Flag Etiquette
The fundamental rule of flag etiquette is: treat all flags
with respect and common sense.
The Stars and Stripes takes precedence over all other flags
when flown within the United States. It should not be flown lower than another
flag nor should it be smaller than another flag flown with it. Other flags may,
however, be flown at the same height and in the same size. Other national flags
should not be smaller nor flown lower than the Stars and Stripes when displayed
together. If it is not possible to display two or more national flags at the
same height, it is not proper to display them together at all.
The point of honor is on the extreme left from the
standpoint of the observer {"the flag's right"). The order from left
to right of flags flown together is: the Stars and Stripes, other national flags
in alphabetical order, state flags, county and city flags, organizational flags,
personal flags.
If one flag is at half-staff in mourning, other flags flown
with it should be at half-staff. First raise the flags to their peaks, then
lower to half-staff. The Stars and Stripes is raised first and lowered last.
It is proper to fly the Stars and Stripes at night, but
only if it is spot lit.
No flag should be flown during weather that might damage it, based on a common sense interpretation of circumstances. Except when an all weather flag is displayed.
When a flag is torn, it should be repaired. If soiled, dry
clean an indoor flag, wash an outdoor flag.
When a flag is no longer of dignified appearance and cannot
be repaired, it should be destroyed in a dignified way (burned or sealed in a
bag or box before being sent out for trash collection).
In a public gathering (lecture hall, church, etc.), the
Stars and Stripes should be to the right of the speakers or on the wall behind
them.
The canton of the flag (the blue "field" with the
50 stars) should always be to the observers left except: 1) when displayed on a
casket; 2) when displayed as a decal on the right side of a vehicle (bus, truck,
plane, etc.); 3) when worn as a patch on the right arm (but use on the left arm
is preferable).
The Stars and Stripes should be in the center of a group of
flags only when 1) the center pole is taller than the others or 2) when a
fan-like arrangement makes the center pole higher than the others.
It is not illegal or improper to fly any flag (state,
ethnic group, organization, etc.) alone, but it is always preferable to display
the Stars and Stripes at the same time.