American Flag Etiquette and Military Regulations

There are regulations for properly handling a U.S. flag.

The American flag is a key symbol of the United States, and there is a codified system of rules for respecting it. These regulations are compiled in the flag code.

Presentation

The flag of the United States is expected to be displayed outdoors at all Army installations. When the flag of the United States of America is displayed with another flag against a wall from crossed staffs, the American flag should be on the right. During times of national grief and tragedy, the flag should be flown at half-staff. It should be first hoisted to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position to comply with standard regulations.

Disposal

When disposing of an American flag, it should be folded in its customary manner and ceremonially disposed of. It is to be placed into a fired and burned completely. It is at this moment that individuals can come to attention, salute the flag, recite the pledge of allegiance and have a brief period of silence.

Violations

The flag should never have any mark, insignia, letter, word, number, figure or drawing of any kind placed on it or attached to it. The flag should never touch anything beneath it such as the ground floor or water. No part of the flag should be used as a costume or article of clothing.

References

• USHistory.org: Flag Code
• EastWindsor.gov: Flag Rules and Regulations
• USHistory.org: Army Regulation 840--10: Flags, Guidons, Streamers, Tabards, and Automobile and Aircraft Plates
• Veterans of Foreign Wars: Flag Etiquette