In honor of this week’s military holiday, BOJ would like to help clarify the rules of flying the US flag properly.
In a world of commercialized traditions, Santa Claus on Coca Cola bottles and red, white and blue pajamas – there are few things that have been determined disrespectful to veterans, service members and American citizens. (Watching “Jersey Shore” is unfortunately not one of them.)
Many of these rules have been diluted, forgotten or misunderstood. Those that choose to fly the American flag should remember these guidelines to ensure the respect and honor of those it represents.
1. The US Flag Flies Highest
Many flag fliers are unaware that one of the strictest codes of flag-flying is a promise to fly the United States flag above all others. Whether you are flying the McDonald’s corporate flag at a franchise location, or the Mexican flag as an acknowledgement to individual ancestry – the United States flag is supposed to fly the highest. If you fail to remember this rule, don’t be surprised if this guy comes over and does the reminding… yikes.
2. Don’t Burn Flags That Have Touched the Ground
This is a misconception. Burning the American flag is not part of any official tradition in regards to flags touching the ground. If a US flag is being hung in a fashion that allows it to touch the ground, the flag size should be changed, or it’s positioning. Don’t burn the flag… it’s not the flag’s fault!
3. Replace a Worn Flag
If your flag looks as if it was once flying during WWII, but wasn’t – it’s time to replace the ole gal. Flying a tattered flag is seen as somewhat disrespectful. If a repair is possible, make sure to sew the flag properly (think thread color). Flying a flag in bad weather (also frowned upon) can cause flags to tear or rip. Flags that can not be repaired may simply be retired. Be sure to take your flag down in times of turbulent weather, especially when things start to come apart like an old sweater. (If your American flag sweater starts to rip – you should sew that too.)
Follow these simple rules to keep your veteran neighbors from knocking on your door in their tactical gear… yikes. These rules are only a few of the guidelines created for flying a flag properly. The rest can be found here.
You will be the most American guy on the block with an unruffled, high-flying flame-resistant stars-n-stripes. Happy flag flying! And Happy Veterans Day!
