The sight of the American flag billowing in the breeze stirs feelings of freedom and of pride. Our flag represents continuity, something that we, as American citizens, can depend on. It represents what we stand for and who we are. To give the American flag the honor and respect it deserves, it should be displayed according to the current Federal flag code.
When flying the flag, it should never touch the ground or the floor. The flag should never be drawn back, but always allowed to fall free.
The flag can be flown every day from sunrise to sunset and at night if illuminated properly. The flag should never be flown in inclement weather except when it is made of all-weather material.
When the flag is displayed in a public place from a pole, it is always hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously. The flag of the United States of America should be at the center and at the highest point when a number of flags are grouped and displayed from staffs.
If the Stars and Stripes is displayed with another flag against a wall with crossed staffs, the American flag should be on the flag’s right (the viewers’ left).
When the flag is hung over a sidewalk on a rope extending from a building to a pole, the union stars are always away from the building. When vertically hung over the center of the street, the flag always has the union stars to the north in an east/west street, and to the east in a north/south street.
When the flag is used to cover a casket for display, the union stars are placed over the head and left shoulder. It is never lowered into the grave or allowed to touch the ground.
The flag should not be flown upside down except as a signal of distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property.
On Memorial Day, the flag should be displayed at half-staff until noon then raised to the top of the staff. When a person or group of distinction dies, it is also common practice to fly the flag at half-staff. The flag is first hoisted to the peak for an instant, then lowered.
When a flag becomes tattered and is no longer a fitting emblem for display, it should be disposed of in a dignified manner, preferably by burning.
Let’s show pride in our country and respect by displaying the American flag properly.
