Our flag was the first and most important symbol in America and has stood for over 200 years.

It has been amazing to see the number of flags being displayed in the last few years. The flag is especially honored on the following days: Memorial Day, Flag Day (June 14), July 4th and Veterans Day.

Every American should stand in reverence to the flag at every possible occasion and be well versed in its history.

Federal law stipulates many aspects of flag etiquette and can be found in the Flag Code.

The following are some of the general guidelines from the Flag Code:

-The flag should be lighted at all times, either by sunlight or by an appropriate light source.

-The flag should be flown in fair weather, unless the flag is designed for inclement weather use.

-The flag should never be dipped to any person or thing. It is flown upside down only as a distress signal.

-The flag should not be used for any decoration in general.

-The flag should never be used for any advertising purposes.

-The flag should not be used as part of a costume or athletic uniform.

-The flag should never have any mark, insignia, letter, word, number, figure or drawing of any kind placed on it or attached to it.

-The flag should never be used for receiving, holding, carrying or delivering anything.

-When a flag is lowered, every effort should be made so that it should not touch the ground or any other object.

-The flag should be cleaned and mended when necessary.

-Finally, when a flag is so worn out it is no longer fit to serve as a symbol of our country, it should be properly retired. The Boy Scouts is an excellent source for flag disposal.

Take time to review the requirements for properly presenting the flag and show it with pride.

 

Loring S. Jones, III, Scoutmaster Emeritus Troop 96

Howard D. Poarch, Sons of American Revolution, State Flag Chairman