CA, Bikers Rally To Support Boy's Flag Display

OFF THE WIRE
DENAIR, Calif. -- A 13-year-old Stanislaus County boy at the center of a flag controversy got a big show of support Monday as many bikers rallied to his side.

Cody Alicea was earlier told by Denair Middle School officials that he could not ride onto campus with a U.S. flag on his bike. The story has gained international attention, from Rush Limbaugh to soldiers in Afghanistan.
The school changed its mind, and now Alicea can display the stars and stripes.
When he rode from his home to school on Monday, he was followed by a parade of people on motorcycles. The group said the Pledge of Allegiance upon arriving at school.
"It means a lot to me," a tearful Alicea said after arriving at school.

Officials at the school told Alicea not to display the flag, citing safety concerns. Some students had complained about the display.

Denair Unified School District Superintendent Edward Parraz said the campus recently experienced some racial tension. He said some students got out of hand on Cinco de Mayo. He said some students displayed the Mexican flag, while others displayed American flags.

Alicea said he was surprised at the attention.
"This is big," Alicea said. "I didn't think it'd get this big."