U.S. Flag Etiquette: Proper Display, Care, and Respect for the Stars and Stripes

The American flag—Stars and Stripes, Old Glory, Star-Spangled Banner—carries deep symbolic weight. The U.S. Flag Code (4 U.S.C. §§ 1–10) establishes federal guidelines for its display, handling, and retirement. Observing these customs honors what the flag represents.

Design Specifications

• 13 alternating red/white horizontal stripes (7 red, 6 white)
• Blue canton (union) with 50 white 5-pointed stars (9 rows alternating 6/5)
• Proportions: 10:19 (hoist:fly)

Display Rules

• Daily: Sunrise to sunset only (unless illuminated)
• 24/7 sites: White House, Capitol, Iwo Jima Memorial, Fort McHenry, others by presidential proclamation
• Position: Union upper-left (observer's left). On wall: union top-left. On vehicle: staff on right (passenger) side.
• With other flags: U.S. flag highest/center. Same halyard: U.S. above. Crossed staffs: U.S. right (observer's left), staff in front.
• Half-staff: By presidential/gubernatorial order. Raise to peak first, then lower. Memorial Day: half-staff until noon.

Handling and Respect

• Never dip to any person/thing
• Never carry flat/horizontal—always aloft and free
• Never use as drapery, bedding, apparel, disposable items
• Never attach marks, insignia, letters, designs
• Never use for advertising
• Salute: military salute (uniformed), hand over heart (civilians)

Care and Maintenance

• Inspect regularly—fly end corners wear first
• Clean: hand-wash mild detergent, line dry. Or dry clean.
• Repair: minor tears OK. Major damage = retire.
• Storage: fold properly (triangle fold), clean dry place

Retirement (Disposal)

When no longer a fitting emblem: destroy dignifiedly, preferably by burning. Many VFW, American Legion, Scout units conduct ceremonies. Never throw in trash.

Weather Considerations

• All-weather flags (nylon/polyester) OK for inclement
• Cotton/wool: take down in rain/snow
• High wind: take down to prevent shredding

Common Misconceptions

• Myth: Flag touching ground = must burn. Fact: Clean and continue if undamaged.
• Myth: Fringe = maritime/admiralty law. Fact: Decorative only, no legal significance.
• Myth: Flag code is enforceable law. Fact: Advisory, no penalties (First Amendment).

The flag represents living principles. Treating it with care isn't ritual—it's citizenship in action.