Did you know that there have been 27 different versions of the flag of the United States? No matter which one you’re flying, it’s important to avoid the common American flag displaying mistakes. American flag etiquette is specific on when and how to fly a flag, and going against this etiquette can cause issues or disrespect.
If you’re looking for some common mistakes to avoid, look no further! Here are five common mistakes to avoid when hanging American flags.
1. Incorrect Orientation
One of the first things you should consider is the orientation of your flag. Does the union go to the top left or the top right?
Hanging a flag at the wrong orientation is immensely disrespectful and must be avoided. Hang the flag with the union in the top left of the flag in relation to the flag pole. In all situations, this is the correct orientation to hang the flag.
2. Worn or Damaged Flag
You wouldn’t wear damaged clothes, so why fly a damaged flag? If your flag is damaged, torn, or otherwise worn down, you should replace your worn American flag swiftly.
Your flag might have gotten damaged while flying it. Sun bleaching, weather, airborne debris, and other such issues will inevitably damage your flag. If you need a new American flag, click here to replace your damaged flag.
3. Wearing Your Flag
It’s common to see people wearing clothes that feature the American flag. Hats, shirts, and flag-styled shorts are all popular clothes, especially at patriotic events. However, these are not true flags and are simply look-alike fashion.
If you have a flag, do not wear it as clothes. Sewing an old flag into clothes or fashioning one into clothes is highly disrespectful. When you have a flag to dispose of, do so respectfully and in a way that follows flag disposal codes.
4. Keeping the Flag Up During a Storm
There are several occasions where one should not have their flag flying. One of the most common of these is during a storm or inclement weather. If you have an upcoming storm, hurricane, or rainy day, take your flag down and wait for better weather for hanging flags.
You also should take your flag down at night. The flag should fly during the day, meaning you should raise it in the morning and lower the flag at night. Hanging flags at night is considered against the code.
5. Improper Order
The fifth mistake to avoid is a simple question of order. If you have multiple flags but only one flag pole, it’s crucial that the American flag is at the top. The flag code states that the American flag must be displayed at the top of the flag pole and above any other flags.
Avoiding American Flag Displaying Mistakes
There are many American flag displaying mistakes that you should avoid, but these are the five most severe. Avoid these mistakes and fly your flag in a respectful and patriotic way.
To read more informative blog posts, feel free to browse our website for more!
Leave a Reply