This Memorial Day, Don’t Forget Your Flag Etiquette

9 simple rules to ensure that the flag is treated with the dignity it deserves for holidays and beyond

Simply put, U.S. Flag Etiquette refers to the set of guidelines that govern the respectful display, handling, and disposal of the American flag. These rules ensure that the flag is treated with the dignity it deserves as a symbol of the United States. According to the U.S. Flag Code and traditional practices, here are a few key principles to follow:

How to Display the Flag Properly:

The flag should always be displayed right side up, and the stars should be in the upper left corner when the flag is displayed vertically. Never display the flag upside down, except in cases of extreme distress. When displayed outdoors, the flag should be illuminated if it is flown at night.

Showing Respect for the Flag:

The flag should never be dipped to any person or thing. It should only be dipped in military salute during official ceremonies, such as when it is being saluted during military or government events. The flag should not touch the ground, floor, or water. If it does, it should be properly cleaned, but if it is no longer fit for use, it should be retired respectfully (usually by burning).

Flag Placement in Parades:

The U.S. flag should be at the front and center in parades, always leading the procession. If the flag is carried with other flags, it should be on its own right, or in front of all other flags.

Half-Mast Etiquette:

The flag should be flown at half-staff to honor a national tragedy, a day of remembrance, or to mourn the death of a public official (like the President, Vice President, or members of Congress). When raising the flag to half-staff, raise it to the top of the pole first, and then lower it to the halfway point. The flag should be raised to the top again before being lowered at the end of the day.

Flag Placement with Other Flags:

When displayed with other flags, the U.S. flag should be above all others. It should never be draped over any other flag. When the U.S. flag is flown with state or other flags, the U.S. flag should be on the far left if displayed on a horizontal plane or at the top if displayed on a vertical plane.

Respect in Public Ceremonies:

When the flag is displayed during a public ceremony, everyone present should stand and face the flag. The flag should be saluted with a hand over the heart. For military personnel or veterans, a salute (with the right hand) is given instead of the hand-over-heart salute.

Flags on Vehicles, Advertising, or Commercial Use:

The U.S. flag should not be displayed on any vehicle unless it is a part of a flagstaff or mounted properly. The flag should never be used for advertising purposes, such as on clothing, as part of a logo, or in commercial promotions. The flag should not be embroidered or printed on clothing or advertising products.

Disposing of the Flag:

When a flag becomes worn or tattered, it should be properly retired. The most respectful way to dispose of an old flag is by burning it in a dignified manner, often during a ceremonial event.Many American Legion posts or other veterans' organizations offer flag retirement services.

One Last Thing to Remember: 

According to the U.S. Flag Code, Old Glory should not be used as a costume or draped as a garment. Furthermore, it should never be used as clothing, draped on individuals, or turned into a costume for any reason. We are left wondering if this means flag bikinis are “out” this summer, now that we know the proper etiquette? But perhaps, there are some exceptions to these rules? 

Don’t forget to celebrate Memorial Day by flying Old Glory at half-staff until noon to honor those who served, then full-staff the remainder of the day.