Critique is better than yes men (and women). Big gap between critique vs hating. Love for one's country should necessarily include pointing out its faults imo, not keeping a blind eye.
Now the "critiques" folks will disagree ofc, doesn't change the motives. Demonizing others, as both sides are wont to do, does no good either. Listen to critique, understand they want what's best too, and if you disagree, then it is what it is. Doesn't mean the other person has hate because they a have different pov. Same as with all the kneeling...it wasn't anti-American or troops lol. And if people truly listened, I think that was clearly apparent.
Also unsure of the principle that by bashing them it will somehow give them a "reality check" or make them give up their principles.
Jmo