Displaying the Flag of Our Country The flag is symbolic of our nation, and, as such, should be treated with respect. This article describes the basic principles of flying the American Flag. Properly displaying the flag is an important part of the Independence Day celebrations. It is honorable to fly the flag over your home or business, but it must be done in a reverent fashion. Many people do not fully comprehend the principles which govern the display of the flag. Not observing these principles will not get you in trouble with the law, but you should try to show respect to the flag. Before even flying your flag, make sure that it is in good condition. There may be some minor rips or dirt smears on your flag.
Cleaning If your flag has these problems, take the time to repair and clean it. A flag that is not in its best condition should not be flown. Purchasing a new flag may be the best option for those who are unable to make the necessary repairs and restoration. In any case, be sure that your flag is ready to be flown. The next thing is to consider is whether you have permission to display the flag where you want to fly it. You have the right to display the flag at your home. There may, however, be rules regarding the display of the flag at a business or other location. Consult the local laws to be sure that you are allowed to fly the flag in a specific area. Once you have made sure that your flag is fit to fly and that you can fly the flag in its intended place, you should remember to develop a schedule of when your flag will be displayed. It is improper to keep a flag up during the night, unless it is properly lit.
Sunrise The best way to avoid this issue is to raise your flag at sunrise. The flag rises with the sun. Try to raise the flag in a quick and jubilant manner. Do not, however, be disrespectful. The flag should be lowered in the same manner, but at a slower rate of speed. When the flag is completely lowered, it will be necessary to properly fold it for storage. Make sure to fold it in half lengthwise, the striped bottom half covering the top half that bears the union, or field of stars. Fold it lengthwise again so that the union is now apparent on the top and the bottom.
Begin making triangular folds by bringing the end of the portion with stripes on it to the edge of the flag. The stripes of the triangle should be perpendicular with the stripes on the rest of the flag. Continue making these triangular folds by folding the first triangle over repeatedly onto the flag. In the end, you should have a triangle with only blue field and white stars on it. If you are going to leave the flag up over night, you should have a light focused on it as previously mentioned. During a patriotic holiday, such as the Fourth of July, you should make certain to take the flag down before leaving to any parties which will last into the night.
Have an open place It is important also to have an open place from which to display the flag. The flag should be free to flutter in the breeze without being hindered. Make sure as well that the flag is flown right side up. Flying the flag upside down is disrespectful, unless it is done to convey a message that there is some kind of danger on its way. Be careful to avoid causing confusion with your flag flying. It is vital that you do not display any other flag at a greater height than that of the American flag. As the representation of this country, the flag should be above all else. Even a state flag should be flown lower than the American flag, unless of course you live in Texas. Texas is the only state flag that can be flown at the same height as the American flag. The only other case in which a flag should be flown at the same height as the American flag is when you are displaying the flag of another nation. If you are flying both the flag of this nation and that of another, be sure that they are the same size. This is very important. You can show respect for this country by properly displaying the flag. Learn these principles and observe them. If you are looking for a Solar LED light for your flag, give our site a look. Photo Credit: Micky**