Flag Etiquette and Interesting Facts
Little known facts about the Flag of the United States of America:
In May of 1776 Betsy Ross sewed the first American flag.
On June 14, 1977 Continental Congress adopts the following: Resolved: that the flag of the United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation. The stars represent Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, South Carolina, New Hampshire, Virginia, New York, North Carolina, and Rhode Island – the original 13 colonies.
On September 14, 1814, Francis Scott Key wrote The Star-Spangled Banner and the poem officially became our national anthem in 1931.
In 1892, the Pledge of Allegiance was first published in a magazine called The Youth's Companion, written by Francis Bellamy. The words "under God" were added on June 14, 1954.
Since 1776, the U. S. Flag has been changed 28 times by adding a star for each new state that entered the union. In 1795 two more stripes were added along with two stars. However, in 1818 the last two stripes were removed and the Flag has remained at 13 stripes ever since.
Frequently Asked Questions about the U. S. Flag:
When can the flag be displayed?
Display the flag between sunrise and sunset. The flag may also be displayed at night as long as it is illuminated at all times.Can the flag be displayed when it rains? Unless it's an all-weather flag, do not display during rain, snow, or wind storms.
Can the flag be flown every day?
The flag can be displayed anytime, especially on state and national holidays and special occasions.Where should the flag be displayed?
The flag should be displayed on or near the main building of public institutions, schools, and polling places.Is there a special way to put a flag on a pole?
The flag should be hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously. Remember, never let the flag touch the ground.When marching or displaying the flag where shall it be?
When carrying or displaying the U. S. Flag with other flags, the U. S. Flag should be either in front and center of the flag line, on the right side (viewer's left, flag right), or at the top.How do you hang the flag?
The flag should flow free, hung from a staff or suspended not to touch the ground or anything else beneath it. Never drape over a vehicle.Is there a special order of hoisting the U. S. Flag when displayed with others?
When displayed with other flags, the U. S. Flag is hoisted first and lowered last.May the flag be draped over a casket?
Flag-draped coffins are permitted for active-duty military service members, veterans, and some civilians, including the president and some members of Congress. Contact the Department of Defense for more up to date information. The union (blue field) should be placed over the deceased's head and heart, over the left shoulder and removed prior to the casket being lowered into the grave. No part of the flag can touch the ground.When can the flag be hung at half-staff?
Only by order of the President of the United States, the governor of the state, or the mayor of Washington D.C. can the flag be flown at half-staff or half-mast, on a ship.On which holidays is the flag flown at half-staff?
On Memorial Day (last Monday in May), the U.S. Flag should be displayed at half-staff until noon.Can the flag be worn?
Never wear the flag as apparel. A flag patch or jewelry may be attached to a uniform or other garment to display patriotism.Should the flag be displayed if it is torn or frayed?
The U. S. Flag should not be displayed if it is in a state of disrepair. The flag should be destroyed in a dignified way. Some patriotic organizations such as the VFW can assist in giving your flag a proper disposition.Can the flag be placed on flyers?
The flag may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes.
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