Flag Etiquette For The 4th Of July Celebration

July 4th is the Independence Day of the United States, and it is also a day to show the patriotism of Americans. People can express their patriotism by respecting the flag. So what kind of behavior should people show respect for the flag on this day?

The following tips are taken from the United States Flag Code, which specifies how people should behave around the flag. It also details how to handle the flag to always show due respect.

When Flying the Flag, Never Do Any of the Following:

1. Allow the flag to touch the ground. If you’ll be raising the flag this week, get help so it doesn’t drag on the ground. Remember, this is an iconic symbol.

2. Use the flag as decoration. If you’re decorating for a party, use bunting, not an actual flag. The flag should always be raised.

3. Use the flag as a cover for something. The flag is certainly not a tablecloth! Nor is it a way to decorate the ceiling. It is only used as a cover for funerals when it’s draped over a casket.

4. Tie it back. The flag should always be allowed to fly free and never tied back.

5. Use it as clothing. Draping the American flag around your shoulders is against the Federal Flag Code.

6. Display the flag in inclement weather. They do make all-weather flags, but unless you have one of these special flags, bring yours in during a storm.

7. Display a flag that is damaged or worn. The flag should not be torn, should not have holes, and should not be stained or dirty. If your flag is in bad condition, you should dispose of it properly, in a dignified manner. That’s usually interpreted as burning. If that’s not possible for you, take it to a VFW center near you and they will help you.

8. Dip the flag. The nation’s flag does not get dipped for any person.

When Flying the Flag, Observe these Rules:

1. Hoist the flag briskly and lower the flag with the ceremony. There’s a respectful way to raise a flag up the pole, and a respectful way to lower it as well.

2. Bring in the flag at dusk. If you have a light on your flag, however, it may stay up for 24 hours.

3. Carry the flag properly. Don’t carry it flat or carry anything in it.

4. Store the flag properly. This means keeping the flag dust-free in a safe, clean place.