How to Respect the American Flag
President Franklin Roosevelt codified the rules concerning how the U.S. flag should be displayed and handled. The flag code is official, but groups follow it voluntarily. Following the flag code shows respect for the symbol and the nation.
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Instructions
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Display the flag from sunrise to sunset, or illuminate it if it is out overnight.
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Fly the U.S. flag highest if it is flown with those of states or municipalities. Make it the same size and same height as flags from other countries.
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When flying the flag at half-staff, raise it to the top of the pole, then lower it halfway.
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Display the flag with the blue field of stars to the observer's left.
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Do not fly the flag in bad weather.
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Never let the flag touch the floor or the ground.
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Do not use the flag in clothing or bedding. Do not use it in advertising.
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Tips & Warnings
When a new state is added to the Union, a new star is added to the blue field on the flag, known as the "union." This new star is officially added on the July 4th following the admission of the new state to the Union.
The American flag should never touch the ground.
The American flag should be hoisted quickly, but lowered slowly.
When the American flag is flown at half-mast--to honor a government official--the flag should be hoisted all the way to the top of the staff, then lowered slowly to the half-mast position.
Flag Day is June 14, with Flag Week preceding Flag Day.
References
- Photo Credit Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images
