Thanks for taking the time to give a little information on a very important subject. I too look a the position of flags and am amazed at the number that are flown incorrectly.
One of the many positive attributes of my Springlakes neighborhood, like many other neighborhoods, is the number of residents who proudly fly the American flag.
There are, however, correct and incorrect ways to display the red, white and blue, as detailed in United States Code Title 4, Chapter 1 and Title 36, Chapter 3.
The most common mistakes concern lighting and positioning. When flying the American flag outdoors between dusk and dawn, it must be illuminated. Although having its own spotlight is preferred, it is not required, and a porch light will suffice so long as the flag is clearly lit. A street light is usually not sufficient.
When you see a flag line in a parade, the American flag is always in the position of honor, to the right of all other flags, from the flag bearer's perspective. That means it is always to the far left as the flag line approaches.
The same rule applies when the American flag is displayed on a house with other flags or banners. It should always be in the position of honor, to the right of other flags or banners -- from the house's perspective. That means as you approach the house the American flag should always be to the left of other flags or banners.
Of course, the American flag should also be at equal height or higher than any other flag or banner. There are many Web sites that answer questions about displaying and handling the American flag. I've found http://www.ushistory.org/betsy/flagetiq.html to be one of the best.
If you are one of the many patriots who proudly displays an American flag, do it correctly, and be sure to thank a veteran for the right to do so.
Thom Tuckey, Martinez
Comments
Thanks for taking the time to give a little information on a very important subject. I too look a the position of flags and am amazed at the number that are flown incorrectly.
When I graduated from the eighth grade and again from High School, we were required to know all the rules of flag etiquette regarding how it was to be displayed and we were tested on it. I don't think those things are taught any more or required to be known. I see many abuses of the flag and have corrected & instructed many younger generation people regarding it.
Come on rbk...they didn't even have flags way back then. Great info. Respect of our flag is important to me as well.
You're right rbk. The teachers today, like Bill Ayers, have a different way of handling the flag. Hasn't our country progressed? Obama for the next 4 years
Thanks for the info. I am a product of Scouts. I also remember the lessons taught in school.
Respect was so instilled in me, to this day, wearing a tie that looks like a flag seems wrong.
How can we expect respect for a flag when a large portion of our country have no self-respect or respect for others.
Some of the Obama supporters are mean victors.
I thought the libs gave out trophies for showing up?
It seems when they win it's "In yo face".
Good Luck to the victors. Enjoy your spoils.
We'll be lucky to still have a flag after the next 4 years.
We now have a President that want salute our flag! How SAD!! SusieQ
There is also a proper way to dispose of a soiled, torn, or worn out flag. Does anyone out there know the proper etiquette of such disposition ? I do.
Why, you burn it, of course.
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