The Proper Way to Hang an American Flag
The American flag is a powerful symbol of our nation and its ideals. It is important to treat the flag with respect and to display it properly. There are specific rules and guidelines that govern how the flag should be hung, and it is important to follow these rules to ensure that the flag is displayed correctly.
General Guidelines
- The flag should be displayed from sunrise to sunset, weather permitting.
- The flag should be flown at half-staff on Memorial Day and other days of mourning.
- The flag should never be flown upside down, except as a distress signal.
- The flag should not be used as a tablecloth, bedspread, or other decorative item.
- The flag should not be flown in a torn or damaged condition.
Hanging the Flag Vertically
When hanging the flag vertically, the union (the blue field with the stars) should be at the top and to the observer’s left. The stripes should hang vertically, with the red stripes at the top and the white stripes at the bottom.
Hanging the Flag Horizontally
When hanging the flag horizontally, the union should be at the top and to the observer’s right. The stripes should hang horizontally, with the red stripes at the left and the white stripes at the right.
Displaying the Flag on a Pole
When displaying the flag on a pole, the pole should be at least 10 feet tall and should be made of a durable material, such as metal or wood. The flag should be attached to the pole with a halyard (a rope or cord). The halyard should be long enough to allow the flag to fly freely in the wind.
Folding the Flag
The flag should be folded in a triangular shape when it is not being displayed. To fold the flag, start by folding the bottom edge of the flag up to the top edge. Then, fold the left edge of the flag over to the right edge. Finally, fold the top edge of the flag down to meet the bottom edge. The folded flag should be stored in a clean, dry place.
FAQ
Q: What is the proper way to dispose of a worn-out flag?
A: The American flag should be disposed of in a respectful manner. One way to do this is to burn the flag in a dignified ceremony. Another option is to donate the flag to a local VFW or American Legion post.
Q: What is the difference between the American flag and the Confederate flag?
A: The American flag is the official flag of the United States of America. It consists of 13 red and white stripes and a blue field with 50 white stars. The Confederate flag is the flag of the Confederate States of America, which was a group of states that seceded from the Union during the American Civil War. The Confederate flag consists of a blue field with a white saltire (a cross) and 13 white stars.
Q: What is the proper way to display the flag on Memorial Day?
A: On Memorial Day, the flag should be flown at half-staff from sunrise to noon. At noon, the flag should be raised to the top of the staff.
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