Knowing When to Lower Your Flag: A Guide to Flag Etiquette

The American flag holds immense significance as a symbol of our nation’s values and freedoms. It is important to understand and follow proper flag etiquette to show respect for this emblem. In this article, we will explore key guidelines for displaying, saluting, and stowing or disposing of the flag.

Displaying the Flag

When displaying the flag, it is essential to adhere to certain guidelines to honor its importance:

The U.S. flag should be displayed 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 (Military.com).
When displayed in a row with other flags, the U.S. flag should be placed to the observer’s left. Flags of other nations should be flown at the same height, while state and local flags are traditionally flown lower (VFW).
On special days, such as Memorial Day, the flag may be flown at half-staff until noon and then raised (Military.com).
When the flag is displayed over the middle of the street, it should be suspended vertically with the union (blue field of stars) to the north in an east and west street or to the east in a north and south street (VFW).

Saluting the Flag

Proper etiquette for saluting the flag is as follows:

All persons present in uniform, including military, police, and fire personnel, should render the military salute. Members of the armed forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may also render the military salute (Military.com).
All other individuals should face the flag and stand at attention, placing their right hand over their heart. If applicable, they should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, with the hand over the heart (Military.com).

Stowing or Disposing of the Flag

When it comes to stowing or disposing of the flag, it is important to follow proper procedures:

The flag should be folded in the traditional triangle for stowage, avoiding wadding it up (Military.com).
When disposing of the flag, it should be burned in a dignified manner. It is crucial to ensure complete burning of the flag and to conform to local/state fire codes or ordinances (VFW).

By adhering to these guidelines, we demonstrate our reverence for the American flag and the principles it represents. Let us honor our nation’s symbol with the respect it deserves.

Sources:
– “Flag Etiquette and the U.S. Flag Code” – Military.com
– “Flag Etiquette – VFW” – VFW
– “United States Flag Code” – The American Legion

FAQs

When should the U.S. flag be displayed?

The U.S. flag should be displayed 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 U.S. flag be positioned when displayed with other flags?

When displayed in a row with other flags, the U.S. flag should be placed to the observer’s left. Flags of other nations should be flown at the same height, while state and local flags are traditionally flown lower.

Are there specific days when the flag should be flown at half-staff?

Yes, on special days like Memorial Day, the flag may be flown at half-staff until noon and then raised. Other occasions may also call for flying the flag at half-staff as a sign of mourning or respect.

How should individuals salute the flag?

All persons present in uniform, including military, police, and fire personnel, should render the military salute. Members of the armed forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may also render the military salute. All other individuals should face the flag and stand at attention, placing their right hand over their heart. If applicable, they should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, with the hand over the heart.

What is the proper way to stow or dispose of the flag?

The flag should be folded in the traditional triangle for stowage, avoiding wadding it up. When disposing of the flag, it should be burned in a dignified manner, ensuring complete burning and conforming to local/state fire codes or ordinances.

Can the flag be displayed over a street?

If the flag is displayed over the middle of the street, it should be suspended vertically with the union (blue field of stars) to the north in an east and west street or to the east in a north and south street.

Are there any specific rules for displaying the flag during parades or marching ceremonies?

When used during a marching ceremony or parade with other flags, the U.S. Flag should be positioned to the observer’s left.

What should I do if I see a worn or damaged flag?

If you notice a worn or damaged flag, it is recommended to replace it with a new flag. Many organizations, such as veterans’ groups, offer flag retirement ceremonies to properly dispose of worn-out flags.