How to Properly Fly the Flag

During the summer months, there are a lot of holidays that celebrate veterans and those who served in the military. Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day come to mind. During this time of year, it is common for people to fly the flag at their home or place of business. But are they doing it right?

There is a code of rules that must be followed when flying the flag. 4 U.S.C. Section 4-10 dictates the following rules for handling and displaying the US Flag.

I must confess that the idea for this post came from a pamphlet I picked up at a Cracker Barrel restaurant. I think it's great that this restaurant reminds people how to fly the American flag properly.

So here's what you need to remember:

• If you choose to display the flag 24 hours a day, it should be lighted at night.
• When raising and lowering the flag, hoist it briskly and lower it slowly and ceremoniously.
• Do not leave the flag out in the rain or snow or any other weather that might cause it to be damaged.
• The flag should not touch the ground, floor, water, or anything else beneath it.
• The flag should always be flown with the blue and white stars at the top.
• If you attach a flag to your car, it should be clamped to the right front fender. Flags should not be draped over the car.
• The flag should never be worn as apparel or a costume.
• If your flag becomes worn or no longer fitting for display, it should be destroyed properly and in a dignified manner. You can find help with this from your local VFW hall or Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts troupe.

For more, please refer to the United States Flag Code.