFundMe was launched to throw a party for the fraternities involved, which raised over half a million dollars by the time donations closed.

Jones was inspired and humbled by the outreach of support from people across the nation at the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts.

My grandfather, a small farmtown boy from eastern North Carolina, never imagined that he would see his grandson on a stage like this. To me, this flag and this entire nation represent the dream that he never had. That's why I acted on that day.

Demonstrations against Israel and in support of Gaza took place at elite schools across the country, with activists setting up encampments, occupying buildings, clashing with law enforcement, and resisting arrest.

Estrada addressed Americans who are unsure about the significance of the flag during the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

He invited us to listen to what the red, white, and blue truly means to families like his from Goldsboro, North Carolina, and Alex's.

Alongside other distinguished honorees in nine categories, the UNC students were recognized.

In addition to the "T2T Stephen Siller Back the Blue Award," "Young Patriot," "Salute to Service," "FOX Weather Ultimate Patriot," "Service to Veterans," "Culture Warrior," "Bravery," and the honorary "Patriot of the Year," there are other awards.

The annual Fox Nation Patriot Awards is a night to bring people together in their love of America and recognize everyday heroes. To stay updated on patriotic content and future awards, sign up for Fox Nation today.

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