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What is Proper Flag Etiquette?
Memorial Day is traditionally the day that Americans set aside to show gratitude, patriotism, and appreciation for all the Veterans who have lost their lives in service to their country. This day began as Decoration Day and was first celebrated, after the American Civil War. Memorial Day is celebrated as a federal holiday on the last Monday in May. In addition to decorating the graves of veterans with flowers and flags, Americans also use this day to display, "Old Glory".
Flying the American Flag has its' own set of etiquette guidelines. Following these tips will help you display the flag in its' proper glory.
On Memorial Day the flag is flown at half-staff, from sunrise to noon. From noon to sunset, the flag is flown at full staff. The flag may also be flown at half-staff by order of the governor of a state, or the President of the United States, in mourning of designated principals.
- The flag should always be clean and untattered. Designated groups have been allowed the responsibility of burning flags no longer suitable for display.
- The flag is flown upside down only as a distress signal.
- The flag should never touch the ground or any other object.
- The flag should never be used as a covering or receptacle, written on, or altered in any manner.
- The flag should only be flown between sunrise and sunset. If flown at night it should be illuminated.
- The flag should only be flown from the peak of the staff.
- The flag should be raised briskly and lowered slowly.
- The American flag is always flown at the peak of any staff that has other flags. It must also be the largest.
- The American flag should be saluted as it is being raised and lowered.
Memorial Day, Flag Day, which is June 14, 2016 or any day is appropriate to display the flag.
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