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How To Properly Display The American Flag
July 4, 2017
This Fourth of July all across the country, people will show their love for America by displaying flags along streets, hanging them from porches, and proudly carrying them in parades and festivals. Old Glory will be everywhere. But did you know there are official rules on properly displaying the U.S. flag?
The infographic above (or click here to enlarge) and the information below based on Federal Flag Code can help you show respect for the flag as you celebrate America’s 241st birthday:
- When: You can display the flag outside from sunrise to sunset. If you want to fly it after dark, it will need to be lit. Don’t fly the flag during inclement weather, unless it’s an all-weather flag.
- On the porch: The union of the flag–the blue section with white stars–should be placed at the peak of the staff unless the flag is at half-staff. When the flag is suspended from a rope on a pole extending from a house, the flag should be hoisted out, union first, from the building.
- On the wall or the window: When the flag is displayed on a flat surface like a wall, the union should be at the top left.
- On the street: The flag should be suspended vertically with the union to the north in an east and west street or to the east in a north and south street. The flag should never touch anything beneath it, so make sure it’s hoisted at the proper height.
- At the office: Suspend the flag vertically with the union to the observer’s left upon entering. If the building has more than one main entrance, the flag should be suspended vertically near the center of the corridor or lobby with the union to the north when entrances are to the east and west, or to the east when entrances are to the north and south. If there are entrances in more than two directions, the union should be to the east.
- On a vehicle: The staff should be fixed firmly on the right side of the vehicle. Do not drape the flag over the hood, top, sides, or back of a vehicle or a boat.
- Half-staff: During periods of mourning, it’s common to see the flag flying at half-staff. Only presidents can proclaim such periods for a national remembrance. Governors can also declare mourning periods at a local level. In some cases, heads of federal agencies can order the flag flown at half-staff on grounds under their supervision. Traditionally, states and local governments follow the president’s proclamation during a period of national mourning.
Take care of your flag. Many dry cleaners will clean U.S. flags for free during the months of June and July. Store your flag in a well-ventilated area. If it gets wet, make sure it’s completely dry before storing it. If the flag is damaged or worn out, it should be burned and disposed of with dignity.
Comments
4 Responses to “How To Properly Display The American Flag”
Ceremony where flag is hand held in front of audience. Where should the union be as observed by the audience ? Thanks.
If I’m going to put my National Ensign and my Navy flag up on my porch with the typical porch style flag poles…. which one goes on the left and which one on the right looking from the street. I driven around my neighborhood and there is definitely some confusion. Thanks in advance for the info!!!
I think if you display the flag you should obey the rules above. It’s not that difficult to do so. Why blatantly display your ignorance in the name of patriotism?
REGARDING:
“But did you know there are official rules on properly displaying the U.S. flag?”
These rules apply with force to members of the Executive branch of the federal government and Washington, District of Columbia.
There is usually no reason for the rest of us to not go along with these rules, but please understand that they are voluntary signs of respect for our country rather than compelled by law.
David for America