Showing the American Flag

As anyone who has served in the military or any boy scout should be able to tell you, there are regulations for displaying and caring for our flag. These rules were adopted in order to honor the flag and what it represents. For example, we should never see a faded, torn, or tattered flag flying since it symbolizes our nation.

In addition, the flag should never be allowed to touch the ground, floor, water, or whatever is beneath it. When carried, it should always wave free, untangled, and unbound. If it is displayed with other flags at the same height, the American one should always be first to the observer's left. If the flags are displayed at different heights, the national flag should always be the highest one, the center one in a fan shape, or the top one on a pole. When placed against a wall, the blue field with stars should always be in the top left corner. It should also be folded according to specific directions. When the flag is raised or lowered in a ceremony or presented before a group, anyone in uniform should stand at attention and salute. Others should stand facing the flag with their right hand over their heart and holding any cap or hat.

A flag may be mended as long as the repair doesn't alter its appearance. When it becomes too dirty or torn, it should be disposed of properly by burning. An American Legion post, veterans' group, or local government offices may do this for you. Regulations also say that the flag should never appear on anything disposable, such as napkins, paper plates, or anything that can be thrown away. It should not be embroidered on items easily soiled, like handkerchiefs or throw pillows. I'm not sure we adhere to these anymore. In addition, the actual flag should never be cut up or used as clothing, bedding, or curtains.

The U.S. flag has had a long, honorable history. Many people have made great sacrifices to assure it remains flying proudly. As we remember those who have served our country on this Veteran's Day, let's treat soldiers, veterans, and our flag with respect and teach our children to do the same. "O long may it wave o'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!"

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