DIsplaying Our Flags
by Evelyn J. Mocbeichel

The Flag Code, as adopted by the National Flag Conference states that during the playing of the National Anthem, The Star Spangled Banner, all present should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart.  Men not in uniform should remove their headdress.  Persons in uniform should render the military salute at the first note of the anthem and retain this position until the last note.  When the flag is not displayed, those present should face toward the music and act in the same manner as if the flag were displayed.  The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag should be rendered in the same manner, with the right hand over the heart and by standing at attention.  Persons in uniform should remain silent, face the flag, and render the military salute.

The display and use of flags by civilians have guidelines for time and occasions for display, hoisting and lowering. The universal custom is to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on stationary flagstaffs in the open.  When a Patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed 24 hours a day, if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness. The flag should be hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously.  The flag should not be displayed on days when the weather is inclement, except when an all weather flag is displayed.

When displayed in a group of flags, the American Flag should be at the center and at the highest point of the group, such as in a group of state flags or localities or pennants of societies. When these flags are flown from adjacent staffs, the flag of the United States should be hoisted first and lowered last. No flag or pennant may be placed above the flag of the United States or to the United State flag's right. The very most important rule of flag etiquette is that the flag must NEVER touch anything beneath it, such as the ground, the floor, water or merchandise.

When a flag is in such a condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, it should be destroyed in a dignified way, which preferably is by burning.

To obtain a copy of a poster entitled "The Flag Code" call your local American Legion.  Representatives may be found in most County Veteran's Service Agencies listed in your phone book under County Government.  Our flag is a symbol of our freedom, democracy, and our great country.  Knowing how to treat, care for, and display this piece of our heritage is a must for both adults and children and a way to express our respect for those who gave their lives defending the flag.