Flag Etiquette

"The things that the flag stands for were created by the experiences of a great people. Everything that it stands for was written by their lives. The flag is the embodiment, not of sentiment, but of history."

Woodrow Wilson, June 14, 1915, Flag Day

Whether it be nylon, polyester or plain cotton, the American flag is more than fabric and thread. It represents each of us, our past, present and future. Great sacrifices and national pride are stitched into its stars and stripes, and it stands as a symbol of hope, opportunity and freedom.

The flag is not an inanimate object. It flies freely with a life force powerful enough to unite an entire nation.

Since every person has the right to own and display the American flag, it's important to treat it with respect. Representatives of 68 national organizations including the Army and Navy came together to create the United States Flag Code, which became public law about a year after the attack on Pearl Harbor. This code formalizes and unifies a set of instructions on handling, displaying and caring for the American Flag. It also indicates inappropriate use and disrespectful behavior. By following these rules, you are showing the flag and our nation your reverence and pride.

When and How to Fly the Flag

Although it is permitted to fly the American Flag any and every day of the year, it is recommended to fly the flag on certain holidays and special occasions. Most people associate the flag with patriotic days like Independence Day and Flag Day, but any holiday that is important to our country can be represented by the flag.

Dates:
New Year’s Day - January 1
Martin Luther King Day - 3rd Monday in January
Inauguration Day - January 20
Lincoln’s Birthday - February 12
Washington’s Birthday - 3rd Monday in February
Easter Sunday - Variable
Patriots' Day - 3rd Monday in April
Mother’s Day - 2nd Sunday in May
Peace Officers Memorial Day (half-staff) - May 19
Armed Forces Day - 3rd Saturday in May
Memorial Day (half-staff until noon) Last Monday in May
Flag Day - June 14
Father’s Day - 3rd Sunday in June
Independence Day – July 4
Korean War Veterans Day - July 27
Labor Day - 1st Monday in September
Patriot Day (half-staff) - September 11
Constitution Day - September 17
Gold Star Mother’s Day - Last Sunday in September
Columbus Day - 2nd Monday in October
Navy Day - October 27
Election Day - 1st Tuesday in November
Veteran’s Day - November 11
Thanksgiving Day - 4th Thursday in November
Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (half-staff) - December 7
Christmas Day - December 25
State Birthdays/Holidays
Other Days Proclaimed by the President of the United States

Hours

For a stationary flag displayed on a building, pole or staff, it is customary to fly it from sunrise to sunset. You are only permitted to display your flag at night if it is properly illuminated. This means that you must have a light dedicated to "spotlighting" your flag. A street light or well lit area will not provide enough light. With the right lighting, you can fly your flag 24 hours a day for as many days as you like.

Conditions

If you haven't invested in an all-weather flag, make sure you bring your flag indoors in weather conditions like rain, snow, sleet or hail. Even all-weather flags can be damaged by severe storms, causing them to become torn and tattered. A damaged flag is disrespectful to our nation, and will require repair or replacement.

The Flag Code describes the flag as a living thing, and it should be treated as such. With the proper care, your flag can last for a long time with little or no repair.

Location

According to the Flag Code, the American Flag should be flown:

--On or near every polling place on election days Voting is one of the most important rights we have as American people. It, like the flag, represents our freedom, and stands as a basis for our governmental structure. It is a requirement that the flag is flown on election days at polling places.

--On or near the main administration building of all public institutions

--On or near every schoolhouse (during school days) The flag is to be flown at public schools and colleges to instill a sense of patriotism in the students. These institutions are owned by the government and important to the nation. Although it is strongly suggested to fly the flag in these areas, it is not required.

Position

The flag should always be displayed upright with the union to the top left. Flying the flag with the union down is considered a "breach of etiquette" (Sharpman). However, it can be used as a call for help, similar to SOS, if you are in extreme danger and need assistance.

Throughout the years war protestors have flown the flag upside down to show that the entire country is in distress. It is still a debate whether this should be considered a desecration of the flag or an expression of free speech. It will usually attract negative attention from law enforcement and civilians alike.


Two Blonds & Co. carries flagpole eagles and other patriotic memorabilia and while doing research for July 4th festivities, we came across UNITED STATES FLAG STORE. Their site is most informative regarding the display of our flag, the history and the meaning of respective holidays and events. They offer many sizes of flagpoles, flags and bunting.