subject: Show Your Pride With The Flag [print this page] There are many occasions that are the perfect time to fly the government flag of the country and show pride in our nation. Many people across the country have their own flags that they fly in their yards on flag poles or hang in their windows. There are many businesses and government buildings that fly the flag as a constant reminder to those who see it. This symbol is one that every person in this country can identify with personally and it even serves as a symbol to people all over the world.
Did you know that there are specific rules that we should all follow when using the flag? You may have heard of some of them, but there are many different rules of flag etiquette that we all should observe. This article will mention just a few of the things we should do when flying our nation's flag.
It is custom that a flag only be flown from sunrise to sunset and then taken down when it is dark. However, flags may be flown all night if they are properly lit and a patriotic effect is wanted. There are many different positions to use as you fly the flag, but it should always be done in the correct way, especially if there are other flags being flown as well. No other flag should ever be higher than the government flag. The higher position shows prominence and superiority. Also, when flags are flown from adjacent staffs, we are always instructed to hoist he United States flag first and lower it last. This is another way that we ensure no other flag is placed above the flag of our country. When flying flags of different countries, the flags should be of the same size, on separate staffs, and at the equal height. This is proper international usage and helps ensure that no country is placed above another in times of peace.
When flying a flag at half-staff, it should first be hoisted to the peak for a moment and then lowered to half-staff. On Memorial Day, the flag should be flown at half-staff until noon, and then raised to the top of the staff. It should also be flown at half-staff upon the death of important figures in our country to respect their memory.
