The Federal Flag Code (Public Law 34-344) contains detailed information regarding the display and respect of the United States flag, which is considered a living symbol. Many men and women, military and civilians, have risked their lives and livelihood to honor and protect the flag and the precepts for which it stands. Learn some of the most basic flag etiquette.
When Should the American Flag be Displayed?
The flag of the United States has traditionally only been publicly flown from sunrise to sunset. If flown at night, a light should illuminate it after dark. The flag should not be flown during inclement weather unless it is an all-weather flag and should be mended and/or cleaned as appropriate.
The American flag may be flown on any day, including, but not limited to:
- National holidays
- State holidays
- Special occasions
How Should the U.S. Flag be Displayed?
The American flag should be raised or hoisted on a flagpole:
- Sharply
- With the union (blue field) at the top, unless used as a distress signal
- With the union to the north on an east/west street
- With the union to the east on a north/south street
- To the top of the pole before lowering it, including when raising and lowering the flag to half-staff
- Carefully so as to prevent the flag from being damaged or soiled or from touching the ground, floor, water, or objects below it
If other flags, such as those of a state, community or scout troupe, are displayed on the same pole, the United States flag should fly freely at the top with the exception of a church pennant at sea during church services conducted by a Navy chaplain, in which case the church pennant may be flown higher than the American flag.
When displaying the U.S. flag with other flags as listed above on separate staffs,
- No other flags should be larger
- No other flags should be higher
- The U.S. flag should not be dipped
- The American flag should be raised first and lowered last
- The U.S. flag should be on its own right (on the left when viewed by an audience) or front and center
- The American flag staff should be in front if staffs are crossed for a display
If displaying the U.S. flag with flags of other nations during times of peace, all national flags should be about the same size and raised to the same height. They should all be lowered at the same time as well.
When lowering the American flag, it should be lowered:
- Ceremoniously and slower than the speed at which it was raised
- In such a way that it does not touch the ground or become soiled or defaced
- Ready to be folded per the flag code
Americans and others should stand at attention as the flag is raised or lowered or passes in a parade. Men who are not in uniform should remove their hats with their right hand. Men and women not in uniform should place their right hand over their heart while those in uniform should render the military salute.
A flag that is no longer fit for display should be taken out of service. Proper disposal is typically accomplished by burning it in a dignified manner.
United States Flag Etiquette
The American flag is rich in heritage and has been bravely protected by many people over the years. Proper display of the United States flag shows respect to the nation’s living symbol and also to those who have fought to protect the nation and what the flag represents.
Readers may also wish to read:
Why is the American Flag Called "Old Glory?"
Memorial Day – Basic Facts, History, and a Brief Timeline
Veterans Day – Basic Facts and Information
George Washington's Birthday (President's Day)
Source:
United States Department of Veterans Affairs online article entitled “The American Flag”
Katrena Wells - Katrena Wells is a RN in NC with 17 1/2 years of experience in oncology, an educator since 1995, and has taught exercise classes since ...
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