The American flag (or any flag for that matter) is more than just a fabric – it represents the nation’s history, freedom, and national pride. But here’s the thing: there’s a right way for both handling and displaying it. Many people don’t know that there is a thing called flag etiquette, and common behaviors like placing it on the ground or using it as a tablecloth violate this etiquette. If you want to show national pride or prevent a social slip-up, here are 10 flag etiquette rules that you should follow.
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Never Let the Flag Touch the Ground
This one is a big deal. When the flag makes contact with the ground, it shows disrespect. If the flag accidentally falls to the ground, you must lift it right away and check for damage. Do not throw the flag away when it gets dirty – make sure to clean it thoroughly.
Always Display the Flag Right-Side Up
When the flag is flown upside down, it works as a distress signal to communicate an emergency or severe situation. Be sure to keep the stars in the top left corner when displaying the flag vertically or horizontally (unless you mean to send a distress signal).
Take the Flag Down at Night (Unless It’s Properly Lit)
The U.S. Flag Code requires that the flag be displayed only between sunrise and sunset unless it is properly illuminated for night viewing. You must install dedicated lighting to keep it illuminated throughout the night to make sure the flag remains visible and respected.
Never Use the Flag as Clothing or Decoration
The flag should not be used as clothing or casual decoration, even though flag-themed clothing and household items are common in today’s society. Should you hang it over furniture, use it as window dressing, or wrap yourself inside it? That’s a no-go.
Don’t Fly a Damaged or Dirty Flag
Do not display a flag that shows signs of tearing or fading. When your flag shows signs of wear and tear, you should replace it immediately. A worn-out flag sends a message of neglect instead of respect. The old flag shouldn’t be tossed away because it requires proper retirement procedures (details will follow).
The Flag Should Always Be the Highest and Most Prominent
When flying multiple flags together, keep the U.S. flag at the highest point where it receives the most honor. Flying any state, organizational or corporate flag above the American flag is not permitted. When flags are displayed at equal heights, the American flag must be positioned to the observer’s left side.
When Displayed Against a Wall, Position It Correctly
The union (blue section with stars) must be in the top left corner when displaying the flag flat against a wall. The position of the stars should remain constant whether the flag is displayed vertically or horizontally. Though hanging the flag incorrectly appears to be a minor error, those who value flag etiquette view it as clear evidence of neglect.
Salute the Flag During the National Anthem
During the national anthem, people should stand and remove their hat and place their right hand over their heart for proper etiquette. If you’re in uniform, you should salute. People can show their respect through this simple gesture. Choosing to ignore this tradition or staying seated while others stand can appear disrespectful even if the action was unintentional.
Never Let the Flag Be Used as a Covering
The flag must only cover statues, monuments, or caskets when done through proper respectful methods used in military or official government contexts. The flag must not be treated as a decorative cover or draped casually over objects for show.
Retire the Flag Properly When It’s Worn Out
A flag should receive an honorable retirement rather than simply being disposed of in the trash when it becomes worn. Organizations such as the American Legion or Boy Scouts generally conduct flag-burning ceremonies to retire old flags properly. Many locations provide specific drop-off sites to manage flag retirement processes on your behalf. When burning the flag yourself, it must be done respectfully.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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