American Flag Etiquette & Care Tips

Respect should always be shown to the U.S. flag. Below are some guidelines for properly displaying the flag. If you have additional questions, refer to the U.S. Flag Code 

Displaying the Flag
The union, or stars, should be at the peak of the staff. fig.1

When hung on a wall, the union should be to the viewer’s left. fig.2

When displayed on the same staff – the U.S. flag should be at peak, above any other flag. fig.3

Marching
U.S. flag to marchers right (observer’s left).

Grouped
U.S. flag goes to its own right. Flags of other nations are flown at same height.

On Speaker’s Platform
When displayed with a speaker’s platform, it must be above and behind the speaker. If mounted on a staff it is on the speaker’s right.

Half Staff
On special days, the flag may be flown at half-staff. On Memorial Day it is flown at half-staff until noon and then raised. fig.4

Decoration
Never use the flag for decoration. Use bunting with the blue on top, then white, then red.

Illumination Guidelines
It is customary to display the flag from sunrise to sunset in good weather. The flag may be displayed twenty-four hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness. fig.5

Salute
All persons present in uniform should render the military salute. Members of the armed forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute. All other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, or if applicable, remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart.

Over a Street Union (stars) face north or east depending on the direction of the street.

Special Rules
Do not let the flag touch the ground or water.
Do not fly flag upside down unless there is an emergency.
Do not carry the flag flat, or carry things in it.
Do not use the flag as clothing.
Do not store the flag where it can get dirty.
Do not use it as a cover.
Do not fasten it or tie it back. Always allow it to fall free.
Do not draw on, or otherwise mark the flag.

Folding the Flag
Click here for step-by-step instructions on folding the flag. fig.6

Questions?
Additional information on the American Flag may be obtained by emailing the Department of State’s protocol office at protocolhelp@state.gov.