Care and handling of the American flag is steeped in tradition and respect. There is a right way and a wrong way to display the Stars and Stripes. This is called Flag Etiquette. The American flag should be held in the highest regard. It represents our nation and the many people who gave their lives for our country and our flag. 

• The flag is normally flown from sunrise to sunset.
• In the morning, raise the flag briskly. At sunset, lower it slowly. Always, raise and lower it ceremoniously.
• Do not fly it at night without a light on it.
• Do not fly it in rainy or inclement weather.
• After a tragedy or death, fly it at half-staff for 30 days. It’s called “half staff” on land, and “half mast” on a ship.
• When flown vertically on a pole, the stars and blue field, or “union”, is at the top and the end of the pole (away from your house).
• Always fly it at the top of the pole. Your state flag and others fly below it.
• The union is always on top. In print, the stars and blue field is always on the left.
• Never let your flag touch the ground, never…period.
• Fold your flag when storing. Don’t just stuff it in a drawer or box.
• When it is old and has seen better days, it is time to retire it. Burn or bury them. Please do not throw it in the trash.
• Do not disrespect it in any manner.

Did you Know? There is a very special ceremony for retiring Old Glory by burning it. It is a beautiful and touching ceremony. Boy Scout groups know the proper ceremony and perform it on a regular basis. Give your old flags to them. And, attend the ceremony.