It was probably intentional and I can see the effect you're going for, but my first impression is that it's just a little too overexposed. Nice composition
Its a good picture of a flag, dont know about the overexposure, its a very good effect when it works, and I think you almost got it, its not good effect when its too bright and hurt your eyes a little, mabey the colors ought to be a little softer too, nice job thiough and good luck :)
This image doesn't work for me... It is vastly overexposed, and builds on very subjective connotations of power. Also, I would point out that there is a difference between "power" and "strength". Power is a more generic term, while strength is a word describing physical attributes such as raw strength and longevity. (you are by no means the only one. Check out this thread: kamps.org/g/?vkmv) I think you picture describes "power", but not "strength", and hence falls outside of the challenge. Sorry. (2)
Europeans will not give you a good score, we don't trust in military power as much as USA do... but politics apart, the burst efect of light make this a very nice final shoot to me, having same white on sky and stripes make it simple and elegant. Nice work!