Flag Season: Proper Etiquette for the Stars and Stripes

With Independence Day on the horizon, it's time to brush up on how to properly care for our nation's flag

There are rules to follow when displaying a U.S. flag, such as not flying it in stormy weather and illuminating it if flying at night. Fei Meng

Especially with Flag Day (June 14) and the Fourth of July just around the corner, let’s get ready to proudly fly our flags—after a quick review of basic flag etiquette.

Respecting Old Glory

Few people are aware that there is an actual government document that dictates the “proper” way to display our national flag. Dating back to Dec. 22, 1942, the U.S. Flag Code describes a wealth of proper flag manners.

Veterans and active-duty military members are required to stand at attention and salute when the flag is being raised or lowered (not everyone knows that rule). Civilians are expected to place their right hand over their hearts as the flag is being hoisted. On Memorial Day, the flag is to be flown at half-staff to respect our fallen soldiers.

Fly It Proudly

The U.S. flag should be flown daily. It used to be that many schools would start the day with a flag-raising ceremony that was attended by the students and teachers. At the end of the school day, the flag would then be lowered, but without a ceremony.