Proper Flag Care and Etiquette

Some people wonder what the red, white and blue mean. In 1777 Charles Thompson, Secretary of the Continental Congress, described the meaning of the colors. Though he was reporting to Congress on the Great Seal of the United States, he does say this about the flag:

“The colors of the pales (the vertical stripes) are those used in the flag of the United States of America; White signifies purity and innocence, Red, hardiness & valor, and Blue, the color of the Chief (the broad band above the stripes) signifies vigilance, perseverance & justice.”

This description is still valid today.

With the outpouring of patriotism we’ve seen recently it seems that people should be reminded of proper flag etiquette.

âÂ?¢ Don’t ever let the flag touch the ground.

� Never leave it outside after dark, unless it has a light on it. Take it down at sunset.

âÂ?¢ Don’t drape it over your car or the hood of your car. Fly the flag either from the right front fender (usually where your radio antenna is) or the right rear fender. In any case the size of the flag should not interfere with your vision, to the front, sides or rear. Most Police do not like to hear “The stars got in my eyes”, as an excuse for having an accident.

� Always hang the flag with the stars on the left side for anyone who would view it.

� Raise the flag on a flagpole quickly. Bring it down slowly. Fold it properly and put it away.

âÂ?¢ Don’t leave the flag out in inclement weather, unless it is made of an all weather material.

� There are numerous triangular boxes and cases available for either displaying your flag, or preserving and protecting it.

� If your flag becomes soiled, have it dry cleaned.

� Replace your flag when it fades. If it gets torn or tattered, it can be hemmed and patched. Burn an old flag, but do it with dignity, honor and respect.

Folding and Storing the Flag

� Begin by holding the flag waist high, with another person, so that it is parallel to the ground.

� Fold it in half lengthwise, the lower half of the stripe section over the stars.

� Then in half lengthwise again, with the stars facing the outside.

� Then starting at the end with the stripes, fold the corner to the side creating a triangle.

� Fold the triangle to the other side, then that one to the other side, and so on until you reach the end.

� You should have the stars all around the compact triangle, which may then be stored.

� Store your flag in a mothproof area, such as a cedar chest (for long periods of time). Moths and rodents will destroy a nice flag.

Remember to treat your flag with honor and respect and never forget those who have given their lives defending it or the principles it stands for.

God Bless America!