Honoring the U.S. Flag with Respect and Dignity

The U.S. Flag is a powerful symbol of freedom, unity, and sacrifice. It represents a living nation and should always be treated with the highest level of care and respect. Below are key guidelines to ensure proper handling and display of the flag.

Proper Display Guidelines

Always Position the Blue Union Field Up

The flag should never be displayed upside down unless as a distress signal.

Carry the Flag Aloft and Free

It should never be carried flat or horizontally in processions or parades, except for exceptionally large flags that cannot be flown.

Keep the Flag Clean and in Good Condition

Protect it from damage and ensure it is displayed respectfully.

Display multiple flags correctly

When flying multiple flags on the same pole, the U.S. Flag must be at the top. However, flags of sovereign nations should always be flown from separate poles.

Religious and Ceremonial Exceptions

The only time another flag may be flown above the U.S. Flag is when a church pennant is raised during naval chaplain services at sea.

Half-Staff Protocol

When flown at half-staff, the flag should first be raised to the peak for a moment before being lowered to the appropriate position. Before being taken down, it should again be raised to the peak momentarily. The President of the United States and state governors determine when the flag is to be flown at half-staff in honor of deceased officials, dignitaries, or national observances.

Standard Half-Staff Observances

For residential flagpoles where the flag cannot be lowered, it is appropriate to attach two black ribbons to the end of the pole as a sign of mourning.

30 days following the death of a sitting or former U.S. President.
10 days following the death of the Vice President, Chief Justice, or Speaker of the House.
From the day of death until interment for certain high-ranking officials.
Peace Officers Memorial Day (unless it falls on Armed Forces Day).

A large gray house with a steep roof and white trim, surrounded by green lawn and trees. An American flag flies on a pole beside it under a clear blue sky.

Two flags on flagpoles: a U.S. flag above and a blue flag below, with bare trees in the background.

Flying the Flag in Bad Weather

If the flag is made of all-weather material, it may remain flying during rain, snow, or wind.
High-durability flags designed for strong winds are available for long-term outdoor use.

Raising & Lowering the Flag

The flag should be raised briskly and lowered slowly and with ceremony.
It should be displayed only between sunrise and sunset, unless properly illuminated for nighttime display.
The U.S. Flag should be saluted as it is hoisted and lowered, with the salute held until the flag is unsnapped from the halyard or the last note of the National Anthem is played.

American flag on a pole near a bank sign, surrounded by greenery and a parking area under a partly cloudy sky.

We’re Here to Guide You

By following these guidelines, we show proper respect for the flag and what it represents. Contact us if you have any questions about proper flag etiquette or need assistance selecting the right flag and accessories.

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