Flag Etiquette: How to Respect our National Symbol

Most of Public Entity Partners’ members proudly display the American flag at their entities. A symbol of unity, pride and honor, the flag represents the ideals, values, history and people of our nation. It is important to treat the flag with respect and dignity.

With Flag Day approaching on June 14, here are some reminders of flag etiquette that might provide assistance for properly displaying our national symbol:

1. Displaying the Flag — When displaying the flag, there are some guidelines to follow. The flag should be displayed on a flagpole or halyard in a prominent place, preferably at the center of the building. If it is displayed with other flags, it should be placed in the center and higher than the others. The flag should never be displayed upside down, except as a distress signal. Also, it should not touch the ground, water or any other objects.
2. Saluting the Flag — When the national anthem or the pledge of allegiance is played, it is customary to salute the flag. The hand should be placed over the heart and men should remove their hats. Military personnel and veterans may salute the flag by standing at attention and saluting with a military-style salute. The same respect should be shown when passing the flag or when it is being raised or lowered.
3. Folding the Flag — When the flag is taken down, it should be folded in a particular way. The proper way to fold the flag is to fold it in half twice so the stars are showing. Next, fold the flag in a triangle, starting at the striped end. Finally, tuck the remaining end into the fold to secure it. This way, the flag resembles a three-cornered hat, which is a symbol of patriotism.
4. Disposing of the Flag — When the flag is old, worn or torn, it should be disposed of properly. The best way to dispose of a flag is by burning it in a dignified ceremony. This ceremony should be done with respect and the flag should be folded properly before burning. Some organizations, such as the Boy Scouts of America and American Legion, hold flag disposal ceremonies on a regular basis.
5. Respecting Other Flags — It is important to show respect for other flags as well, especially when they are displayed alongside the national flag. When in a foreign country, it is customary to follow their flag etiquette, and it is essential to know their customs and laws related to flag display and saluting.

In Tennessee, the American flag is flown at half-staff on certain designated days of mourning or remembrance, as well as when ordered by the President of the United States or the Governor of Tennessee.

The following are the designated days on which the American flag is flown at half-staff in Tennessee:

1. Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15)
2. Memorial Day (last Monday in May until noon)
3. Flag Day (June 14)
4. National Firefighters Memorial Day (October 7)
5. Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (December 7)
6. National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service (date varies)

In addition, the Governor of Tennessee may order flags to be flown at half-staff on other occasions, such as to honor the memory of Tennessee residents who have lost their lives in service to the country or in response to a national tragedy.

It is important to note that when the flag is flown at half-staff, it should first be raised to the top of the staff for a moment, and then lowered to half-staff. It should also be raised to the top again before being lowered at the end of the day. If the flag is displayed on a wall or in a window, it should be hung vertically, with the blue field of stars at the upper left corner.

It is also customary to fly flags at half-staff on private residences and businesses during the same days as the government buildings. However, this is not required by law, but rather a sign of respect and mourning for the designated days.

Flag etiquette is a way of showing respect and honor to our national symbol. By following these simple guidelines, we can ensure that the flag remains a powerful representation of unity and pride for our country.