Proper Flag Etiquette We Should All Know

Europeans may find it odd that Americans tend to wave the flag around. Well, in Europe flag waving is tied to the Fascist movements that swept in the Axis powers during World War II. For Americans, displaying the flag simply means that the person is proud of their country and to be an American. Some people are confused on the etiquette of how to properly treat the flag. Showing the nations emblem with proper care and respect is not difficult. What follows are some simple guidelines on how to treat the Stars and Stripes.

When carrying the flag it is important not to dip it to any person or thing, and it should only be flown upside down as a signal of distress. Using the flag as a drapery or to cover a desk or some other object with the exception of the coffin of a former military member is also unacceptable flag etiquette. Those who wish to use the colors red, white and blue for decorative purpose. The blue should be displayed on top.

One thing that seems tacky enough that it should not be included in a discussion of flag etiquette is using Old Glory for marketing or advertising nor should a banner or something else be put on top of the flag. Crocheting flag covers it seems is also unacceptable as well as putting it on items for things that should be thrown away.

Perhaps the best known part of flag etiquette is that when raising or lowering the Stars and Stripe nor does proper flag etiquette include using Old Glory as a method for delivering items and using it for packing material also seems to be out.

Some of the items on the above list may seem a little ridiculous and using the flag to deliver things with or as packing material may seem a little odd, but the source I used for this article felt the need to include them. I can only imagine it was a problem for the author.

Occasionally a flag will get worn out, faded or ripped and need to be retired. Organizations such as the VFW or the American Legion conduct flag burning ceremonies where flags that have served honorably can be retired with proper decorum. Proper flag etiquette does not include burning our nation's emblem as part of a political statement or protest. The flag cannot be used as an item of clothing, although it can be included as patches on the uniforms of members of the military, firefighters, police men, and patriotic organizations such as the Boy Scouts.

Sources:

http://www.usflag.org/flagetiquette.html