The American flag is a powerful symbol of freedom, unity, and the values upon which the United States was founded. Knowing when and how to display the flag is a matter of pride and respect for many Americans. This guide will help you understand the key occasions and proper etiquette for flying the Stars and Stripes.
National Holidays
1. Independence Day (July 4th): This is one of the most significant days to display the American flag. It commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
2. Memorial Day (Last Monday in May): On this day, the flag is flown at half-staff until noon to honor those who have died in military service. After noon, the flag is raised to the top of the staff to symbolize the nation's resolve to continue fighting for freedom.
3. Veterans Day (November 11th): This day honors all military veterans. The flag should be flown at full staff.
4. Flag Day (June 14th): This day commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States on June 14, 1777.
5. Presidents' Day (Third Monday in February): A day to honor all U.S. presidents, the flag is flown at full staff.
Other Significant Days
1. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Third Monday in January): Honoring the civil rights leader, the flag is flown at full staff.
2. Labor Day (First Monday in September): Celebrating the contributions of American workers, the flag is displayed at full staff.
3. Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (December 7th): The flag is flown at half-staff to honor those who lost their lives in the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.
4. Patriot Day (September 11th): The flag is flown at half-staff to honor the victims of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
5. National POW/MIA Recognition Day (Third Friday in September): Honoring prisoners of war and those missing in action, the flag is displayed at full staff.
Daily and Special Occasions
1. Daily Display: The flag can be flown daily from sunrise to sunset. If the flag is illuminated, it can be displayed 24 hours a day.
2. Special Occasions:
The flag is often displayed during parades, ceremonies, and other patriotic events. It is also appropriate to display the flag on election days and state holidays.
Proper Flag Etiquette
1. Handling and Display:
The flag should never touch the ground.
When displayed, the union (the blue field with stars) should be at the peak of the staff.
If hung vertically, the union should be at the top left from the observer’s perspective.
The flag should never be used as clothing, bedding, or drapery.
2. Half-Staff Guidelines:
The flag is flown at half-staff in mourning or on special occasions as directed by the president or state governors.
When raising the flag to half-staff, it should be hoisted to the peak for a moment before being lowered to the half-staff position. When lowering, it should again be briefly raised to the peak before fully lowering.
3. Disposing of the Flag:
When a flag is worn out or no longer fit for display, it should be disposed of respectfully, preferably by burning. Many American Legion posts and other organizations conduct flag retirement ceremonies.
Conclusion
Displaying the American flag is a meaningful way to show patriotism and respect for the values it represents. By following these guidelines on when and how to display the flag, you honor the traditions and history of the United States. Whether on national holidays, special occasions, or daily, flying the flag is a proud tradition that unites Americans in their love for their country.
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