Proper Display of Indoor Flags
The flag is a treasured symbol of all that Americans hold dear. The Flag Code details how civilians and civilian groups should display and handle flags, and also codifies other rules and customs relating to the flag. Government-operated facilities such as schools, state houses, and military bases have their own rules for flag display. Displaying a flag properly will help you avoid social gaffes in private and public facilities.
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Right Up Front
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The flag should be displayed above flags of states, cities or organizations. The flag should be displayed in front of and to the right of the flags of other nations, at an equal height. The flag should not touch anything beneath it, and should never touch the ground. If displayed flat on stage or a speaker's platform, the flag should be above and behind the speaker's head. If on a staff, the flag should be displayed in front of the speaker and to the speaker's right. The union section, the part with the blue background and white stars, should face up and to the viewer's left.
For Display, Not Use
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Nothing should be placed on top of a flag. A flag should not be used as linen for purposes of home decor, including bedding, bath or kitchen textiles. A flag or part of a flag should not be worn, although a flag patch or lapel pin may be worn. A flag should not be used as a receptacle or container. The flag or its image should not be used for advertising purposes, and its image should not be applied or affixed to anything for temporary use.
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Display As Is
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A flag should not be marked or altered in any way. When on display, it should not be folded or gathered. Nothing should be affixed to a flag. A flag should not be cut for any reason.
When Flags Become Damaged
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If worn or tattered, according to the US Flag Code, Title 4, Chapter 1, Section 8k, "The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning." You may contact your local Boy Scout or Girl Scout troop, chapter of Veterans of Foreign Wars or American Legion for proper flag disposal. You may also dispose of the flag yourself in a respectful manner, as long as local ordinances regarding fire management are adhered to.
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References
- Photo Credit American Flag image by dwight9592 from Fotolia.com
