Especially with Flag Day (June 14) and the Fourth of July just around the corner, let’s get ready to proudly fly our flags—after a quick review of basic flag etiquette.
Respecting Old Glory
Few people are aware that there is an actual government document that dictates the “proper” way to display our national flag. Dating back to Dec. 22, 1942, the U.S. Flag Code describes a wealth of proper flag manners.Veterans and active-duty military members are required to stand at attention and salute when the flag is being raised or lowered (not everyone knows that rule). Civilians are expected to place their right hand over their hearts as the flag is being hoisted. On Memorial Day, the flag is to be flown at half-staff to respect our fallen soldiers.
Fly It Proudly
The U.S. flag should be flown daily. It used to be that many schools would start the day with a flag-raising ceremony that was attended by the students and teachers. At the end of the school day, the flag would then be lowered, but without a ceremony.However, there are rules that must be adhered to. The flag is supposed to be flown from sunrise to sunset, but never during rainy, stormy weather; if it begins to rain, the flag must be taken down immediately. And it must never be allowed to touch the ground. The flag can be flown after dark, but only if it’s illuminated.
Mark the Date
While the flag can be flown every day the weather allows it, not everyone can do so. However, there are certain days when it should be flown, including national holidays such as Lincoln’s birthday (Feb. 12).Some of this summer’s must-fly dates are well-known, but a few may be unfamiliar. The dates include Memorial Day (the last Monday in May), when it’s flown at half-staff; Flag Day (June 14); Independence Day (July 4); National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day (July 27); and Labor Day (the first Monday in September).
Displayed but Not Flown
For those who, for any of a number of reasons, can’t fly a flag outdoors, indoor display may be an attractive option. But there are rules to follow.Whether it’s to be displayed horizontally or vertically, it must be flat against the wall so that it’s fully visible and looks as if it were being flown. The blue section should be to the observer’s left. When the flag is being displayed indoors in a classroom, meeting hall, auditorium, store, classroom, or any other public venue, it must be displayed prominently, in a place of honor.
Know When to Retire the Flag
While flying the flag every day is great, care must be taken to know when to retire it, such as if the edges become frayed or the colors fade. When a flag reaches such a condition that it’s no longer suitable to be flown or displayed, it needs to be destroyed.But rather than simply being thrown out with the trash, a flag must be destroyed in a dignified manner by those who are knowledgeable in the proper procedures. Most American Legion posts will accept retired flags that they will then destroy in an annual ceremony.
