UNITED STATES CODE, TITLE 4, CHAPTER 1
§ 1. Flag; stripes and stars on
The flag of the United States shall be thirteen horizontal stripes, alternate red and white; and the
union of the flag shall be forty-eight stars, white in a blue field.
§ 2. Same; additional stars
On the admission of a new State into the Union one star shall be added to the union of the flag;
and such addition shall take effect on the fourth day of July then next succeeding such
admission.
§ 3. Use of flag for advertising purposes; mutilation of flag
Any person who, within the District of Columbia, in any manner, for exhibition or display, shall
place or cause to be placed any word, figure, mark, picture, design, drawing, or any
advertisement of any nature upon any flag, standard, colors, or ensign of the United States of
America; or shall expose or cause to be exposed to public view any such flag, standard, colors, or
ensign upon which shall have been printed, painted, or otherwise placed, or to which shall be
attached, appended, affixed, or annexed any word, figure, mark, picture, design, or drawing, or
any advertisement of any nature; or who, within the District of Columbia, shall manufacture, sell,
expose for sale, or to public view, or give away or have in possession for sale, or to be given
away or for use for any purpose, any article or substance being an article of merchandise, or a
receptacle for merchandise or article or thing for carrying or transporting merchandise, upon
which shall have been printed, painted, attached, or otherwise placed a representation of any
such flag, standard, colors, or ensign, to advertise, call attention to, decorate, mark, or distinguish
the article or substance on which so placed shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be
punished by a fine not exceeding $100 or by imprisonment for not more than thirty days, or both,
in the discretion of the court. The words “flag, standard, colors, or ensign”, as used herein, shall
include any flag, standard, colors, ensign, or any picture or representation of either, or of any part
or parts of either, made of any substance or represented on any substance, of any size evidently
purporting to be either of said flag, standard, colors, or ensign of the United States of America or
a picture or a representation of either, upon which shall be shown the colors, the stars and the
stripes, in any number of either thereof, or of any part or parts of either, by which the average
person seeing the same without deliberation may believe the same to represent the flag, colors,
standard, or ensign of the United States of America.
§ 4. Pledge of allegiance to the flag; manner of delivery
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag: “I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of
America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty
and justice for all.”, should be rendered by standing at attention facing the flag with the right
hand over the heart. When not in uniform men should remove any non-religious headdress with
their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform
should remain silent, face the flag, and render the military salute.
§ 5. Display and use of flag by civilians; codification of rules and customs; definition
The following codification of existing rules and customs pertaining to the display and use of the
flag of the United States of America is established for the use of such civilians or civilian groups
or organizations as may not be required to conform with regulations promulgated by one or more
executive departments of the Government of the United States. The flag of the United States for
the purpose of this chapter shall be defined according to sections 1 and 2 of this title and
Executive Order 10834 issued pursuant thereto.
§ 6. Time and occasions for display
(a) It is the universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on
stationary flagstaffs in the open. However, when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be
displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.
(b) The flag should be hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously.
(c) The flag should not be displayed on days when the weather is inclement, except when an all
weather flag is displayed.
(d) The flag should be displayed on all days, especially on New Year’s Day, January 1;
Inauguration Day, January 20; Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, third Monday in January;
Lincoln’s Birthday, February 12; Washington’s Birthday, third Monday in February; Easter
Sunday (variable); Mother’s Day, second Sunday in May; Armed Forces Day, third Saturday in
May; Memorial Day (half-staff until noon), the last Monday in May; Flag Day, June 14; Father’s
Day, third Sunday in June; Independence Day, July 4; National Korean War Veterans Armistice
Day, July 27; Labor Day, first Monday in September; Constitution Day, September 17;
Columbus Day, second Monday in October; Navy Day, October 27; Veterans Day, November
11; Thanksgiving Day, fourth Thursday in November; Christmas Day, December 25; and such
other days as may be proclaimed by the President of the United States; the birthdays of States
(date of admission); and on State holidays.
(e) The flag should be displayed daily on or near the main administration building of every
public institution.
(f) The flag should be displayed in or near every polling place on election days.
(g) The flag should be displayed during school days in or near every schoolhouse.
§ 7. Position and manner of display
The flag, when carried in a procession with another flag or flags, should be either on the
marching right; that is, the flag’s own right, or, if there is a line of other flags, in front of the
center of that line.
(a) The flag should not be displayed on a float in a parade except from a staff, or as provided in
subsection (i) of this section.
(b) The flag should not be draped over the hood, top, sides, or back of a vehicle or of a railroad
train or a boat. When the flag is displayed on a motorcar, the staff shall be fixed firmly to the
chassis or clamped to the right fender.
(c) No other flag or pennant should be placed above or, if on the same level, to the right of the
flag of the United States of America, except during church services conducted by naval chaplains
at sea, when the church pennant may be flown above the flag during church services for the
personnel of the Navy. No person shall display the flag of the United Nations or any other
national or international flag equal, above, or in a position of superior prominence or honor to, or
in place of, the flag of the United States at any place within the United States or any Territory or
possession thereof: Provided, That nothing in this section shall make unlawful the continuance of
the practice heretofore followed of displaying the flag of the United Nations in a position of
superior prominence or honor, and other national flags in positions of equal prominence or
honor, with that of the flag of the United States at the headquarters of the United Nations.
(d) The flag of the United States of America, when it is displayed with another flag against a
wall from crossed staffs, should be on the right, the flag’s own right, and its staff should be in
front of the staff of the other flag.
(e) The flag of the United States of America should be at the center and at the highest point of
the group when a number of flags of States or localities or pennants of societies are grouped and
displayed from staffs.
(f) When flags of States, cities, or localities, or pennants of societies are flown on the same
halyard with the flag of the United States, the latter should always be at the peak. When the flags
are flown from adjacent staffs, the flag of the United States should be hoisted first and lowered
last. No such flag or pennant may be placed above the flag of the United States or to the United
States flag’s right.
(g) When flags of two or more nations are displayed, they are to be flown from separate staffs of
the same height. The flags should be of approximately equal size. International usage forbids the
display of the flag of one nation above that of another nation in time of peace.
(h) When the flag of the United States is displayed from a staff projecting horizontally or at an
angle from the window sill, balcony, or front of a building, the union of the flag should be placed
at the peak of the staff unless the flag is at half-staff. When the flag is suspended over a sidewalk
from a rope extending from a house to a pole at the edge of the sidewalk, the flag should be
hoisted out, union first, from the building.
(i) When displayed either horizontally or vertically against a wall, the union should be uppermost
and to the flag’s own right, that is, to the observer’s left. When displayed in a window, the flag
should be displayed in the same way, with the union or blue field to the left of the observer in the
street.
(j) When the flag is displayed over the middle of the street, it should be suspended vertically
with the union to the north in an east and west street or to the east in a north and south street.
(k) When used on a speaker’s platform, the flag, if displayed flat, should be displayed above and
behind the speaker. When displayed from a staff in a church or public auditorium, the flag of the
United States of America should hold the position of superior prominence, in advance of the
audience, and in the position of honor at the clergyman’s or speaker’s right as he faces the
audience. Any other flag so displayed should be placed on the left of the clergyman or speaker or
to the right of the audience.
(l) The flag should form a distinctive feature of the ceremony of unveiling a statue or monument,
but it should never be used as the covering for the statue or monument.
(m) The flag, when flown at half-staff, should be first hoisted to the peak for an instant and then
lowered to the half-staff position. The flag should be again raised to the peak before it is lowered
for the day. On Memorial Day the flag should be displayed at half-staff until noon only, then
raised to the top of the staff. By order of the President, the flag shall be flown at half-staff upon
the death of principal figures of the United States Government and the Governor of a State,
territory, or possession, as a mark of respect to their memory. In the event of the death of other
officials or foreign dignitaries, the flag is to be displayed at half-staff according to Presidential
instructions or orders, or in accordance with recognized customs or practices not inconsistent
with law. In the event of the death of a present or former official of the government of any State,
territory, or possession of the United States or the death of a member of the Armed Forces from
any State, territory, or possession who dies while serving on active duty, the Governor of that
State, territory, or possession may proclaim that the National flag shall be flown at half-staff, and
the same authority is provided to the Mayor of the District of Columbia with respect to present or
former officials of the District of Columbia and members of the Armed Forces from the District
of Columbia. When the Governor of a State, territory, or possession, or the Mayor of the District
of Columbia, issues a proclamation under the preceding sentence that the National flag be flown
at half-staff in that State, territory, or possession or in the District of Columbia because of the
death of a member of the Armed Forces, the National flag flown at any Federal installation or
facility in the area covered by that proclamation shall be flown at half-staff consistent with that
proclamation. The flag shall be flown at half-staff 30 days from the death of the President or a
former President; 10 days from the day of death of the Vice President, the Chief Justice or a
retired Chief Justice of the United States, or the Speaker of the House of Representatives; from
the day of death until interment of an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, a Secretary of an
executive or military department, a former Vice President, or the Governor of a State, territory,
or possession; and on the day of death and the following day for a Member of Congress. The flag
shall be flown at half-staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day, unless that day is also Armed
Forces Day. As used in this subsection—
(1) the term “half-staff” means the position of the flag when it is one-half the distance between
the top and bottom of the staff;
(2) the term “executive or military department” means any agency listed under sections 101 and
102 of title 5, United States Code; and
(3) the term “Member of Congress” means a Senator, a Representative, a Delegate, or the
Resident Commissioner from Puerto Rico.
(n) When the flag is used to cover a casket, it should be so placed that the union is at the head
and over the left shoulder. The flag should not be lowered into the grave or allowed to touch the
ground.
(o) When the flag is suspended across a corridor or lobby in a building with only one main
entrance, it should be suspended vertically with the union of the flag to the observer’s left upon
entering. If the building has more than one main entrance, the flag should be suspended
vertically near the center of the corridor or lobby with the union to the north, when entrances are
to the east and west or to the east when entrances are to the north and south. If there are
entrances in more than two directions, the union should be to the east.
§ 8. Respect for flag
No disrespect should be shown to the flag of the United States of America; the flag should not be
dipped to any person or thing. Regimental colors, State flags, and organization or institutional
flags are to be dipped as a mark of honor.
(a) The flag should never be displayed with the union down, except as a signal of dire distress in
instances of extreme danger to life or property.
(b) The flag should never touch anything beneath it, such as the ground, the floor, water, or
merchandise.
(c) The flag should never be carried flat or horizontally, but always aloft and free.
(d) The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery. It should never be
festooned, drawn back, nor up, in folds, but always allowed to fall free. Bunting of blue, white,
and red, always arranged with the blue above, the white in the middle, and the red below, should
be used for covering a speaker’s desk, draping the front of the platform, and for decoration in
general.
(e) The flag should never be fastened, displayed, used, or stored in such a manner as to permit it
to be easily torn, soiled, or damaged in any way.
(f) The flag should never be used as a covering for a ceiling.
(g) The flag should never have placed upon it, nor on any part of it, nor attached to it any mark,
insignia, letter, word, figure, design, picture, or drawing of any nature.
(h) The flag should never be used as a receptacle for receiving, holding, carrying, or delivering
anything.
(i) The flag should never be used for advertising purposes in any manner whatsoever. It should
not be embroidered on such articles as cushions or handkerchiefs and the like, printed or
otherwise impressed on paper napkins or boxes or anything that is designed for temporary use
and discard. Advertising signs should not be fastened to a staff or halyard from which the flag is
flown.
(j) No part of the flag should ever be used as a costume or athletic uniform. However, a flag
patch may be affixed to the uniform of military personnel, firemen, policemen, and members of
patriotic organizations. The flag represents a living country and is itself considered a living thing.
Therefore, the lapel flag pin being a replica, should be worn on the left lapel near the heart.
(k) The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should
be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.
§ 9. Conduct during hoisting, lowering or passing of flag
During the ceremony of hoisting or lowering the flag or when the flag is passing in a parade or in
review, all persons present in uniform should render the military salute. Members of the Armed
Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute. All other
persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, or
if applicable, remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the
hand being over the heart. Citizens of other countries present should stand at attention. All such
conduct toward the flag in a moving column should be rendered at the moment the flag passes.
§ 10. Modification of rules and customs by President
Any rule or custom pertaining to the display of the flag of the United States of America, set forth
herein, may be altered, modified, or repealed, or additional rules with respect thereto may be
prescribed, by the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the United States, whenever he
deems it to be appropriate or desirable; and any such alteration or additional rule shall be set
forth in a proclamation.
Displaying the Flag Show Section Hide Section
PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION
1. When the flag is displayed over the middle of the street, it should be suspended
vertically with the union to the north in an east and west street or to the east in a north
and south street.
2. The flag of the United States of America, when it is displayed with another flag against a
wall from crossed staffs, should be on the right, the flag's own right [that means the
viewer's left --Webmaster], and its staff should be in front of the staff of the other flag.
3. The flag, when flown at half-staff, should be first hoisted to the peak for an instant and
then lowered to the half-staff position. The flag should be again raised to the peak
before it is lowered for the day. By "half-staff" is meant lowering the flag to one-half the
distance between the top and bottom of the staff. Crepe streamers may be affixed to
spear heads or flagstaffs in a parade only by order of the President of the United States.
4. When flags of States, cities, or localities, or pennants of societies are flown on the same
halyard with the flag of the United States, the latter should always be at the peak. When the
flags are flown from adjacent staffs, the flag of the United States should be hoisted first and
lowered last. No such flag or pennant may be placed above the flag of the United States or to
the right of the flag of the United States (the viewer's left). When the flag is half-masted, both
flags are half-masted, with the US flag at the mid-point and the other flag below.
5. When the flag is suspended over a sidewalk from a rope extending from a house to a
pole at the edge of the sidewalk, the flag should be hoisted out, union first, from the
building.
6. When the flag of the United States is displayed from a staff projecting horizontally or at an
angle from the window sill, balcony, or front of a building, the union of the flag should be
placed at the peak of the staff unless the flag is at half-staff.
7. When the flag is used to cover a casket, it should be so placed that the union is at
the head and over the left shoulder. The flag should not be lowered into the grave or
allowed to touch the ground.
8. When the flag is displayed in a manner other than by being flown from a staff, it
should be displayed flat, whether indoors or out. When displayed either
horizontally or vertically against a wall, the union should be uppermost and to the
flag's own right, that is, to the observer's left. When displayed in a window it
should be displayed in the same way, that is with the union or blue field to the left
of the observer in the street. When festoons, rosettes or drapings are desired, bunting of blue, white and
red should be used, but never the flag.
9. That the flag, when carried in a procession with another flag, or flags,
should be either on the marching right; that is, the flag's own right, or, if
there is a line of other flags, in front of the center of that line.
10. The flag of the United States of America should be at the center and at the highest point
of the group when a number of flags of States or localities or pennants of societies are
grouped and displayed from staffs.
11. When flags of two or more nations are displayed, they are to be flown from
separate staffs of the same height. The flags should be of approximately equal size.
International usage forbids the display of the flag of one nation above that of another
nation in time of peace. The order of precedence for flags generally is National flags
(US first, then others in alphabetical order in English), State (host state first, then others
in the order of admission) and territories (Washington DC, Puerto Rico, etc.), Military
(Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard), then other. Read more.
12. When displayed from a staff in a church or public auditorium on or off a podium,
the flag of the United States of America should hold the position of superior
prominence, in advance of the audience, and in the position of honor at the
clergyman's or speaker's right as he faces the audience. Any other flag so displayed
should be placed on the left of the clergyman or speaker (to the right of the audience).
Please note that the old guidelines differed from this updated and simplified one.
13. When the flag is displayed on a car, the staff shall be fixed firmly to the chassis or
clamped to the right fender.
14. When hung in a window, place the blue union in the upper left, as viewed from the
street.
Flag Code Violations in the News Show Section Hide Section
Also visit the American Flag Wall of Shame and the Flag in the News
Please note that this website is non-partisan and pictures here are only to highlight violations of the Flag
Code, as they are found posted by responsible news outlets.
Click pictures for enlargements.
October 20, 2010. In a video (at 1:30), Sarah Palin is seen signing a flag for a supporter. Flag Code: "The
flag should never have placed upon it, nor on any part of it, nor attached to it any mark, insignia, letter,
word, figure, design, picture, or drawing of any nature." Wach full video (from guardian.co.uk)
January 1, 2010. The Allstate Sugar Bowl opening ceremony featured Lady Antebellum. Behind them the
oversized American flag fell to the ground in front of a national audience. Two Flag Code violations were
committed by this ceremony: (Section 8b.) "The flag should never touch anything beneath it, such as the
ground." (Section 8c.) "The flag should never be carried flat or horizontally, but always aloft and free."
more
January 19, 2009, Baltimore, MD. Flags overprinted with the new President's image and name are
distributed to celebrate his inauguration. Section 8g of the Flag Code reads, "The flag should never have
placed upon it, nor on any part of it, nor attached to it any mark, insignia, letter, word, figure, design,
picture, or drawing of any nature." Photo credit: Baltimore Sun
June 13, 2008, Byron Brown, the mayor of Buffalo, ordered all flags at city buildings lowered to half-staff
in honor of news journalist Tim Russert (pictured). Section 7m authorizes the President, the Governor,
and the Mayor of the District of Columbia to half-staff the US flag in certain circumstances. Can the mayor
order the US flag to half-mast?
Reno, Nevada, October 2, 2007, the flagpole at a local bar displayed the Mexican flag above the US flag
on the same flagpole. Section 7g reads, "When flags of two or more nations are displayed, they are to be
flown from separate staffs of the same height. The flags should be of approximately equal size.
International usage forbids the display of the flag of one nation above that of another nation in time of
peace." Photo source: KRNV News 4
Can a foreign flag fly above the US flag?
Albania, June 10, 2007, the woman's flag is union out; the man is wearing flag shorts; his flag is touching
the ground. Section 7h reads, "the union of the flag should be placed at the peak of the staff." Section 8d
reads, "The flag should never be used as wearing apparel." Section 8b reads, "The flag should never
touch anything beneath it, such as the ground." Of course, the Flag Code doesn't apply in Albania. Photo
credit: Damir Sagolj/Reuters
September 11, 2006, President Bush and first lady Laura Bush stand on a carpet of the American flag at
Ground Zero in Manhattan, the site of the September 11, 2001 attack. Section 8b of the Flag Code reads,
" The flag should never touch anything beneath it, such as the ground..." Photo credit: Reuters/Jason Reed
April 2006, Latino protesters carry a US flag union down to protest pending federal legislation with
harsher immigration policies, in Costa Mesa, California. Section 8a. "The flag should never be displayed
with the union down, except as a signal of dire distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property."
Photo credit: AFP/Getty Images/David McNew
Is it okay to display the flag upside down in protest?
Super Bowl 2004, Janet Jackson's "costume malfunction" made international news; that same half-time
show featured the wearing of an American flag by performer Kid Rock. He later removed the flag poncho
and hurled it over his head. Section 8d. reads, "The flag should never be used as wearing apparel." Photo
credit: Reuters
In July 2003 President Bush autographed a small flag. This picture was circulated across the Internet
noting its violation of the Flag Code: "The flag should never have placed upon it, nor on any part of it, nor
attached to it any mark, insignia, letter, word, figure, design, picture, or drawing of any nature." Photo credit:
AP Photo/Charles Dharapak
What Is a Flag? Show Section Hide Section
According to the Flag Code, a flag is a flag or anything "by which the average person seeing the same
without deliberation may believe the same to represent the flag." According to the definition in the Flag
Code, these images are flags.
See: Are flags on T-shirts, ties, etc., really flags?
Jasper Johns flag [info]
animation experiment
Bank of America logo [more]
flag quilt
child's drawing
flag car
flag stamp [discussion]
flag Christmas tree
dog chew toy
Flagpoles, Flag Sizes, Flag Proportions Show Section Hide Section
The usual size of a flag used at home is 3'x5'. A casket flag is 9-1/2'x5'. The table below shows the
appropriate size flag to fly on flagpoles of several heights.
Home
Use
Public display (not home-use)
flagpole flag flagpole
flag
flagpole
flag
15'
3'x5' 20'
4'x6'
50'
8x12'-10x15'
20'
3'x5' 25'
5'x8'
60'-65'
10'x15'-10'x19'
25'
4'x6' 30'-35'
6'x10'
70'-80'
10'x19'-12'x18'
40'-45'
6'x10-8'x12' 90'-100' 20'x38'-30'x50
Flag Proportions
According to Executive Order 10834, official flags (not personal flags) must meet these standards.
Standard proportions
A Hoist (width) of flag
1.0
B Fly (length) of flag
1.9
C Hoist (width) of Union 0.5385 (7/13)
D Fly (length) of Union
0.76
E
0.054
F
0.054
G
0.063
H
0.063
K Diameter of star
0.0616
L Width of stripe
0.0769 (1/13)
American Flag Wall of Shame
This page contains ordinary instances where the Flag is being shown disrespect or where the Flag Code is
being violated, either thoughtlessly or carelessly. This page is not for politically motivated violations. And it
is not for pictures of tattered flags on display (which are unfortunately all too common); however if the
tattered display is extraordinary in its severity, location or other notable way, then we will consider posting
it. If you have a picture you would like to share, email us the picture with a brief description, and how you
want to be credited. We will add the relevant section of the Flag Code. Posting of pictures is at our
discretion.
Also see: Violations in the News
How much more disrespectful can FOX News get...???
Submitted by R.L., Pagosa Springs, CO
See the complete FOX News slide show of American Flag bathing suits
"The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery." (Flag Code, Section 8d)
Living on the Oregon Coast doesn't expose me to much in the way of franchise operations . . . so, when a
friend and I were visiting in Tucson, a military city, we were shocked and insulted to see this McDonald's,
near Craycroft Road, displaying the American flag, with their logo flag underneath, on the same pole ...
clearly a violation of the Flag Code. Then, upon our return through Portland, Oregon, we stopped at the
Tanasbourne Shopping Center on 185th Street, and discovered the same violation at their McDonald's, an
American flag, with the McDonald's logo flag underneath, on the same pole. Perhaps this is a corporate
policy, and one which needs to be halted. Please help spread the word.
Submitted by Sherry L. Vachio
"Advertising signs should not be fastened to a staff or halyard from which the flag is flown." (Flag Code, Section 8i)
This just isn't right!
Submitted by C.J.
"The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery." (Flag Code, Section 8d)
This flag in Morgan Hill, CA has so deteriorated that it’s difficult to even tell it’s an American Flag! After
pointing it out to several other customers, we all went in and asked the owner, who was in at that time, to
at the very least take the flag down due to its condition. He said he would, but a month later it is still sadly
flying.
Submitted by T. Bischof
"The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a
dignified way, preferably by burning." (Flag Code, Section 8k)
Update: The flag was removed the day after this posting.
I took this picture at a Joan Shepp store in midtown Manhattan.
Submitted by N.P., Philadelphia, PA
"The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery." (Flag Code, Section 8d)
Colorado Motor Vehicles Italian-American plate is wrong. The American and Italian flags are reversed.
Submitted by Bob Weber, Centennial, CO
"The flag of the United States of America, when it is displayed with another flag against a wall from crossed staffs,
should be on ... the flag's own right [viewer's left -webmaster], and its staff should be in front of the staff of the other
flag." (Flag Code, Section 7d)
Hillsboro installs flag-painted fake fire hydrant as "tribute" to deceased K-9. No disrespect intended...they
say.
Submitted by Carl Collins
"The flag of the United States is any flag of the United States, or any part thereof, made of any substance, of any
size, accurate or not, that is recognized as a flag by the reasonable observer." (Flag Code, Section 3)
"No disrespect should be shown to the flag of the United States of America." (Flag Code, Section 8)
"The flag should never be used as a receptacle for receiving, holding, carrying, or delivering anything." (Flag Code,
Section 8h)
The Fourth of July newspaper arrived on my doorstep with the advertising sticker affixed upon the image
of the United States Flag. This happened city (if not area) wide according to people that I have talked to. I
have received a personal apology from the publisher, and the paper printed three letters concerning the
advertising sticker; however the Virginian-Pilot has made no public apology for their lack of respect. I am
sure the sticker was affixed at some point in the printing process, but one would think that someone,
sometime before the paper was distributed would have caught the foul-up.
Submitted by J.H. Lewis, Norfolk, VA
"The flag should never have placed upon it, nor on any part of it, nor attached to it any mark, insignia, letter, word,
figure, design, picture, or drawing of any nature." (Flag Code, Section 8g)
I found this in a middle school, while I was judging a high school debate tournament.
Karl Ortmeyer
"Bunting of blue, white, and red ... should be used for covering a speaker's desk, draping the front of the platform,
and for decoration in general. (Flag Code, Section 8d)
1997 Bowman International Chrome Refractors Baseball Card Set. "Never really thought about these
cards until recently but they’ve got a couple of violations."
"I don’t need any credit for this and would prefer to remain an anonymous contributor."
"When displayed either horizontally or vertically against a wall, the union should be uppermost and to the flag's
own right, that is, to the observer's left. When displayed in a window, the flag should be displayed in the same way,
with the union or blue field to the left of the observer in the street." (Flag Code, Section 7i)
Seems like even in the birthplace of U.S. History, not 100 yards from the location of the "shot heard
round the world", the local Historic Society still doesn't know how to hang the flag.
Submitted the 4th of July, 2010, by "the faithful citizens of Lexington MA."
"When displayed either horizontally or vertically against a wall, the union should be uppermost and to the flag's
own right, that is, to the observer's left. When displayed in a window, the flag should be displayed in the same way,
with the union or blue field to the left of the observer in the street." (Flag Code, Section 7i)
Here's one for you. The stars and stripes are on the wrong side. They are on the right and should be on the
left, as you enter. I think anyone will recognize the office [California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger webmaster], but it took a Chinese national to point out to the California Highway Patrol officers
"guarding" the door. No wonder the place is such a mess. Taken December 17, 2008, office of the
Governor of California.
Submitted by Andrew Bowden
"No other flag or pennant should be placed ... to the right of the flag of the United States of America. [The flag's
own right]" (Flag Code, Section 7c)
Attached is a copy of U.S. Flag paper tissues.
Submitted by Tim, Alpharetta, GA
"It should not ... printed or otherwise impressed on ... anything that is designed for temporary use and discard."
(Flag Code, Section 8i)
"No disrespect should be shown to the flag of the United States of America." (Flag Code, Section 8)
"The flag should never be used as a receptacle for receiving, holding, carrying, or delivering anything." (Flag Code,
Section 8h)
I just saw this. It is called the "Flag of Honor and Heroes" and contains in small type, the names of the
victims of September 11. It seems patriotic, but you shouldn't write on the flag, I was taught.
JS, Kansas
"The flag should never have placed upon it, nor on any part of it, nor attached to it any mark, insignia, letter, word,
figure, design, picture, or drawing of any nature." (Flag Code, Section 8g)
The flag should not to be used as a "skin" on a disposable camera. This was found on sale at Sam's Club.
Submitted by W.C., Vermont
"The flag should never have placed upon it, nor on any part of it, nor attached to it any mark, insignia, letter, word,
figure, design, picture, or drawing of any nature." (Flag Code, Section 8g)
"The flag should never be used as a receptacle for receiving, holding, carrying, or delivering anything." (Flag Code,
Section 8h)
This is on a business in Dallas TX, where the owner claims to be a former Marine. I have asked him on
several occasions to change it.
Paul Hakes
"The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a
dignified way, preferably by burning." (Flag Code, Section 8k)
Update: The flag was removed shortly after the posting of this picture here.
A golf club!? "When on the course of human events..."
Submitted by Arlen, Long Island City, New York
"The flag should not be ... allowed to touch the ground." (Flag Code, Section 7n)
"No disrespect should be shown to the flag of the United States of America." (Flag Code, Section 8)
What's good for business is good for America! Well, the flag should not be used as decoration on a credit
card, no matter how American that seems!
A. Clinton, Provo, Utah
"The flag should never be used for advertising purposes in any manner whatsoever." (Flag Code, Section 8i)
"The flag should never have placed upon it, nor on any part of it, nor attached to it any mark, insignia, letter, word,
figure, design, picture, or drawing of any nature." (Flag Code, Section 8g)
General Questions
My flag touched the ground. Do I need to destroy it?
No. You should, of course, try to avoid having the flag touch the ground. But if it does, you should correct the
situation immediately. If the flag has been dirtied, you should clean it by hand with a mild soap solution and dry it
well before returning it to use.
My flag is old and ready to be retired. What should I do?
Section 8k of the Flag Code states, "The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for
display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning." We recommend that you contact your local
VFW Chapter and ask them for help properly disposing of your flag. And be sure to consider providing a small
donation to them for their assistance. Or you can contact your local Elks Lodge (who created the idea of Flag Day,
established officially by President Truman, himself a member of the Elks), the American Legion, or the Knights of
Columbus. Some Boy Scout and Girl Scout troups also can provide this service.
See Flag Retirement Service and Ceremony
In earlier times, most American flags were made of cotton or wool. But today's flags are often nylon or other
petroleum-based materials. Burning them can release hazardous gases, including formaldehydes, ammonia, carbon
monoxide, and traces of hydrogen cyanide into the air. In some states, it is even illegal to burn nylon, so adhering
to the Flag Code puts you in direct violation of the law. Burning is preferred for cotton and wool flags. Nylon and
flags made from other synthetics can be buried.
Modern flag retirement ceremonies, often held annually on Flag Day, sometimes feature the symbolic burning of a
single flag (cotton or wool) and the burial of the others. This is both safe and respectful.
American Flag Recycling: A group advocating recycling nylon flags
Are there recent changes to the Flag Code or flag rules?

Public Law No: 111-41 modifies the Flag Code to encourage the display of the flag of the United States

on National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day.
Public Law No. 110-239 modifies the Flag Code to encourage the display of the flag of the United States
on Father's Day.
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Public Law No. 110-181 changes section 9 of title 4, permitting members of the Armed Forces and
veterans who are present but not in uniform to render the military salute. (Note that this change was
opposed by the American Legion).
Public Law No. 110-41 authorizing Governors to issue proclamations to half-staff the flag upon the
death of a member (from that state) of the Armed Forces who dies while serving on active duty.
The following legislation is pending
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Genuine American Flag Act: To prohibit the importation for sale of foreign-made flags of the United
States of America. Ref: GovTrack.us
Fallen Heroes Flag Act of 2010: To provide Capitol-flown flags to the immediate family of fire fighters,
law enforcement officers, emergency medical technicians, and other rescue workers who are killed in the
line of duty. Ref: GovTrack.us
Law Enforcement Officers Flag Memorial Act: To provide Capitol-flown flags to the families of
deceased law enforcement officers. Ref: GovTrack.us
Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States authorizing the Congress and
the States to prohibit the act of desecration of the flag of the United States and to set criminal
penalties for that act. Ref: GovTrack.us

To amend title 36, United States Code, to designate the Honor and Remember Flag created by
Honor and Remember, Inc., as an official symbol to recognize and honor members of the Armed
Forces who died in the line of duty, and for other purposes. Ref: GovTrack.us
Are there penalties for violating the Flag Code?
No. For private citizens, the Flag Code serves as a guide to be followed on a purely voluntary basis to insure
proper respect for the flag. The Supreme Court has ruled that politically motivated violations of the Flag Code are
protected by the First Amendment.
The Flag Code has no provision for enforcement. No fines, no penalties. There is nothing law enforcement can do
when the Flag Code is broken.
See Title 18
Are flags on T-shirts, ties, etc., really flags?
Yes. According to the Flag Code, a flag is anything "by which the average person seeing the same without
deliberation may believe the same to represent the flag."
The words "flag, standard, colors, or ensign", as used herein, shall include any flag, standard, colors, ensign, or
any picture or representation of either, or of any part or parts of either, made of any substance or represented on
any substance, of any size evidently purporting to be either of said flag, standard, colors, or ensign of the United
States of America or a picture or a representation of either, upon which shall be shown the colors, the stars and
the stripes, in any number of either thereof, or of any part or parts of either, by which the average person seeing
the same without deliberation may believe the same to represent the flag, colors, standard, or ensign of the United
States of America.
Source: Flag Code, Section 3
Therefore, a flag includes any representation of it of any substance, with stars and stripes of any number. This
would include T-shirts and ties.
Other references in the Flag Code relevant to this question are:
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The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery. (section 8d)
It should not be embroidered on such articles as cushions or handkerchiefs and the like (section 8i)
[It should not be] printed or otherwise impressed on paper napkins or boxes (section 8i)
The flag should never have placed upon it, nor on any part of it, nor attached to it any mark, insignia,
letter, word, figure, design, picture, or drawing of any nature. (section 8g)
No part of the flag should ever be used as a costume or athletic uniform. (section 8j)
The Flag Code states that the flag should never be worn. (Section 8d): "The flag should never be used
as wearing apparel."
How should I dispose of T-shirts with pictures of the flag on them?
Because the T-shirt is, according to the Flag Code, indeed a flag, it leads to the somewhat absurd conclusion that it
needs to be retired in a dignified way.
See My flag is old and ready to be retired. What should I do?
Where do you wear a lapel flag pin?
Lapel flag pins were in the news during President Obama's campaign in 2008.
Whereas a flag patch is restricted to military, emergency, and patriotic organizations; it appears, the lapel flag pin
is not restricted. Section 8j of the Flag Code reads:
No part of the flag should ever be used as a costume or athletic uniform. However, a flag patch may be affixed to
the uniform of military personnel, firemen, policemen, and members of patriotic organizations. The flag represents
a living country and is itself considered a living thing. Therefore, the lapel flag pin being a replica, should be worn
on the left lapel near the heart.
Should the American flag be taken down during a rain storm?
Most flags sold nowadays are all-weather flags (refer to the packaging). These are permitted to fly during
inclement weather, according to the Flag Code.
The flag should not be displayed on days when the weather is inclement, except when an all-weather flag is
displayed. (Section 6-c.)
Is it proper to wash or mend a flag?
Yes. If a flag is torn, it can be repaired, preferably by a professional or someone skilled in mending. If it is dirty, it
can be washed, preferably by hand with a mild soap. If it is faded or tattered beyond repair, or dirty beyond
cleaning, then it is time to replace the flag.
Any flag that is tattered on the fly end can be repaired if the stripes (cut off where the tatter begins) are still longer
than the field. If you fold the flag in half and the field overlaps the frayed fly, then it is time for a new flag.
Many dry cleaners will clean your flag at no cost. Ask your local cleaner their policy on cleaning flags.
See My flag is old and ready to be retired
Can I fly my flag at home 24 hours a day?
Yes, provided it is "properly illuminated."
Section 6a: "It is the universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on
stationary flagstaffs in the open. However, when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed twenty-four
hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness."
The Flag Code offers no additional guidance on what "properly illuminated" means. We interpret it to mean that
there should be either a light directly upon the flag or that there be sufficient local lighting to make the flag visible
at night.
If you cannot "properly illuminate" your flag, we recommend that you retire it at sunset, as the Flag Rules specify.
The American Legion defines proper illumination as a "light specifically placed to illuminate the flag (preferred) or
having a light source sufficient to illuminate the flag so it is recognizable as such by the casual observer."
Have the "properly illuminated" rules been relaxed since 9/11 or for energy
conservation?
No. There has been no revision of the Flag Code and there has been no Presidential Proclamation changing the
guidelines for respectful display of the flag at night. Section 6a: "when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be
displayed twenty-four hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness."
Is it appropriate to fly a flag that has fewer than 50 stars?
Yes. Official United States flags are always considered living, active flags. From the Betsy Ross flag to the present
50-star flag, any flag that at some time was the official flag is still considered a living flag to be accorded all due
respect.
Should I fly my flag today?
Section 6d of the Flag Code states:
The flag should be displayed on all
days, especially on:
Half-Staff the Flag on these Days:
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New Year's Day, Jan. 1
Inauguration Day, Jan. 20
Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday, 3rd
Monday in Jan.
Lincoln's Birthday, Feb. 12
Washington's Birthday, 3rd Monday
in Feb.
Easter Sunday (variable)
Mother's Day, 2nd Sunday in May
Armed Forces Day, 3rd Saturday in
May
Memorial Day, last Monday in May,
(half-staff until noon)
Flag Day, June 14
Father's Day, 3rd Sunday in June
Independence Day, July 4
National Korean War Veterans
Armistice Day, July 27
Labor Day, 1st Monday in Sept.
Constitution Day, Sept. 17
Columbus Day, 2nd Monday in Oct.
Navy Day, Oct. 27
Veterans Day, Nov. 11
Thanksgiving Day, 4th Thursday in
Nov.
Christmas Day, Dec. 25
and such other days as may be
proclaimed by the President of the
United States
the birthdays of States (date of
admission)
and on State holidays






May 15 — Peace Officers Memorial Day: halfstaff from sunrise to sunset
Last Monday in May — Memorial Day: the flag
should be displayed at half-staff until noon
September 11 — Patriot Day: half-staff from
sunrise to sunset
First Sunday in October — Start of Fire
Prevention Week: half-staff from sunrise to
sunset. See Public Law 107-51
December 7 — National Pearl Harbor
Remembrance Day: half-staff from sunrise to
sunset
Upon reliable information that a past or
present President, Vice-President, Chief Justice,
or Speaker of the House has died
Upon Presidential proclamation or
proclamation from your state's governor
» See Should I fly my flag at half-staff today?
What music is played raising and lowering the flag?
The traditional bugle call for raising the flag is Reveille. On the first note, you begin to briskly raise the flag, which
should take about 20 seconds.
The traditional bugle call for U.S. civilians lowering the flag is "Taps." In the military, they play "Retreat," then a
gun is fired (if available), followed by playing the national anthem or "To The Color" (either live or recorded) and
the flag is slowly lowered, completed with the final note of music. The Army plays "Taps" at funerals and as the last
call of the night.
"Taps" was composed by the Union Army's Brigadier General Daniel Butterfield while in camp at Harrison's Landing,
Virginia, in 1862, to replace the more formal "Tattoo" (lights out). It is called "Taps" because it was often tapped
out on a drum in the absence of a bugler. It was used by both Northern and Southern camps. The call was officially
adopted by the U.S. Army in 1874.
Sources: U.S. Army Bands | Military Analysis Network | Army Study Guide
What are the rules for color guards?
The Flag Code does not provide much guidance on this question. We recommend you refer to the comprehensive
Marine Corps Color Guard Manual [pdf]
Is displaying the flag horizontally, as before a football game, a violation?
Yes. It is contrary to the Flag Code, Section 8c, which reads:
"The flag should never be carried flat or horizontally, but always aloft and free."
Can the American flag be used as the background for a bulletin board display with
notices tacked on it?
No. According to the Flag Code, Section 8g: "The flag should never have placed upon it, nor on any part of it, nor
attached to it any mark, insignia, letter, word, figure, design, picture, or drawing of any nature." Section 8: "No
disrespect should be shown to the flag of the United States of America." Section 8j: "The flag represents a living
country and is itself considered a living thing."
What are the rules for homeowners/condo associations?
There is a law protecting your right to fly the US flag.
A condominium association, cooperative association, or residential real estate management association may not
adopt or enforce any policy, or enter into any agreement, that would restrict or prevent a member of the
association from displaying the flag of the United States on residential property within the association with respect
to which such member has a separate ownership interest or a right to exclusive possession or use. Read HR42.

In the News: Homeowner at odds with homeowners association [October 26, 2006]

In the News: National Flag Law Mirrors Community Associations Institute Public Policy [July 24, 2006]
Is it okay to use flag napkins or flag paper plates?
No. Section 8i of the Flag Code reads: "It should not be ... printed or otherwise impressed on paper napkins or
boxes or anything that is designed for temporary use and discard."
This picture posted by Kraftfoods as a Fourth of July recommendation. They also provide a recipe for a flag cake.
Is a cake decorated with a flag drawn with icing a violation of the Flag Code?
There is nothing specific in the Flag Code regarding the use of the US flag as food. It does say:


"No disrespect should be shown to the flag of the United States of America."
"... It should not be ... printed or otherwise impressed on ... anything that is designed for temporary use
and discard."
The icing on a cake would generally be eaten, digested, and "discarded" in a most disrespectful way. We suggest
that it is an inappropriate display of the flag.
Is it okay for an advertisement to use the flag?
No. Section 8i of the Flag Code reads, "The flag should never be used for advertising purposes in any manner
whatsoever." The earliest drafts of the Flag Code were in response to the use of the flag in advertisements and on
packaging.
W.B. Mason logo
Ford TV ad
Krazy Eddie's TV ad
What does the gold fringe on the flag represent?
Gold fringe can be found on ceremonial flags used indoors and for outdoor ceremonies. The fringe is considered
completely within the guidelines of proper flag etiquette. There is nothing in the Flag Code about the fringe being
for federal government flags only. The Internet contains many sites that claim that the fringe indicates martial law
or that the Constitution does not apply in that area. These are entirely unfounded (usually citing Executive Order
10834 and inventing text that is not part of the order) and should be dismissed as urban legends. Others ascribe
meanings of spiritual authority. Gold fringes on flags goes back long before the United States. Flags in ancient
India had gold fringe, as did those in France, England, and throughout Europe.
How can I get a flag that has flown over the Capitol?
Constituents may arrange to purchase flags that have been flown over the Capitol by getting in touch with their
Senators or Representative. A certificate signed by the Architect of the Capitol accompanies each flag. Flags are
available for purchase in sizes of 3'x5' or 5'x8' in fabrics of cotton and nylon.
Can I have people sign my flag?
No. You should never sign the flag directly on it. If your flag has a canvas strip that holds the grommets, it is
acceptable to have everyone sign along that canvas strip. Or, you can have everyone sign a separate document
that can then be framed and displayed with the flag.
I am thinking of getting a flag tattoo. Is it okay?
There is nothing in the Flag Code about tattoos. The question is one of respect for the flag. In this case one
person's respect is another's disrespect, and we advise against a flag tattoo. Perhaps an American eagle would look
good?
Is Texas's the only state flag allowed to fly at the same height as the US flag?
No. This is an urban legend. All state flags may fly at the same height as the U.S. flag. The U.S. flag must be on its
right (the viewer's left), however. Texas's laws are consistent with those of the other states.
See Texas flag code.
Does the ball ornament atop a flagpole contain a razor, lighter, and flare?
No. This is just an urban legend. One explanation is that the myth started during the Cold War and that the objects
were to be used to destroy the flag in the event of a Soviet invasion. Of course, the ball ornament predates the
Cold War by many years.
Where does the flag fly 24 hours a day?
South Pole and the moon
It flies 24 hours a day at thousands and thousands of locations. The flag code states:
Section 6a: "when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed twenty-four hours a day if properly
illuminated during the hours of darkness."
Notably, it flies 24 hours a day on the moon and at the South Pole.
But, there is an elite group where, by law or executive order, it is to fly 24 hours a day:

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, Baltimore, Maryland
Presidential Proclamation No. 2795, July 2, 1948.

Flag House Square, Albemarle and Pratt Streets, Baltimore Maryland
Public Law 83-319, approved March 26, 1954.

United States Marine Corps Memorial (Iwo Jima), Arlington, Virginia
Presidential Proclamation No. 3418, June 12, 1961.

On the Green of the Town of Lexington, Massachusetts
Public Law 89-335, approved November 8, 1965.

The White House, Washington, DC.
Presidential Proclamation No. 4000, September 4, 1970.
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Washington Monument, Washington, DC.
Presidential Proclamation No. 4064, July 6, 1971, effective July 4, 1971.

Fifty flags of the United States are displayed at the Washington Monument continuously. United States
Customs Ports of Entry which are continually open
Presidential Proclamation No. 413 1, May 5, 1972.

Grounds of the National Memorial Arch in Valley Forge State Park, Valley Forge, Pennsylvania
Public Law 94-53, approved July 4,1975.
When children paint the American flag, is that against the Flag rules and regulations?
Respectfully featuring the American flag in artwork is a wonderful thing and should be encouraged. We would hope
that the artwork is preserved and displayed proudly by the young artists and their families.
Isn't the American flag stamp in violation of the flag rules?
This question has been asked by dozens of visitors to this page. The answer appears to be yes. Section 8e. of the
Flag Code reads, "The flag should never be ... used ... in such a manner as to permit it to be easily torn, soiled, or
damaged in any way." Section 8g. reads, "The flag should never have placed upon it, nor on any part of it, nor
attached to it any mark ... of any nature." 8i. reads, "[The flag] should not be printed or otherwise impressed on ...
anything that is designed for temporary use and discard."
At the beginning of a scout meeting, when the Flag is brought into the room isn't it
proper to salute as it is marched to the front and placed in its stand?
Section 9 states: "During the ceremony of hoisting or lowering the flag or when the flag is passing in a parade or in
review, all persons present in uniform should render the military salute. Members of the Armed Forces and
veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute. All other persons present should face
the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, or if applicable, remove their headdress with
their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Citizens of other countries present
should stand at attention. All such conduct toward the flag in a moving column should be rendered at the moment
the flag passes."
What state has never been under a foreign flag?
Although Idaho is the common answer to this popular trivia question, it was part of the Oregon Country, claimed
by both the United States and Great Britain until the United States gained undisputed jurisdiction in 1846.
Therefore the correct answer is "none."
I am a printer. What PMS colors are proper for the flag?
In the Pantone system the colors are: Blue PMS 281 and Red PMS 193. The RGB colors are Dark red (#BF0A30),
White (#FFFFFF), and Navy (#002868).
Saluting the flag by citizens, those in uniform, and non-citizens?
According to the Flag Code, Americans should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart.
When not in uniform men should remove any non-religious headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left
shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should remain silent, face the flag, and render the
military salute. Those who are not U.S. citizens should stand at attention.
Public Law No: 110-181 (Sec. 594) "Allows members and veterans who are present but not in uniform during the
hoisting, lowering, or passing of the flag to render the military salute."
When was the Flag Code established?
The American Legion has been promoting flag etiquette since its founding in 1919. The Veterans of Foreign Wars
has long advocated proper respect for the flag. In 1942, the Flag Code was established by Congress. It has been
periodically updated.
Adoption of State Flag Desecration Statutes — By the late 1800's an organized flag protection movement was born
in reaction to perceived commercial and political misuse of the flag. After supporters failed to obtain federal
legislation, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and South Dakota became the first States to adopt flag desecration statutes. By
1932, all of the States had adopted flag desecration laws.
In general, these State laws outlawed:
i.
ii.
iii.
placing any kind of marking on the flag, whether for commercial, political, or other purposes;
using the flag in any form of advertising; and
publicly mutilating, trampling, defacing, defiling, defying or casting contempt, either by words or by act,
upon the flag.
Under the model flag desecration law, the term "flag" was defined to include any flag, standard, ensign, or color, or
any representation of such made of any substance whatsoever and of any size that evidently purported to be said
flag or a picture or representation thereof, upon which shall be shown the colors, the stars and stripes in any
number, or by which the person seeing the same without deliberation may believe the same to represent the flag
of the U.S.
What do the colors red, white, and blue of the American flag symbolize?
The Continental Congress left no record to show why it chose the colors. However, in 1782, the Congress of the
Confederation chose these same colors for the Great Seal of the United States and listed their meaning as follows:
white to mean purity and innocence, red for valor and hardiness, and blue for vigilance, perseverance, and justice.
According to legend, George Washington interpreted the elements of the flag this way: the stars were taken from
the sky, the red from the British colors, and the white stripes signified the secession from the home country.
However, there is no official designation or meaning for the colors of the flag.
Is it appropriate to use mints wrapped in a flag print wrapper at a banquet?
The flag is not a decoration, it is the symbol of a living nation. It is not to be trivialized by well-meaning but
thoughtless uses, such as being used as mint wrappers.
What does it mean if the flag is not flying at the White House?
An urban legend states that it only flies at the White House when the President is in town. According to Lonnie
Hovey, Director of Preservation of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, "Unlike other countries where the flag
flying or not flying signifies the monarch or president is in the residence, the American flag is always flying on top
of the White House whether or not the President and First Family are at home."
Why is the flag sometimes called the colors?
In formal and military contexts, the American flag is called different things depending on where or how it is
displayed. For example, it is called an ensign when it is displayed on a vessel. It is called "Colors" when it is carried
by foot, as by the infantry. It is called "Standard" when it is displayed on a car or an aircraft, and by the cavalry.
Has the Congress always said the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of each day?
No. That is relatively recent. The House began doing so in 1988. The Senate since 1999.
In a recent Knights of Columbus ceremony, before the colors were retired, a "cap" was
placed on the Eagle at the top of the flag. Where does this originate?
Detail of US Army Seal. Click for enlargement of full seal.
It is a Phrygian cap or Liberty cap. In ancient Rome, it was given to a slave upon manumission as a sign of his
freedom. In the Revolutionary era, the red Phrygian cap evolved into a symbol of freedom, in America, France, and
elsewhere. The picture of Liberty on early silver dollars shows her wearing a Phrygian cap and today it is seen on
the seal of the US Army (see picture). Also, those fans of cartoons will recognize it as the headgear worn by
Smurfs.
Why do we stand and put our right hand on our hearts when we say the pledge of
allegiance? And where did this tradition originate?
The original Bellamy salute, first described in 1892 by Francis Bellamy, who authored the original Pledge, began
with a military salute, and after reciting the words "to the flag," the arm was extended toward the flag, palm-down.
At a signal from the Principal the pupils, in ordered ranks, hands to the side, face the Flag. Another signal is given;
every pupil gives the flag the military salute — right hand lifted, palm downward, to a line with the forehead and
close to it. Standing thus, all repeat together, slowly, "I pledge allegiance to my Flag and the Republic for which it
stands; one Nation indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all." At the words, "to my Flag," the right hand is
extended gracefully, palm upward, toward the Flag, and remains in this gesture till the end of the affirmation;
whereupon all hands immediately drop to the side.
The Youth's Companion, 1892
Shortly thereafter, the pledge was begun with the right hand over the heart, and after reciting "to the Flag," the
arm was extended toward the Flag, palm-down.
In World War II, the salute too much resembled the Nazi salute, so it was changed to keep the right hand over the
heart throughout.
Is there a timeline of flag desecration issues?
Yes, we have posted a Timeline of Flag Desecration Issues here.
Do I have to fold my flag in the triangular fold for storage between use?
No, for storage purposes, you may use the ordinary rectangular fold and, perhaps, place your flag in a plastic bag.
If the flag is affixed to a staff, you may roll the flag around the staff for storage. The triangular fold is not required,
but is traditional for display of the flag, often placed in a rectangular wooden display box. Instructions for the
triangular fold as provided on this page. Before folding the flag, always be sure it is dry and clean.
Any valued flag may be displayed in the triangular box. It is not exclusively for display of funeral flags. For
example, if you were to get a flag that flew over the White House, you could display that in the triangular box.
In the triangular fold, how many stars should be showing? What do they represent?
The writer of this question continued, "I was told that 13 stars should be shown on a field of blue representing the
thirteen original colonies and that the three sides of the flag represent the three branches of our goverment."
The number of stars showing depends on many factors. Rarely have I actually seen 13 stars showing. However,
when it happens, it is simply a wonderful coincidence. In any case, your interpretation is certainly wonderful.
According to the SAR, the triangular shape is representative of the tri-corner hat worn by the Patriots of the
American Revolution.
What is the meaning of the folds in a flag-folding ceremony?
There is no reference to meaning of the folds in the Flag Code.
There are several available flag-folding ceremonies you can use.

In the News: VA Clarifies Policy on Flag-Folding Recitations [October 30, 2007]

In the News: Furor After Flag-Folding Ceremony Pulled From Cemeteries [October 30, 2007]
Are flags taxed?
Sales tax laws differ state to state. You need to check with your own state's tax code (if it's online) or with a tax
attorney for guidance.
Wisconsin is one example of a state with an exemption, but it does get a little tricky. Here is how it reads:
An exemption from Wisconsin sales and use tax is created for the sale of, and the storage, use, or other
consumption of, the U.S. flag and the Wisconsin state flag.
A flag, for purposes of this exemption, is considered to include the staff to which the flag is permanently mounted
when sold by the retailer. However, if a flag is sold together with other tangible personal property, such as a pole
to which the flag may be attached and unattached, and mounting brackets, only that portion of the selling price
attributable to the flag is exempt from Wisconsin sales and use tax.
Displaying the Flag
Where should the flag be mounted as it relates to the front of a house?
It is traditionally flown either to the right or the left of the front door. It can be on either side. When there is a
choice, find a position of prominence. Sometimes that is the left of the door, sometimes the right, sometimes away
from the door, but centered on the house (when you have a porch, for example). Use your best judgment to find a
nice position for the flag. However, if you fly a second flag, then the US flag must be on the viewer's left of the
other flag, as you approach the house.
We are flying the US flag, our state flag, and our company flag on side-to-side poles.
What order should they be in?
Facing the display, from left to right: US flag, state flag, company flag. If you are flying them on two poles, place
the US flag on the leftmost pole, and the state flag over the company flag on the right pole (check your state Flag
Code to be sure this is acceptable). You may not fly a company flag on the same pole as the US flag.
See complete order of precedence below
We are flying the US flag, our state flag, and the POW/MIA flag on side-to-side poles.
What order should they be in?
Normally you would fly the POW/MIA flag beneath the US flag. However, if you need to fly it on its own staff, a
GSA directive for federal displays states, "It is generally flown immediately below or adjacent to the flag of the
United States as second in order of precedence." [Ref: Bulletin: POW/MIA Flag Display]. Military protocol states
that it would follow the others.
Facing the display, from left to right: US flag, POW/MIA, state flag. If you are flying them on two poles, place the
US flag over the POW/MIA flag on the leftmost pole, and the state flag on the right pole.
Title 36, Section 902
See complete order of precedence below
Doesn't the US flag fly on the tall center pole?
Yes. When the three poles are the same height, the priority is left to right. When the center pole is taller, then the
position of prominence is the center pole, then the left, then the right.
See complete order of precedence below
We have the US flag, a Canadian flag, and our state flag.
The correct order is US, then other nationality (always flown at the same height as the US flag), and then state
flag.
Section 7g of the Flag Code states: "When flags of two or more nations are displayed, they are to be flown from
separate staffs of the same height. The flags should be of approximately equal size. International usage forbids the
display of the flag of one nation above that of another nation in time of peace."
See complete order of precedence
How do I display the US flag on a ship's signal mast, with a gaff, when on land?
There are several opinions on this question. Oftentimes at marinas and yacht clubs, for example, a ship's signal
mast is displayed on land. There is often discussion regarding the appropriate display of the U.S. flag. Should it
match what is done at sea or should it be in compliance with the Flag Code, which does speak to displays at sea in
Section 7-c? The gaff is the diagonal that projects aft from the crosstree.
This is the convention at sea, with
the U.S. flag on the gaff, with the
club burgee at the peak.
This display is consistent
with the U.S. Flag Code.
There is no prohibition against
having the U.S. flag twice, and this
solution is a compromise.
It is our feeling that the middle display above is appropriate, but we don't take objection to displays one and three
above.
I have three flags and one pole. What order should they be in?
N.B.: You may never place two national flags on a single pole, as they must be at the same height and the
approximate same size.
In military use, no more than two flags may be on a single pole. There is no official guideline for civilian use. The
order, generally, is as follows, seen top to bottom:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
US flag
state flags (host state first, then others in the order of admission)
US territories (Washington DC, Puerto Rico, etc.)
Military (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard)
POW/MIA
other (not advertising)*
*Section 8i of the Flag Code reads:
"Advertising signs should not be fastened to a staff or halyard from which the flag is flown."
See complete list
The American flag is on top. But, can a company flag fly beneath it on the same pole?
No. Corporate banners are a form of branding, and, as such, a form of advertising. Section 8i of the Flag Code
reads:
"Advertising signs should not be fastened to a staff or halyard from which the flag is flown."
I have a neighbor flying a Mexican flag and no US flag. Is this a violation of the flag
code?
The Flag Code requires that the US flag be flown on federal institutions, including public schools. It does not
require you to fly the US flag and it does not forbid you from displaying a foreign flag. For example, someone with
Irish heritage may proudly fly an Irish flag and is not required to fly the US flag. In the early 1900s there was
hostility when the German flag was flown in the US, prompting Theodore Roosevelt to state that we had one flag,
and one language. We are again revisiting tensions, this time it is the Mexican flag. We understand the emotional
tensions of the situation, however, the Flag Code does not support those who wish to forbid the flying of the
Mexican flag within our borders without also flying the US flag.

In the News: US town bars foreign flags in swipe at immigrants [November 16, 2006]
Can a foreign flag fly above the US flag?
KRNV News 4
A situation arose in Reno, where a Mexican Flag was flown above the US flag on a single pole. This was a violation
of the Flag Code and was apparently done to make a political statement.
Let's start by looking at the Flag Code. You will find there is a contradiction. First it says that all foreign flags
should fly at the same height as the US flag. But later, it says that no foreign flag should fly at the same height as
the US flag.
7g. reads, "When flags of two or more nations are displayed, they are to be flown from separate staffs of the same
height. The flags should be of approximately equal size. International usage forbids the display of the flag of one
nation above that of another nation in time of peace."
7c. starts, "No other flag or pennant should be placed above or, if on the same level, to the right of the flag of the
United States of America..."
7c. later on reads (emphasis ours), "No person shall display the flag of the United Nations or any other national or
international flag equal, above, or in a position of superior prominence or honor to, or in place of, the flag of the
United States at any place within the United States or any Territory or possession thereof..."
Notwithstanding the confusion here, it is always recommended to fly foreign flags from separate poles, and that
the flags should be flown at the same height (or the US flag slightly higher) and be of same or similar size.
See Are there penalties for violating the Flag Code?

In the News: Vandals lower Mexican flags at Rolling Meadows apartments [July 30, 2019]
How do we display the US flag with the Christian Flag?
The challenge is which flag should be in the position of prominence. Section 7k of the Flag Code states:
When displayed from a staff in a church or public auditorium, the flag of the United States of America should hold
the position of superior prominence, in advance of the audience, and in the position of honor at the clergyman's or
speaker's right as he faces the audience. Any other flag so displayed should be placed on the left of the clergyman
or speaker or to the right of the audience.
Does God come before country? Are secular and sacred separate spheres? In the 1840s the Nativist Riots were
directed against Catholics fearing sovereignty of the Pope over the laws of the country. We advise not making a
political issue over the flags. Some choose not to fly the US flag inside the church, to avoid the conflict. Most prefer
to have the US flag in the church, to recognize that our Freedom of Religion is one of the extraordinary
distinguishing and precious freedoms guaranteed by our Constitution.
The Christian flag may fly above the US flag only "during church services conducted by naval chaplains at sea,
when the church pennant may be flown above the flag during church services for the personnel of the Navy" (Flag
Code, Section 7c).
One option, to be consistent with both the US Flag Code and the Christian Flag Code, is to place the US flag at the
far left (congregation's perspective) and the Christian flag to the right, front, of the congregation and outside of the
communion railing. Both flags should be at the same height and of approximately the same size.
The complete order of precedence of flags in the US
The following is the order of precedence of flags, according to Army regulations.
1.
2.
3.
4.
The flag of the United States.
Foreign national flags. (Normally, these are displayed in alphabetical order using the English alphabet.)
Flag of the President of the United States of America.
State and territorial flags. Normally, state flags are displayed in order of admittance of the State to the
Union. However, they may also be displayed in alphabetical order using the English alphabet. Territorial
5.
flags are displayed after the State flags either in the order they were recognized by the United States or
alphabetically.
Military organizational flags of the Services in order of precedence
1. Cadets, United States Military Academy
2. Midshipmen, United States Naval Academy
3. Cadets, United States Air Force Academy
4. Cadets, United States Coast Guard Academy*
5. Midshipmen, United States Merchant Marine Academy
6. United States Army
7. United States Marine Corps
8. United States Navy
9. United States Air Force
10. United States Coast Guard*
11. Army National Guard of the United States
12. Army Reserve
13. Marine Corps Reserve
14. Naval Reserve
15. Air National Guard of the United States
16. Air Force Reserve
17. Coast Guard Reserve*
18. Other training organizations of the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard, in that
order, respectively.
*During any period when the United States Coast Guard shall operate as part of the United States Navy, swap numbers 3 and 4, 9
and 10, and 16 and 17. ref
6.
7.
8.
Military organizational flags within a Service by echelon. The flag for the regimental corps will have
precedence immediately before the regimental proponent’s command flag. The regimental corps flag will
never have precedence above a MACOM flag.
Individual flags in order of rank. For the purpose of order of precedence, the term “individual flags”
includes the Department of the Army Senior Executive Service flag.
Other
WWII Minuteman flag. Click for enlargement.
When authorized, the following may be flown beneath the flag of the United States:*




The Prisoner of War/Missing in Action (POW/MIA) flag
The Army Savings Program (Minuteman Flag)
The Retiree flag
Commander-in-Chief's Installation Excellence Award flag
*Army Regulation 840-10 2-2.c, reads, "The flag of the United States is the only flag that may be flown from a
flagpole over a CONUS Army installation unless an exception is granted by TIOH, U.S. Army. However, the
Minuteman flag (AR608-15) , the Prisoner of War/Missing in Action (POW/MIA) flag, the Retiree flag, or the
Commander-in-Chief's Installation Excellence Award flag, when authorized, may be flown beneath the flag of the
United States without referral to TIOH for exception. The POW/MIA flag will be flown beneath the flag of the United
States on Armed Forces Day, the third Saturday in May; Memorial Day, the last Monday in May; Flag Day, June 14;
Independence Day, July 4; National POW/MIA Day; Veterans Day, November 11 and on occasions when the
installation is hosting POW/MIA activities. The Retiree flag may be flown on Veterans Day or occasions when the
installation is sponsoring activities for retirees such as open house or retiree day. Not more than one flag will be
displayed below the flag of the United States and, if displayed, will be approximately 6 inches below the flag of the
United States."
Source:Army Regulation 840-10 [PDF]
See What is the correct order of the flags of the Military Branches?
What is the correct order of the flags of the Military Branches?
The correct order of precedence is:





Army
Marine Corps
Navy
Air Force
Coast Guard
The US Army was established in June 14, 1775.
The US Marine Corps has had precedence over the Navy since 1921. The Marine Corps cites its origins to legislation
of the Continental Congress establishing the Continental Marines on November 10, 1775.
The US Navy (until 1972) dated its establishment to legislation on March 27, 1794. Today, it dates its
establishment to October 13, 1775, when George Washington, under Continental authority, took command of three
privately-owned schooners to intercept British supply ships near Massachusetts.
The US Air Force became an independent service in 1947. It traces itself back to the Aeronautical Division, U.S.
Signal Corps (part of the Army) in 1907.
The US Coast Guard dates itself to the founding of the Revenue Cutter Service on August 4, 1790, by Alexander
Hamilton. The modern Coast Guard can be said to date to 1915, by act of Congress.
See The complete order of precedence of flags in the US
Source:Naval Historical Center
Here are the standards of the five branches of the military, in their correct order of precedence:
On my motorcycle, I have two flags, the US flag and a POW/MIA flag. How should they
be positioned?
The US flag should always be on its right, as shown in this picture. The POW/MIA or other flag flies on its left,
which is the viewer's right, facing the motorcycle.
When flying just the US flag or several flags, the US flag can be at the center, flying higher than the others.
Is it okay to display the flag upside down to protest the direction of government, the
economy, the war, high crime rates, your bar's liquor license, etc.?
The Flag Code states, "The flag should never be displayed with the union down, except as a signal of dire distress
in instances of extreme danger to life or property."
We feel it is a far stretch to argue that political purposes constitute the "dire distress in instances of extreme
danger to life or property" the Flag Code speaks of. An instance is a single event not an extended duration of time.
The clear intent is as a call for immediate emergency assistance (danger at sea, or perhaps during a kidnapping in
progress, for example).
We recommend that people who wish to express their political dissatisfaction find a way to do so that is respectful
of the flag ("The flag represents a living country and is itself considered a living thing." Section 8j).
"In times of national crisis, Americans look to the United States flag as a symbol of hope, courage, and freedom;
the United States flag is universally honored; the United States flag honors the men and women of the Armed
Forces who have given their life in the defense of the United States; the United States flag serves as a treasured
symbol of the loss of loved ones to the countless families of those who died in defense of our Nation" (Ref:
H.Res.420, sponsored by Rep. Robert Latta [R-OH])
The flag may, to some, represent just the government and its policies; but it is truly "a symbol of hope and
inspiration to people at home and around the world — as a constellation which grows brighter with every
achievement earned and sacrifice borne by one of our citizens." [ref]
We recommend you show respect for the flag and make your political views known in other ways.
While it is not illegal, it is inconsistent with the intent of the Flag Code and disrespectful to the memory of those
who sacrificed their lives to protect your freedom to protest.

In the News: Vets Sue West L.A. Veterans Administration [March 17, 2010]

In the News: ACLU Sues VA Over Free Speech Rights [March 16, 2010]

In the News: Dispute Over Flag Protest Erupts in Wisc. Village [re: liquor license, July 10, 2009]

In the News: Veterans group with a gripe upends the Stars and Stripes [June 26, 2009]

In the News: Vets upset about upside down flag [May 6, 2009]

In the News: Las Cruces veteran upends flag to protest Obama [November 7, 2008]

In the News: Police can't cite upside-down-flag flier [June 28, 2008]
Why is the flag sometimes backwards on the side of airplanes, buses, and other
vehicles?
Air Force 1 showing the regular flag on the left side and the reverse flag on the right side.
The flag decals show the union (the blue area) on the side closer to the front of the plane. On the plane's left, the
decal shows the flag with the union at the left, as usual. On the plane's right side, is a "right flag" or "reversed field
flag" or "reverse flag," with the union on the right. This is done so that the flag looks as if it is blowing in the wind
created by the forward movement. You can see this on cars and trucks as well.
What is the proper way to wear a flag patch on one's shoulder sleeve?
Left Flag
Right or "reversed field" flag
General David Petraeus
To wear our country's flag properly, the field of stars is worn closest to your heart. Further, when worn on the
sleeve of a military uniform, the flag should appear to be advancing and not retreating. Thus, if your patch is to be
worn on your LEFT sleeve, use a left flag (normal). For patches worn on your RIGHT sleeve, use a "right" or
"reversed field" flag.
Since the Flag Rules do not specifically address the positioning of the patch, a decision is left to the discretion of
the organization prescribing the wear. Some elect to use the "left" flag on both sleeves. [Note: many states and
cities have ordinances pertaining to the use of the flag; you may wish to contact the Attorney General of your state
or the City Attorney's office regarding this matter.] If you are planning to wear only one patch, it is recommended
that you wear a "left" flag on your left sleeve.
Military guidelines specify that in support of joint or multi-national operations (as in Afghanistan), the "right" flag is
worn on the right sleeve (see picture), 1/4" below the shoulder seam or 1/8" below any required unit patches.
(Class A uniform excepted.)
Some people find the "right flag" disrespectful of the flag and some are calling it the "wrong flag." They seek to
gain support to encourage a change in the regulations to always use a "left flag" even on a right sleeve.
Source: Army Website FAQs
I am interested in having a US flag patch sewn on the right arm of my baseball jersey.
Section 8j. of the Flag Code states, "No part of the flag should ever be used as a costume or athletic uniform."
While inside a building, on a staff that sits on the floor, is there a particular side of the
building the flag needs to be on? east, south, north, west?
No, the direction is not important inside a building. The US flag should be in the place of prominence in the room.
This is usually at the far left corner or centered on the far wall, as you enter the room.
When inside a building, suspended from the ceiling, is the direction important?
Yes. Section 7o reads, "When the flag is suspended across a corridor or lobby in a building with only one main
entrance, it should be suspended vertically with the union of the flag to the observer's left upon entering. If the
building has more than one main entrance, the flag should be suspended vertically near the center of the corridor
or lobby with the union to the north, when entrances are to the east and west or to the east when entrances are to
the north and south."
Half-Staff, Half-Mast
Is there a difference between half-mast and half-staff?
According to Merriam-Webster's (3rd Edition):
Half-mast: a point some distance but not necessarily halfway down below the top of a mast or staff or the peak of
a gaff.
Half-staff:
HALF-MAST
— used of a flag or a flagpole
The Associated Press Style Guide suggests using "half staff."
However, most dictionaries use "half-mast" as the preferred term.
The Flag Code (section 7-m) reads:
The term "half-staff" means the position of the flag when it is one-half the distance between the top and bottom of
the staff;
Using Google, you find the term "half-mast" 592,000 times and the term "half-staff" 428,000 times. Searching
White House press releases "half-staff" appears 80 times to "half-mast" only 4 times.
Naval flag protocol uses the term "half-staff" 10 times, and the term "half-mast" 61 times.
Our conclusion is that both terms can be used. The term "half-mast" is preferred by dictionaries and seems more
appropriate at sea (as ships have masts). "Half-staff" seems more appropriate on land, and is the preferred term
used in the Flag Code and in Presidential proclamations.
We call it a draw. The two terms may be used interchangeably for general use.
Should I fly my flag at half-staff today?
» Also see Should I fly my flag today?
When to half-staff the flag




May 15 — Peace Officers Memorial Day: half-staff from sunrise to sunset
Last Monday in May — Memorial Day: the flag should be displayed at half-staff until noon
September 11 — Patriot Day: half-staff from sunrise to sunset
First Sunday in October — Start of Fire Prevention Week: half-staff from sunrise to sunset. See Public
Law 107-51

December 7 — National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day: half-staff from sunrise to sunset

Upon reliable information that a past or present President, Vice-President, Chief Justice, or Speaker of the
House has died
Upon Presidential proclamation (see next) or your state's governor (see after)

Presidential proclamation
Click to see if the President has issued a proclamation to half-staff the flag.
Governors' Websites:
Select a state...
By statute, the President is requested each year to issue a proclamation requiring government buildings to halfstaff the flag and inviting all the people of the US to do so as well, on Peace Officers Memorial Day, Patriot Day,
and National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (see above).
Section 7m of the Flag Code reads:
The flag, when flown at half-staff, should be first hoisted to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the halfstaff position. The flag should be again raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day. On Memorial Day the
flag should be displayed at half-staff until noon only, then raised to the top of the staff. By order of the President,
the flag shall be flown at half-staff upon the death of principal figures of the United States Government and the
Governor of a State, territory, or possession, as a mark of respect to their memory. In the event of the death of
other officials or foreign dignitaries, the flag is to be displayed at half-staff according to Presidential instructions or
orders, or in accordance with recognized customs or practices not inconsistent with law. In the event of the death
of a present or former official of the government of any State, territory, or possession of the United States, or the
death of a member of the Armed Forces from any State, territory, or possession who dies while serving on active
duty, the Governor of that State, territory, or possession may proclaim that the National flag shall be flown at halfstaff, and the same authority is provided to the Mayor of the District of Columbia with respect to present or former
officials of the District of Columbia and members of the Armed Forces from the District of Columbia. The flag shall
be flown at half-staff 30 days from the death of the President or a former President; 10 days from the day of death
of the Vice President, the Chief Justice or a retired Chief Justice of the United States, or the Speaker of the House
of Representatives; from the day of death until interment of an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, a
Secretary of an executive or military department, a former Vice President, or the Governor of a State, territory, or
possession; and on the day of death and the following day for a Member of Congress. The flag shall be flown at
half-staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day, unless that day is also Armed Forces Day. As used in this subsection —
1.
2.
3.
the term "half-staff" means the position of the flag when it is one-half the distance between the top and
bottom of the staff;
the term "executive or military department" means any agency listed under sections 101 and 102 of title
5, United States Code; and
the term "Member of Congress" means a Senator, a Representative, a Delegate, or the Resident
Commissioner from Puerto Rico.
In addition to the Flag Code, Proclamation 3044 Section 5 states, "The heads of the several departments and
agencies of the [federal] Government may direct that the flag of the United States be flown at half-staff on
buildings, grounds, or naval vessels under their jurisdiction on occasions other than those specified herein which
they consider proper, and that suitable military honors be rendered as appropriate."
Upon the death of a sitting or former President how long does the flag fly at half-mast?
For a Vice-President? Others?




30 days from the death of the President or a former President
10 days from the day of death for: Vice President; Chief Justice of the US or a retired Chief Justice of the
US; Speaker of the House of Representatives
Day of death until interment for: Associate Justice of the Supreme Court; Secretary of an executive or
military department; Former Vice President; Governor of a State, territory, or possession
Day of death and the following day for: Member of Congress
Section 7-m of the Flag Code
How can I show mourning if my flag is on a fixed pole or staff and can't be half-masted?
The flag rules make no provisions for this. You can affix a streamer of black crepe to the staff immediately below
the spearhead of the U.S. flag. It should be no wider than 1 foot, but may be less wide to match the proportionality
of the flag. It should be about 1-1/2 times the hoist of the fly (the shorter dimension; the height of the flag).
Attach a black streamer with a bow-knot to the spearhead (top) of the pole, allowing the streamer to fall naturally.
Alternately, you can affix black bow-knots, with or without streamers, placed at the fastening points.
Can the US flag be flown at half staff and the state flag be flown underneath of it on the
same pole?
Yes. The US flag should be at a point midway on the pole and the state flag should fly beneath it.
When the US flag is at half-staff, do other foreign flags fly at full-staff?
Yes. "The flag of the United States will be flown at half-staff whether or not the flag of another nation is flown at
full staff alongside the United States flag."
Reference: Department of the Army Pamphlet 600–60
When the US flag is at half mast, should other flags (state, city, company) be flown at
half mast?
Yes, they should. Here is what Section 7f of the Flag Code states:
When flags of States, cities, or localities, or pennants of societies are flown on the same halyard with the flag of
the United States, the latter should always be at the peak. When the flags are flown from adjacent staffs, the flag
of the United States should be hoisted first and lowered last. No such flag or pennant may be placed above the flag
of the United States or to the United States flag's right.
Therefore, when the US flag is flown at half-mast, other non-national flags should also fly at half-mast.
On Memorial Day, should we place small flags at gravesites?
Yes, it is customary to honor fallen soldiers every Memorial Day by placing a small flag at the gravesite. At
Arlington Cemetery, on the Thursday before the Memorial Day weekend, small flags are placed at every burial site
in a ceremony called "Flags In." The small flags are removed at the end of the Memorial Day weekend.
Memorial Day is the last Monday of May and the flag should be displayed at half-staff until noon and then raised
to full-staff. Full staff shows that the nation lives, for the flag is the symbol of the living nation.
Memorial Day began after the Civil War to honor the fallen Union soldiers. Over time it expanded to memorialize
those who served from all branches of the military and in all wars. It was traditionally celebrated on May 30. In
1968, it was changed to the last Monday in May, traditionally kicking off the unofficial beginning of the summer
season. At 3:00pm a minute of silence is observed across the nation.
Reference and more history: US Dept. of Veterans Affairs
Can the governor order the US flag half-staffed for anyone he or she chooses?
No. Section 7m of the Flag Code authorizes a governor to half-staff the US flag upon the death of a present or
former official of the government of the state, or the death of a member of the Armed Forces from that state who
dies while serving on active duty.
The President, by comparison, is authorized to half-staff the US flag by proclamation upon the death of principal
figures of the US Government and the Governor of a State, territory, or possession, as well as in the event of the
death of other officials or foreign dignitaries.
We recommend flying the state flag at half-staff.
A recent change allows governors to order the flag to half-staff to honor fallen soldiers from their state (see Public
Law 110-41). The change was the result of governor proclamations, like this one from Governor Granholm of
Michigan.
Some object to this extension of a governor's authority because they feel half-staffing the flag for every fallen
soldier can be seen as anti-war. Some feel that overuse cheapens the symbolic power of half-staffing the flag,
traditionally reserved for political leaders.
Can the mayor order the US flag to half-mast?
No. According to the Flag Code, only the President of the United States, your state's Governor, and the Mayor of
the District of Columbia can order the US flag lowered to half-staff.
If everyone were to half-staff the US flag at will, the symbolic value of that honor would be lost. Another option is
to display black crepe near the entrance to your building, perhaps with a photograph of the former mayor,
firefighter, police officer, etc.
We recommend that you fly your town flag at half staff.
Also see Can the governor order the US flag half-staffed for anyone he or she chooses?

In the News: Questions arise regarding lowering flag to half-staff [May 7, 2009]
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In the News: Ayers Balks At Order On Flag Display [May 6, 2008]
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In the News: Ridgefield has flap over flag [March 7, 2008]
Can my company fly the US flag at half-mast for a former employee?
No. According to the Flag Code, only the president of the US or your state governor can order the US flag lowered
to half-staff. You can half-staff your company flag, which has the advantage of informing passersby and
uninformed employees, clients, etc., that someone important to your company has died.

In the News: Ridgefield has flap over flag [March 7, 2008]
Can my school fly the US flag for a former student killed in Iraq?
No. According to the Flag Code, only the president of the US or your state governor can order the US flag lowered
to half-staff. You can half-staff your school flag. You can also display black crepe near the entrance to the building,
perhaps with a photograph of the former student.

In the News: Ridgefield has flap over flag [March 7, 2008]
I was told there are 5 places the flag is never lowered to half staff.
We receive this question periodically. The five proposed locations are:
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The Betsy Ross House (false, it is half-staffed)
The Alamo (false, it is half-staffed)
USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor (false, it is half-staffed)
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, in Arlington (false, it is half-staffed when others are, and, in addition,
it is lowered to half-staff 30 minutes before each funeral)
The Moon (true)
A flag, however, is never half-staffed on the battlefield. There are locations so remote that it is not lowered to halfstaff. And, half-staffing the flag is done on a voluntary basis by citizens, so there are certainly many flags that are
never half-staffed. However, there are no locations where the flag is not half-staffed by Congressional or
Presidential authority.
Also see Where does the flag fly 24 hours a day?
Funeral Flags
Is it okay to fly a flag that was used to drape a coffin?
The Flag Code makes no reference to this use. There is a difference of opinion. Some feel that once folded, it
should remain so forever. Other experts feel that it would be an honor to display the flag again to show patriotism.
Casket flags are 9-1/2'x5' which is almost twice larger than the usual 5'x3' house flag.
How do you drape the flag on a casket?
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Closed Casket: When the flag is used to drape a closed casket, it should be so placed that the union
(blue field) is at the head and over the left shoulder of the deceased. It may be said that the flag is
embracing the deceased who in life has served the flag.
Half Couch (Open): When the flag is used to drape a half-couch casket, it should be placed three layers
to cover the closed half of the casket in such a manner that the blue field will be the top fold, next to the
open portion of the casket on the deceased's left.
Full Couch (Open): When the flag is used to drape a full-couch casket, it should be folded in a triangular
shape and placed in the center part of the head panel of the casket cap, just above the left shoulder of the
deceased.
During a military commitment ceremony, the flag which was used to drape the casket is held waist high over the
grave by the pallbearers and, immediately after the sounding of "Taps," is folded in accordance with the
instructions given at the top of this page.
This custom began during the Napoleonic Wars (1796-1815). The dead carried from the field of battle on a caisson
were covered with a flag.
A casket flag is 9-1/2' x 5'.
Sources: Application For United States Flag For Burial Purposes 21-2008 | Customs (Arlington Cemetery)
My father was very patriotic, but didn't serve. Can his coffin be wrapped in a flag?
It is appropriate for any patriotic person to make and be granted the same honor as military to have a flag drape
the coffin. Only those who served in the military, however, are provided the flag for free. It would be
recommended that during the service that it be explained that the flag is draping the coffin as an expression of the
deceased's patriotism and love of country.
The flag for one who dies on active duty is provided by one's branch of service. Flags for other Veterans are
provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Civilians must purchase the flag at their own expense.
My father, a war veteran, requested that he be buried wrapped in a flag.
There is a tradition to bury a war veteran with a small flag or should it be requested, it is proper for a veteran to be
buried with his or her body wrapped in the flag.
Source: USAF Honor Guard Basic Protocol, Honors, and Ceremonies L5AZO8G000 [pdf]
For more information about veterans' funerals, click here.
Last October our granddaughter's paternal grandfather died. After the flag was folded,
the soldier tucked three spent cartridges in with the flag. What is the meaning of the
three cartridges?
According to Major Robert A. Lynn, USMCR, the three spent cartridges are symbolic. During a lull in battle, both
sides would fire three volleys each and then would remove their dead from the field of battle.
What are the funeral protocols for a veteran who has died?
To honor the memory of their service to their country, a United States flag drapes the casket of deceased veterans.
The field of blue is at the head and over the left shoulder. After Taps is played, the flag is carefully folded into the
symbolic tricorner shape. The folded flag is then presented as a keepsake to the next of kin (see below). Each
branch of the Armed Forces uses its own wording for the presentation:
U.S. Air Force: "On behalf of the President of the United States, the Department of the Air Force, and a grateful
nation, we offer this flag for the faithful and dedicated service of (Service Member's rank and name)."
U.S. Army: "This flag is presented on behalf of a grateful nation and the United States Army as a token of
appreciation for your loved one's honorable and faithful service."
U.S. Coast Guard: "On behalf of the President of the United States, the Commandant of the Coast Guard, and a
grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one's service to Country and
the Coast Guard."
U.S. Marine Corps: "On behalf of the President of the United States, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, and a
grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one's service to Country and
Corps."
U.S. Navy: "On behalf of the President of the United States and the Chief of Naval Operations, please accept this
flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one's service to this Country and a grateful Navy."
If the next of kin wishes (ask first), add: "God bless you and this family, and God bless the United States of
America."
At the end of the ceremony, the flag is presented to the next of kin (see next), usually by the military chaplain.
Primary Next of Kin (PNOK)
1.
Spouse
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Sons or daughters in the order of age, oldest first
Oldest parent, unless legal custody was granted to another person
Blood or adoptive relative granted legal custody
Brothers or sisters in the order of age, oldest first
Oldest grandparent
Other relative in accordance with laws of deceased's domicile
Close friends and associates
Note: If the deceased was serving on Active Duty, he/she would have appointed a PNOK in writing, for notification.
Flags for Veterans
Flags are provided for burial services of Servicemembers and Veterans. The flag for one who dies on active duty is
provided by one's branch of service. Flags for other Veterans are provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
See Laws Relating to Funeral Honors for more information.