How to Display the U.S. Flag

Did you know that there is an official Flag Code? Along with the Pledge and National Anthem, it also covers the proper displaying of the flag. The Code names several days, including Independence Day, as a day when it is "especially important and desirable" to fly the flag.

If you have a flag pole, or are considering installing a flag pole, it is customary to fly the flag from "dawn to dusk." A flag can be flown 24 hours but must be properly illuminated at night.

When hoisting a flag onto a pole, in the morning it is to be raised briskly and lower more slowly and ceremoniously at the end of the day. If displaying with other flags, the U.S. flag is always raised first and lowered last. It is to be placed higher preferably than the others but if that is not possible, it is always placed to the right.

Some additional requirements/prohibitions involving the flag:

* It is only to be flown upside down as a distress signal.

* Should never be used as drapery or as a receptacle.

* When lowered, no part should every touch the ground or any other object.

* When worn out, the flag must be destroyed by burning in a dignified manner. Check with your local American Legion Post or Boy/Girl Scout Troop. They often have ceremonies - especially on Flag Day, June 14 - to properly dispose of worn flags.

When flying the flag at half-staff, it should be hoisted to the peak for an instant, then lowered to the halfway position. On Memorial Day, all flags are supposed to be flown at half-staff until noon, then raised into position.

On behalf of everyone at Nothnagle Realtors, best wishes for a safe and happy Independence Day!