USA goalie told to remove 'Support Our Troops' from helmet

I was just about to start watching Team USA hockey take on Switzerland at 3 p.m. eastern when I came across this insane story, which has left a bad taste in my mouth about the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. According to Reuters, Los Angeles Kings goaltender Jonathan Quick has offended the International Ice Hockey Federation and International Olympic Committee by painting a "Support Our Troops" tribute on his helmet. He has been told to remove it, because it somehow falls under the ridiculous banner of "political propaganda."

The Reuters report, which includes a picture of Quick's helmet, said starting goalie Ryan Miller and backup Tim Thomas had already agreed to cover up unrelated slogans on their helmets. But it is not yet clear if Quick, who did a noble thing by remembering those sacrificing their lives for our freedom, intends to cooperate.

Here is my message to the International Olympic Committee. Were it not for the actions of the U.S. military following the 9/11 attacks, it is quite possible that it would not be safe enough to hold a large, global gathering like the Olympics without a terrorist attack on the event. You may choose to view that as a "political statement," but many others view it as simple reality. Regardless, there is nothing political about a country supporting its Armed Forces. Instead of trying to censor a patriot like Jon Quick, you should be thanking him, and his country, for keeping you safe.

Now, it's time to watch Team USA begin its march to the gold medal.