Why Is the Flag Backwards on Soldiers' Patches?
Since the start of the Invasion of Iraq, soldiers began to wear American flags positioned on their shoulders. Many observers have noted that soldiers coming back from combat, as well as those stationed around the world, wear the American flag insignia backwards. Despite normal flag etiquette, this is intentional for soldiers.
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Features
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Two different patches are worn on soldiers' sleeves. On the left arm, the traditional appearance with the flag's canton positioned to the left is worn. On the right, the backwards image with the canton to the right is worn.
Function
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The general idea of the backwards patches is to pay homage to the traditions of soldiers who carried flags into battle. The image is designed to make it appear that the soldier is running against the wind, carrying a flag into combat.
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Significance
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According to Army Regulation 670-1, "Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia," all soldiers must wear the flag insignia on utility uniforms as of October 1, 2005.
Misconceptions
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The fact that the shoulder patches appear backwards is simply due to the fact that observers are used to the U.S. federal code mandating the proper use of the flag emblem. This code states that the canton blue portion of the flag always be positioned to the left of the observer.
Time Frame
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As long as the military is engaged in combat, the backwards patch will be worn on the right shoulder. After peace is obtained again, the backwards image will be switched to the traditional U.S. code regulations.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of The U.S. Army
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Comments
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dandmb50
Aug 25, 2010
Now I don't know what a canton is? I still don't understand??
