​​​​​​​​​​​​​​San Carlos Proud

Flag Etiquette

Copyright © San Carlos Proud. All Rights Reserved.

Flag Code - 4 U.S.C ch.5


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Displaying the Flag Properly




  • On a Wall: The U.S. flag should be displayed with the union uppermost and to the observer’s left.


  • Multi-National Flag Displays: The U.S. flag is to be displayed first - to its “own right” - followed by the flags of all other countries to the left.

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  • Among Subordinate Flags: The U.S. flag should be at the center and highest point.


  • From a Staff: The U.S. flag should hold the position of superior prominence, in advance of the audience, and to the speaker’s right. Other flags should be on the speaker’s left.


  • On a Pole: The U.S. flag should always be at the top, if flown with other flags.


  • Night-Time: If the U.S. flag is flown for 24hrs a day, it must be properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.

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  • On a Lapel: When worn as a lapel pin, the U.S. flag should be worn on the last lapel - near the heart.





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                         Etiquette



​The U.S. flag should never be used for advertising in any manner whatsoever.

The U.S. flag should never be displayed with union down, except as a signal of dire distress; danger to life/property.

The U.S. flag should never touch anything beneath it; floor, water, etc.

The U.S. flag should never be used for wearing apparel, drapery or bedding.                     

The U.S. flag should not be draped over the hood, top, sides, or back of a vehicle or boat. 


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Flag Retirement (Disposal)

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​According to the US Flag Code: 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.



When an American flag is worn beyond repair, it


should be retired in a respectful manner. Always remember


that our flag represents a living country, and is itself


considered a living thing. 



If you have a flag in need of retirement, please contact one


of your following local organizations such as: American


Legions, VFWs and the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, as they


collect flags and hold proper flag retirement ceremonies. 



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“The Flag Stands For All That We Hold Dear -- Freedom, Democracy, Government Of The People, By The People, And For The People.”

                                                     - Henry Cabot Lodge, 1915