united states flag

5 Things To Do With An American Flag

The American flag is a symbol of the United States and its values. In this post, we'll discuss several things to know about the American Flag.

Display the American Flag

One of the most common things to do with the American flag is to display it. The United States Flag Code, which was adopted in 1923 and contains guidelines for handling and displaying the flag, provides specific instructions on how to display the flag.
usa flag
The flag should be displayed on a pole with the blue field (the portion of the flag with the stars) facing up. The flag should be raised quickly and lowered slowly and ceremoniously. When displayed on a wall or in a window, the blue field should be on the left when viewed from the street. When displayed with other flags, the American flag should be flown at the same height as the other flags and should be given the place of honor, which is to the flag's own right.

Show Respect for the American Flag

Showing respect for the American flag is another important thing to do. The Flag Code states that the flag should never be used as a covering for a ceiling or a floor, or as a tablecloth. It should never be used to carry or hold anything, and it should never be used as a costume or athletic uniform.
The flag should also be treated with respect during events such as parades and ceremonies. When the flag is passing in a parade, it should be saluted by all individuals present. When the flag is displayed during a ceremony, those present should stand at attention and face the flag.

Display the American Flag at Half-Staff

The American flag is often displayed at half-staff, or half-mast, as a sign of mourning. This is typically done in honor of a national or state leader, or on designated days of mourning such as Patriot Day (September 11) and Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15).
To display the flag at half-staff, it is raised to the top of the flagpole and then lowered to a position halfway between the top and bottom of the flagpole. The flag should be returned to full-staff once the mourning period has ended.

Properly Dispose of a Worn American Flag

When an American flag becomes worn, tattered, or otherwise no longer suitable for display, it is important to properly dispose of it. The Flag Code states that the flag should be destroyed in a dignified manner, preferably by burning. This can be done by an individual or by an organization such as the Boy Scouts or American Legion.
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It is important to follow proper protocol when disposing of a flag. The flag should be folded into a triangle and then burned in a respectful manner, with the blue field being the last part of the flag to be burned.

Use the American Flag as a Symbol of National Unity

Finally, the American flag can be used as a symbol of national unity and pride. It is a common sight at patriotic events such as Independence Day and Veterans Day, and it is often displayed at sporting events and other public gatherings.
The flag can also be used as a way to show support for the United States and its values. For example, many people choose to display the flag at their homes or businesses as a way to show their patriotism and support for the country.
The American flag is a powerful symbol of the United States and its values.
patriot flag
There are many things that can be done with the flag, including displaying it, showing respect for it, displaying it at half-staff, properly disposing of it when it is no longer suitable for display, and using it as a symbol of national unity. By following the guidelines outlined in the United States Flag Code, we can all help to honor and respect this important symbol of our nation.
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