How to Properly Display the American Flag

It is an honor to fly the American flag as a symbol of our country. In order to properly display the American flag, there are a few simple guidelines that should be followed at all times.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Do not use the American flag as drapery or decoration. There is bunting that comes in red, white and blue that is for this purpose.

2. Only fly the American flag at night if it has proper lighting. In most circumstances, the flag should be raised at sunrise and lowered at sunset.

3. Do not allow the American flag to touch the ground. This is a disgrace and all precautions should be taken to ensure this does not happen.

4. Always fly the American flag in the top position on the flag pole. If other flags are present on nearby flag poles, the American flag should fly higher than the other flags.

5. Raise the flag fully before flying it at half staff. When the flag is lowered at sunset from half staff, it should be raised fully first.

Tips & Warnings

• Salute the flag when lowering and raising if you are a member of the military. Civilians should remove any hats and place their right hand over their heart.
• To properly dispose of the flag, it should be burned in a ceremonious manner. Veteran groups can assist in proper disposal of the flag. A tattered flag should never be flown.