Did you know that flag etiquette is actually part of the U.S. Code? There it is, in 4 U.S.C. 7. Here are a couple of tips for flying your flag.
Memorial Day
When you are flying more than one flag, the U.S. Flag should be higher than any other flags (note: this applies to non-country flags; international usage forbids the display of the flag of one nation above that of another nation in time of peace). In addition, it should be on the right — the flag’s right. So, as viewed it will be on the left.
If you are flying multiple flags, the U.S. Flag should be raised first, then the other flag. You reverse that when taking it down.
When displayed against a wall, the union (the stars on the blue background) should always be on the upper left (as viewed by an observer).
Here’s one I can never remember: when the flag is hanging over the middle of the street, the union should be on the north side for an east-west street or on the east side for a north-south street. The code does not say what to do for a diagonal street.
When it comes to respect for the flag, you are not supposed to wear it as clothing. So all those T-shirts with flags on them violate the U.S. Code (there is no penalty for doing so, and times change). And did you know that the flag is never to be used for advertising purposes? Yeah, try enforcing that one.
Oh, and when wearing a flag lapel pin, it should go on the left side, closer to your heart.
Great peice Bob! I hope a lot of people read this and learn proper flag care. Ideal for Memorial Day.
Tidbit for you, you mentioned how to display the flag hanging over the middle of a street. Usually, the accepted practice for a diagonal street, the union is usually to the north-east side of the street, combining the protcall for the north-south and east-west streets. It’s not written in the code, because it is assumed by extention.
Tim,
Good point for the diagonal. That makes sense. Thanks.
However, what do they do for the diagonal perpendicular to that? I’m guessing they’d go northwest, giving precedent to north over east.