When the American Flag is Upside Down: A Guide to Proper Flag Etiquette
The American flag is a powerful symbol of national unity, pride, and patriotism. As such, it is essential to treat the flag with respect and honor, both when it is displayed and when it is retired. One of the most important rules of flag etiquette is to never fly the flag upside down, except in very specific circumstances.
When the Flag is Upside Down
The only time the American flag should be flown upside down is as a distress signal. When a vessel or aircraft is in distress, it may fly the flag upside down to indicate that it needs assistance. In this situation, the flag should be flown at the highest point of the vessel or aircraft.
Other Distinctive Displays
In addition to flying the flag upside down as a distress signal, there are a few other situations where the flag may be flown in a distinctive manner.
- Half-mast: The flag may be flown at half-mast to honor the death of a government official, a member of the military, or a prominent citizen. The flag should be lowered to half-mast immediately after the news of the death is received and should remain there until sunset on the day of the funeral.
- Furl: The flag may be furled (rolled up) and carried in a parade or procession. The furled flag should be carried on the right shoulder of the bearer and should be held in place by the left hand.
- Mourning: The flag may be draped over the casket of a deceased person. The flag should be placed over the casket with the union (blue field with stars) at the head of the casket.
Proper Flag Display
When the American flag is not being displayed as a distress signal or in one of the other distinctive ways described above, it should be displayed in the following manner:
- Height: The flag should be flown from a staff that is at least as tall as the length of the flag.
- Position: The flag should be flown at the peak of the staff.
- Orientation: The union (blue field with stars) should be at the top of the flag, and the stripes should hang down vertically.
- Lighting: The flag should be illuminated at night.
Folding the Flag
The American flag should be folded in a specific way when it is not being flown. The following steps should be followed:
- Hold the flag with the union at the top and the stripes hanging down.
- Fold the flag in half lengthwise, bringing the stripes together.
- Fold the flag in half again lengthwise, bringing the union to the top.
- Fold the flag in half again widthwise, bringing the left and right edges together.
- Fold the flag in half again widthwise, bringing the top and bottom edges together.
- Tuck the pointed end of the flag into the folded edge to secure it.
FAQ
Q: Why is it disrespectful to fly the American flag upside down?
A: Flying the American flag upside down is a distress signal. When the flag is flown upside down, it indicates that the vessel or aircraft is in need of assistance. Therefore, flying the flag upside down for any other reason is disrespectful.
Q: What should I do if I see the American flag being flown upside down?
A: If you see the American flag being flown upside down, you should contact the person or organization responsible for flying the flag and inform them that the flag is being displayed incorrectly.
Q: Can I fly the American flag on my car?
A: Yes, you can fly the American flag on your car. However, the flag should be attached to the vehicle in a way that prevents it from touching the ground or becoming damaged.
Q: What should I do with an old or damaged American flag?
A: Old or damaged American flags should be retired in a respectful manner. The American Legion and other organizations offer flag retirement ceremonies where you can bring your old flag to be properly retired.
References
