Properly flying the Stars and Stripes

This column traditionally addresses etiquette, the rules of behavior and conduct in the workplace. Those rules almost always apply to our personal lives as well. With the 4th of July upon us, I saw an opportunity to talk about an often overlooked topic but a fairly common practice — flying the American flag. It’s one of many ways to show our patriotism on the day that marks our independence as a nation.

For those who have served or are serving in our military, flag etiquette is second nature. For the rest of us, the do’s and don’ts are not so well-known. If you are among those eager to fly “Old Glory” on the July 4th or any other holiday, you, no doubt, want to do it right. You want to avoid anything that is disrespectful of our stars and stripes.

There is a United States Flag Code which establishes advisory rules for the care and display of the flag of the United States of America. This is a federal law with penalties for failure to comply; but not to worry, if you get something wrong—the penalties are not enforced. Only your neighbor down the street who is a retired army general will call you out if you err. As with all etiquette, compliance is voluntary but strongly suggested. For purposes of this article, I’ve outlined best practices for respectfully caring for and displaying your flag.

Displaying the Flag

The flag is displayed from sunrise to sunset on buildings and outdoor flagstaffs. It may only be displayed 24 hours a day if it is illuminated during the hours of darkness. If you are flying the flag on the front of your house, you need not run out and purchase a spotlight. Just leave your front porch light on. It’s as simple as that.

Pay attention to the position of the union—that’s the blue background with white stars, symbolizing the union of the states. The union should be at the peak of the staff when projecting horizontally, at an angle from a windowsill or the front of a building. When displayed against a wall or in a window, the union should be uppermost and to the flag’s right—that would be to the observer’s left.

If you happen to have a 48-star flag or any other historic flag, display it with pride. All U.S. flags may be flown as long as they are in good condition. The current 50-star flag was designated as the official flag by President Eisenhower in 1959.

The flag should not be flown in inclement weather unless you have an all-weather flag, one made of nylon, polyester or other treated material.

The flag is never displayed with the union down except as a signal of extreme distress meaning danger to life or property.

Respecting the Flag

Flags should not be displayed over any part of a vehicle, train or boat.

Neither the flag nor any part of it should be used for apparel, bedding, drapery, or as part of a costume or uniform. The exception is using it as a flag patch on the uniform of military personnel, firemen and policemen.

No items that are intended for temporary use should be decorated with the flag. That means that the flag should not be embroidered, embossed or printed on cushions (please, don’t sit on the flag), napkins, boxes, bags or anything else that will be discarded.

Disposing of the Flag

Torn or tattered flags are not appropriate for display and ought to be destroyed in a respectful manner. According to the code of respect for the flag, this should be done by burning. Organizations such as the American Legion, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts regularly retire flags. There is no need to start your own bonfire.

Happy 4th of July and happy flag flying.

Lydia Ramsey is a Savannah-based business etiquette expert, keynote speaker, trainer and author. Contact her at 912-598-9812 or visit her website: LydiaRamsey.com to find out how her presentations and workshops can help you and your employees add the polish that builds profits.