Respect for the American Flag is fundamental to National Pride and Patriotism. Understanding the Do’s and Don’ts is critical when displaying the American Flag. The way we handle the American flag shows our respect for the country it represents and the Patriots who served or died protecting it. Service men and women are allowed to have the American Flag draped over their coffin as a sign of respect and honor. That flag is then folded and given to a family member, thanking them for their loved one’s service and sacrifice.

For those who don’t know, the 13 alternating stripes represent the 13 original colonies, and the 50 white stars represent the 50 states in the union. Red symbolizes hardness, valor, and courage, while white represents purity and innocence. Blue signifies vigilance, perseverance, and Justice.

The U.S. flag should be flown above all others and can be displayed every day from sunrise to sunset. If properly illuminated, the flag can remain displayed overnight. Although there are many rules on how to raise and lower the flag, some of the major ones are: 1. Never let the flag touch the ground, 2. Never fly the flag upside down, 3. Do not fasten or tie in the back. Always allow it to flow freely. The flag can he flown at half-staff on special holidays (ie, Memorial Day) or by order of the President and Governor.

A flag should not be tossed away as trash when it becomes unserviceable. The flag should be lowered and properly folded. It can then be turned into any local American Legion, VFW, or County Veteran Service Office. A proper ceremony is conducted to honor and dignify worn or tattered American flags, which local Veteran Service Organizations conduct.