Trace Adkins Defends Controversial Confederate Flag Earpiece

Country superstar Trace Adkins is defending that Confederate flag earpiece he wore at the nationally televised Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Rockefeller Center.

The earpiece ignited a firestorm on the internet by those who view the Confederate flag as a symbol of racism.

On his personal blog, Adkins now says: "As a proud American I object to oppression of any kind. To me, the battle flag represents remembrance of my Southern lineage. I am a descendant of Confederate soldiers who followed that flag into battle."

Adkins' posting is getting mixed reaction.

One person going by the Twitter handle, @Abraham_Lincoln, wrote on Twitter, "explain all you want, Trace Adkins. The Confederate flag represents heritage to you, but hate, racism, and treason to most Americans."

But others are coming to Adkins defense, pointing out that he is right now on USO tour in Japan.

One fan said, "Trace has done more for this Country then probably most of the people that are criticizing him."

In his statement Adkins said, "To those who view the flag as a symbol of racism, that was not my message and I did not intend offense."