How To Fly The American Flag

Honoring the Stars and Stripes: A Comprehensive Guide to Displaying the American Flag

The American flag, an enduring icon of unity, patriotism, and liberty, holds a cherished place in the hearts of Americans. Whether it’s fluttering proudly atop government buildings, waving enthusiastically at parades, or adorning homes and businesses, the flag serves as a visible embodiment of the principles that have shaped the nation. Displaying the flag respectfully is a way to honor the sacrifices made by veterans and to express appreciation for the freedoms we enjoy. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the knowledge and protocols necessary to display the American flag with dignity and pride.

Etiquette for Displaying the American Flag

The flag’s display is governed by a set of time-honored etiquette guidelines, ensuring its appropriate presentation and minimizing the risk of disrespect. These guidelines are outlined in the U.S. Flag Code, a federal law that establishes the proper handling, display, and disposal of the flag.

1. Display the Flag at Half-Staff for Solemn Occasions:

• During periods of mourning or as a sign of respect for significant events, the flag should be lowered to half-staff. This involves raising it to the peak of the flagpole and then lowering it to a point halfway between the top and bottom.
• The flag should be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Memorial Day (unless otherwise directed by the President).
• It is also appropriate to fly the flag at half-staff for the death of a prominent government official, a fallen military member, or during national tragedies.

2. Raise the Flag at Sunrise and Lower it at Sunset:

• Display the flag between sunrise and sunset. If you are unable to do so, it is advisable to illuminate the flag at night.
• Do not display the flag in stormy or inclement weather.

3. Fly the Flag from a Properly Maintained Flagpole:

• The flagpole should be sturdy and of sufficient height to keep the flag above any surrounding objects.
• The flag should be flown from a halyard (rope or cord) that is long enough to reach the peak of the pole without straining the fabric.

4. Position the Flag at the Peak of the Flagpole:

• When the flag is flown alone, it should be at the peak of the flagpole.
• When multiple flags are flown together, the American flag should be flown in the highest position.

5. Display the Correct Size Flag for the Flagpole:

• The size of the flag should be proportionate to the height of the flagpole. For example, a 3′ x 5′ flag is appropriate for a flagpole that is 20′-30′ in height.

6. Fly the Flag with Respect:

• The flag should never touch the ground or be used as a tablecloth, drape, or garment.
• Do not write or draw on the flag.
• Do not fly a torn or damaged flag.

Proper Display of the American Flag on Buildings

1. Displaying the Flag on a Residence:

• The flag should be displayed from a flagpole attached to the front or side of the house.
• The flag should be flown at the peak of the pole and should not touch the house or any other object.
• If a flagpole is not available, the flag can be displayed from a window or balcony.

2. Displaying the Flag on a Commercial Building:

• The flag should be flown from a flagpole on the roof or from an appropriate location on the building’s façade.
• The flag should be visible from the street and should be flown at the peak of the pole.

3. Displaying the Flag on a Public Building:

• The flag should be flown from a flagpole in front of the building.
• The flag should be flown at the peak of the pole and should be visible from the street.

Displaying the American Flag on Vehicles

1. Displaying the Flag on a Car:

• The flag can be displayed on a car using a car flagpole mounted on the front or back of the vehicle.
• The flag should be flown at the peak of the pole and should not touch the car or any other object.

2. Displaying the Flag on a Boat:

• The flag can be displayed on a boat using a flagpole mounted on the stern (back) of the boat.
• The flag should be flown at the peak of the pole and should not touch the boat or any other object.

3. Displaying the Flag on a Motorcycle:

• The flag can be displayed on a motorcycle using a flagpole mounted on the front or back of the bike.
• The flag should be flown at the peak of the pole and should not touch the bike or any other object.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the proper way to fold the American flag?

• The flag should be folded into a triangular shape, with the blue field and white stars visible on the front.
• Instructions for folding the flag can be found on the U.S. Flag Code website: https://www.usflag.org/flag-customs-etiquette/folding-the-u-s-flag.html

2. What do I do with a worn or damaged American flag?

• Worn or damaged flags should be disposed of in a dignified and respectful manner.
• You can contact your local American Legion or Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) post for guidance on proper disposal methods.

3. Can I fly the American flag upside down?

• Displaying the flag upside down is a sign of distress or dire need. It should only be done in situations of extreme emergency.

4. Can I fly the American flag with other flags?

• Yes, the American flag can be flown with other flags, but it should always be flown in the highest position.
• If multiple flags are flown on the same pole, the American flag should be at the top, followed by other flags in order of precedence.

5. Is it disrespectful to wear American flag clothing?

• Wearing American flag clothing can be considered disrespectful if the clothing is not clean and in good condition.
• Avoid wearing American flag clothing that is torn or damaged.

Conclusion

Displaying the American flag is a solemn and meaningful act that conveys deep respect for our nation and its values. By adhering to the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can ensure that the flag is displayed with dignity and honor, serving as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served and the freedoms we hold dear. The Stars and Stripes, a testament to the resilience and spirit of the American people, deserves to be treated with the utmost respect. By flying it proudly and correctly, we not only pay homage to our nation’s heritage but also inspire future generations to embrace the ideals it represents.

References

• U.S. Flag Code
• [U.S. Flag Code