15 Rules for our Stars and Stripes that Every American Should Know

Did you know there is something called Flag Etiquette? It's true!

 One of the things that was instilled in both of us is a LOVE and RESPECT for our great nation. An American Flag waving in the breeze and flying high is one of the ways we show respect and the love we both cherish for this country, so an American flag is a MUST at Dow Farms. However, there is more to it than just simply flying the Star Spangle Banner from our house. There is some responsibility that comes with it as well. Here is a list of some of the rules for flag etiquette that every AMERICAN should know....

1. Flags should be flown from sunrise to sunset daily. Flags maybe flown at night if they are properly illuminated during the hours of darkness. 

2. Flags should not be flown during inclement weather. Only if the flag is an all weather flag, may the flag be flown during rain, snow, etc. 

3. When flying two  flags on the same posts (ie. American flag and state flag), the American flag always goes on top. 

4. Never use the flag for decoration. Use Bunting instead of a flag for decorations. 

5. When flags are flown at parades, all uniformed military personnel should display the military salute. Military personnel and veterans who are not in uniform may display the military salute. All civilians present should face the flag, stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, and remove all hats and other headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder (hands should be over the heart). 

6. Stars on the flag when displayed should face north or east depending on the direction of the street the flag is being displayed over. 

7. On special days the flag maybe flown at half staff. For example, on Memorial day the flag should be flown at half staff until noon and then raised. 

8. Do not let the flag touch the ground, EVER!

9. Do not fly upside down unless there is an emergency. (Flags flown upside down is a sign of distress)

10. Do not carry the flag flat or carry things in it.

11. Do not use the flag as clothing. 

12. Do not store the flag where it can get dirty. 

13. Do not use it as a cover. 

14. Do not fasten it or tie it back. The flag should always fall free. 

15. Do not draw or mark on the flag. 

Now that you know the flag etiquette for our American Flag, I strongly urge every American to display an American Flag on their house. Our soldiers and veterans have fought for our freedoms and some even gave their lives to protect our freedoms, so let's show them some respect for their service by displaying a flag and being a responsible American by taking care of our flags. It really is the least we can to do celebrate our freedoms and salute the soldiers and veterans everyday, isn't it? 

Info taken from: https://www.vfw.org/Community/Flag-Education/