American Flag Etiquette

We would like to take a moment to recognize that this holiday is not only about barbeques and dazzling displays of fireworks. Independence Day commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, the document that declared American independence from Great Britain. It was a day that changed the trajectory of the history, brought freedom to our nation and laid the groundwork for democratic societies to thrive throughout the world.

While celebration is certainly in order, it is also a good time to remember how to respectfully display our American flag. Follow these basic rules to show respect to our flag and all it represents:

1. The flag should never touch the ground. Get help from others if you can’t lower a flag yourself. Lower it to waiting hands and store the flag folded neatly on a shelf.
2. The flag should be raised quickly and lowered slowly, with ceremony.
3. The flag should only be displayed during daylight hours, unless illuminated.
4. When the flag appears in a processional or parade, men should remove their hats and all citizens should place their right hand over their hearts.
5. The flag should not be dipped to anyone or flown upside down, except when using it as a distress signal.
6. The flag should never be used as a drape to cover a table, speaker, railing or any other thing. Red, white and blue bunting may be used for this purpose.
7. The flag should not be printed on advertising or anything intended for temporary use, such as napkins, paper plates, handkerchiefs or decorations.
8. The flag should always be displayed at the peak of the staff, unless flying at half staff in remembrance. When the flag is lowered from half staff it should first be raised fully for a moment before being brought down.
9. Clean and mend the flag as necessary to keep it in good condition.
10. If a flag becomes unusable because of disrepair the correct way to dispose of it is by burning it in a respectful manner.

Have a safe and happy Independence Day!