Knowing When to Lower Your Flag: A Guide to Flag Etiquette
The American flag holds a special place in the hearts of Americans as a symbol of freedom and unity. Displaying and honoring the flag correctly is an important way to show respect for the sacrifices made by those who have defended our nation. In this guide, we will explore the proper etiquette for displaying, saluting, and stowing or disposing of the flag.
Displaying the Flag
The United States flag should be displayed from sunrise to sunset on buildings and stationary flagstaffs in the open. If a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed 24-hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness. It is important to note that the flag should never be displayed in inclement weather unless it is an all-weather flag.
When displayed in a row with flags of other nations, the U.S. flag should be positioned to the observer’s left. Flags of other nations should be flown at the same height. State and local flags are traditionally flown lower than the U.S. flag.
On special days, such as Memorial Day, the flag may be flown at half-staff as a sign of respect for fallen heroes. On Memorial Day specifically, it is flown at half-staff until noon and then raised to full-staff.
When the flag is displayed over the middle of a street, it should be suspended vertically with the union, the blue field of stars, to the north in an east and west street or to the east in a north and south street. When displayed in a window, the union should be to the left of the observer in the street.
Saluting the Flag
Saluting the flag is a way to show respect and honor. All persons present in uniform, including military, police, and fire personnel, should render the military salute when the flag is raised, lowered, or passing in a parade. Members of the armed forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may also render the military salute.
For all other persons present, the proper etiquette is to face the flag, stand at attention, and place the right hand over the heart. If applicable, individuals may also choose to remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, with the hand over the heart.
Stowing or Disposing of the Flag
When the flag is no longer in use or is worn out, it should be stowed or disposed of properly. The flag should be folded in the traditional triangle shape, with care taken to ensure that it is not wadded up or mishandled.
When disposing of the flag, it should be burned in a dignified manner. It is important to ensure complete burning of the flag and to conform to local/state fire codes or ordinances. Organizations such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and American Legion can provide guidance and assistance in proper flag disposal.
By following these guidelines for displaying, saluting, and stowing or disposing of the flag, we can show our respect for the symbol of our nation and honor those who have served and sacrificed for our freedom.
Sources:
- Military.com. “Flag Etiquette – Do’s and Don’ts.” Link
- VFW.org. “Flag Etiquette.” Link
- American Legion. “United States Flag Code.” Link
FAQs
When should the American flag be flown?
The American flag should be flown from sunrise to sunset on buildings and stationary flagstaffs in the open. It can be displayed 24-hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.
How should the American flag be displayed in relation to other flags?
When displayed in a row with flags of other nations, the American flag should be positioned to the observer’s left. Flags of other nations should be flown at the same height. State and local flags are traditionally flown lower than the American flag.
Are there special days when the flag should be flown at half-staff?
Yes, on special days such as Memorial Day, the flag may be flown at half-staff as a sign of respect for fallen heroes. On Memorial Day specifically, it is flown at half-staff until noon and then raised to full-staff.
How should the flag be displayed when suspended over a street?
When the flag is displayed over the middle of a street, it should be suspended vertically with the union, the blue field of stars, to the north in an east and west street or to the east in a north and south street.
How should individuals salute the flag?
All persons present in uniform, including military, police, and fire personnel, should render the military salute when the flag is raised, lowered, or passing in a parade. All other individuals should face the flag, stand at attention, and place their right hand over their heart. If applicable, individuals may also choose to remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, with the hand over the heart.
How should the flag be stowed or disposed of?
When the flag is no longer in use or is worn out, it should be stowed or disposed of properly. The flag should be folded in the traditional triangle shape, with care taken to ensure that it is not wadded up or mishandled. When disposing of the flag, it should be burned in a dignified manner, conforming to local/state fire codes or ordinances.