Flag Etiquette

 

A list of guidelines for displaying and handling the American flag, as outlined by the United States Flag Code:

  1. As a symbol of our nation and its values, the American flag should be proudly displayed on all days, especially on national holidays, elections, and other special occasions.
  2. The flag should be displayed from sunrise to sunset, as a constant reminder of our country's enduring spirit and strength. If it is properly illuminated at night, it can be displayed at all times.
  3. When the flag is flown at half-staff due to a national tragedy or the death of a public figure, it is a sign of our nation's mourning and respect.
  4. When displayed with other flags, the American flag should be given a position of honor and respect, either at the top or on the right (the observer's left). When displayed with flags of other nations, the American flag should be at the center and at the highest point, as a symbol of our nation's pride and leadership.
  5. The flag should always be displayed with the union (blue field with white stars) at the top, to the left of an observer facing the flag. This represents the ideals of liberty, justice, and equality that our nation stands for.
  6. The flag should be treated with the utmost care and respect at all times. It should never be displayed if it is in tattered or dirty condition, and should be replaced with a new flag if necessary.
  7. The flag should never be used as clothing or bedding, or for any other purpose that could damage or deface it. It is a symbol of our nation's honor and dignity, and should be treated as such.
  8. The flag should be carried aloft and free, never flat or horizontally. This represents the proud and upright spirit of our nation.
  9. When the flag is lowered or folded, it should be done so with the utmost care and respect, as a sign of our nation's reverence and honor.

By following these guidelines, we can demonstrate our patriotism and respect for the American flag, and honor the values and ideals that it represents.


How To Fly The Flag Half Staff? 

Sectional Flagpole

  1. If the flag is flown on a sectional flagpole, the flag should first be elevated to peak position, flown there momentarily, and then lowered.

  2. The halyard (the rope used to raise and lower the flag) should be untied and the flag lowered to the half-staff position.

  3. At the end of the day, the flag should be elevated to the peak position again before lowering. 

Telescoping Flagpole

  1. If the flag is flown on a telescoping flagpole, the hook the flag with the carabiners to the second ring and last ring. This leaves the first ring( the highest ring) empty and the flag is set as half-staff position. 

It is important to handle the flag with care and respect at all times, especially when raising or lowering it to the half-staff position. The flag should be treated with dignity and reverence, as it is a symbol of our nation and its values.

 

 When to Fly the Flag Half Staff? 

According to the United States Flag Code, the President of the United States or the Governor of a state may order the flag to be flown at half-staff in their respective jurisdictions as a mark of respect for the memory of individuals who have died. This may include members of the military, government officials, and other public figures.

In addition to these official proclamations, the flag may also be flown at half-staff on certain designated days, such as:

  • Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15th)

  • Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (December 7th)

  • Patriot Day (September 11th)

It is important to follow the guidelines set forth in the Flag Code and any official proclamations when flying the flag at half-staff, as a sign of respect and reverence for those who have died and to honor the values and traditions of our nation.

Please note that these are the most common days for the flag to be flown at half-staff, but it is not an exhaustive list. The flag may be flown at half-staff in response to the death of a public figure or in the event of a national tragedy, as ordered by the President or Governor. It is important to stay informed about any official proclamations or announcements regarding the flying of the flag at half-staff.

How to Fold the American Flag? 

  1. Lay the flag on a flat surface, with the union (the blue field with white stars) facing up. As the symbol of our nation's unity and values, the union is the most important part of the flag.

  2. Hold the flag by the blue field with your left hand, and fold the flag in half lengthwise, bringing the bottom edge up to the top edge. This step represents the honor and respect we have for the flag and the values it represents.

  3. Hold the folded edge in your left hand, and fold the flag in half lengthwise again, bringing the bottom edge up to meet the top edge. This step represents the strength and resilience of our nation.

  4. Hold the flag by the folded edge with both hands, and fold the right corner over to form a triangle. This step represents the three branches of government and the ideals of liberty, justice, and equality.

  5. Continue folding the flag in a triangular pattern until the entire flag is folded into a triangle shape. As you fold the flag, take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices and contributions of all those who have served and protected our nation.

  6. When the flag is fully folded, the union should be visible, with the blue field on the outside. The flag should be folded in a neat and orderly manner, without any creases or wrinkles, as a sign of our nation's respect and dignity.

By following these instructions and focusing on the patriotic significance of each step, you can fold the American flag in a way that honors and respects the values and traditions of our nation. Remember to handle the flag with care and reverence at all times, as it is a symbol of our country and its proud history.

 

How to dispose a retired flag? 

Retired American flags should be disposed of in a dignified and respectful manner, as they are no longer fit for display due to wear and tear. Here are some guidelines for disposing of a retired flag:

  1. The flag should be folded in the traditional manner, with the union (the blue field with white stars) facing up and the flag folded into a triangle shape.

  2. The flag should be placed in a container or bag, such as a paper bag or cardboard box, to protect it during the disposal process.

  3. There are a few options for disposing of the flag, including:

  • Participating in a flag retirement ceremony, where the flag is ceremoniously burned in a respectful and dignified manner. These ceremonies are often conducted by veterans organizations or Scout troops.

  • Donating the flag to a museum or historical society, where it can be preserved as a part of our nation's history.

Places to donate your flag: