What is the U.S. Flag Code?
The American flag is more than just a symbol of our nation; it represents the values, history, and sacrifices that have shaped the United States. Whether flying the flag on national holidays, displaying it outside your home, or raising it in front of a business, it’s essential to follow the U.S. Flag Code to ensure you’re showing proper respect. Additionally, there are many other kinds of flags you may want to fly alongside your Stars and Stripes, and it’s important to know the etiquette for doing so.
At Kronberg’s, we believe in honoring both the American flag and specialty flags with the dignity they deserve. In this blog, we’ll break down key points of the U.S. Flag Code:
What is the U.S. Flag Code?
The U.S. Flag Code is a set of guidelines that dictates the proper ways to display and care for the American flag. While it isn’t enforced by law, following the Flag Code is a sign of respect for the symbol of our nation and those who have fought to protect it. Here are some important rules from the Flag Code to keep in mind:
1. Displaying the Flag
- Orientation: The union (the blue field with stars) should always be at the top left when the flag is hung horizontally or vertically.
- Time of Day: The flag should only be displayed from sunrise to sunset. However, it can be flown 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during the night.
- Weather Conditions: The flag should not be flown during inclement weather unless it’s made from all-weather material.
- Half-Staff: When mourning, the flag should be flown at half-staff. To do this, raise it briskly to the top of the pole before lowering it to the halfway point.
2. Caring for the Flag
- Respectful Handling: The flag should never touch the ground, floor, or water. When being lowered or folded, it should always be handled with care.
- Disposal: When a flag becomes tattered or worn, it should be retired in a dignified manner, preferably by burning. Many veterans’ organizations hold flag retirement ceremonies for this purpose.
3. Prohibited Uses
- Advertising: The flag should not be used for advertising purposes, and it should never be printed on disposable items like napkins or paper plates.
- Clothing: While it’s common to see the flag on apparel, the Flag Code advises against wearing the flag itself or using its image on items meant to be discarded.
By adhering to these rules, you can ensure you’re honoring the flag’s importance and the ideals it represents.
How to Properly Display Specialty Flags
While the U.S. Flag Code is focused primarily on the American flag, there are guidelines to follow when displaying other flags alongside it:
- Prominence: The American flag should always take precedence. It should be flown in the center of multiple flags and higher than other flags or, if at the same height as other flags, placed in a position of honor (to the viewer’s left).
- Military Protocol: On military holidays, like Veterans Day or Memorial Day, it’s common to display the American flag alongside military service flags to honor those who have served. The order of precedence for service flags is Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, Coast Guard.
- Historical Flags: When displaying historical flags, like the Betsy Ross or Gadsden flag, it’s respectful to position them below or alongside the current American flag, never above it.
Understanding the U.S. Flag Code and the significance of specialty flags helps us honor the symbols that represent our nation, its history, and its people. Whether you’re flying the American flag or a specialty flag, the act of displaying these banners should always be done with care, respect, and pride.
At Kronberg’s, we are proud to offer a wide range of flags to suit every occasion. From the Stars and Stripes to military and custom flags, we’ve got everything you need to fly your flag with honor. Browse our collection today and find the perfect flag to represent your values.
