Stars & Stripes Standards: How to Properly Display the American Flag

Dusty Rhodes • July 1, 2024

The Fourth of July is just around the corner, and millions of people will fly flags to recognize the patriotic holiday. If you plan on touting this iconic symbol of freedom, remember there’s a right way to set up, display, and dispose of the flag. Here are important flag etiquette reminders for a successful celebration.


THE UNITED STATES FLAG CODE

Established in 1998, the United States Flag Code acts as the official advisory on the appearance and display of the American flag. It dictates a variety of flag-related items, including the use of the flag in advertisements, the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance in schools, and how to address flag desecration or misuse. While not enforceable by law, citizens should follow the Flag Code to promote unity and respect.


HOW TO FLY THE AMERICAN FLAG

Before you fly your flag, make sure it has a uniform design: 13 horizontal stripes, alternating red and white, and a union of 50 white stars on a rectangular field of blue. On a flagpole, the union should always be at its peak, unless the flag is at half-staff, facing the left-hand side of the main observers.


The American flag must fly above other flags and be hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously. 

Flag flyers are also advised not to: 

  • Dip a flag to any person or thing
  • Fly ripped, stained, or unpresentable flags
  • Write or make marks on a flag
  • Let flags touch the ground
  • Fly flags with fold lines or kinks
  • Fly flags in the dark unless they’re illuminated


HOW TO DISPLAY THE AMERICAN FLAG

If a flag isn’t flying, it should be displayed vertically and suspended so its folds fall freely. Against walls, stripes can be displayed vertically or horizontally, with the union of stars facing to the left of any observers. Using the flag as a piece of clothing, like a cape, is prohibited and considered distasteful.


HOW TO FOLD THE AMERICAN FLAG 

When not in use, the flag should be folded 13 times into a triangle, representing the country’s historic 13 colonies. To do this:

  1. Lay the flag down on a flat surface in the same way you’d see it hanging.
  2. Fold the bottom half of the flag over the top half.
  3. Repeat step two by bringing the folded edge of the flag to meet the open edge.
  4. Start a triangular fold by bringing the striped corner of the folded edge to the open edge.
  5. Turn the outer point of the flag inward so it’s parallel with the open edge.
  6. Continue the pattern from steps four and five until the entire length of the flag is folded in a triangular shape with only the blue field visible.


HOW TO DISPOSE OF THE AMERICAN FLAG 

Flags should be disposed of appropriately when they’re no longer fit for display. There are a few ways to do this, including:

  • Flag donation. Many states offer designated locations to donate worn-out flags. Search “flag donations near me” online to find options.
  • Flag burning. Commonly used in the military, this ceremony involves placing a folded flag into a fire, giving it a salute, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance with a moment of silence, and burying the ashes.
  • Flag burial. Flags can also be buried without being burnt, so long as they’re folded correctly and placed in a dignified box or case.
  • Flag recycling. Some companies and organizations will accept used flags, salvaging portions to give them new life.

Source: Coming Home Magazine



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