What Is the Proper Way to Fold the American Flag?

Use proper etiquette when folding the American flag.

The U.S. flag flies only from dawn to dusk unless properly lighted at night. It is respectful of the American flag and our nation to follow proper etiquette when taking down and folding the nation's flag.

Reason for Folding

The American flag cannot be carried flat, according to proper etiquette. The flag must be folded appropriately to be stored. Armed forces personnel fold a flag that is placed over the casket at military funerals and present it to the family of the deceased.

Proper Way to Fold the Flag

Holding the flag at the ends, fold it in half and repeat once more, making sure the blue section is on the outside after folding. Make triangular folds toward the blue section until the whole flag takes the form of a triangle. Insert the loose end into the pouch formed by the folds.

Representation of Each Fold

Each flag fold signifies a specific value relating to the original foundation of the United States. Freedom, the armed forces and Christian beliefs are symbolized as every fold is completed.

References

• The American Legion: Flag Folding Procedures and Symbols
• FlagandBanner.com: American Flag Etiquette
• United States Flag Store: Folding the American Flag