The Flag Code: What’s Allowed and What’s Not
The United States Flag Code is a set of rules and guidelines that dictate how the American flag should be displayed and used. The code is designed to ensure that the flag is respected and treated with dignity, while also ensuring that it is displayed correctly. In this article, we will explore what is allowed and what is not under the Flag Code.
The Code: A Brief Overview
The Flag Code was established in 1938 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, with the signing of Executive Order 9923. The code consists of 21 rules and guidelines that cover everything from the flag’s construction to its storage and display. Here are some of the key rules outlined in the Flag Code:
Table 1: Flag Code Rules
| Rule # | Rule Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preparation of the Flag: The flag should be raised or lowered only by its two-starred flag machine, and never by hand. |
| 2 | Presentation of the Flag: The flag should be _ raised to the _ midline position _ for all displays. _ |
| 3 | Display of the Flag: The flag should be _ held upright at all times, except when _ properly stowed. |
| 4 | Storage of the Flag: The flag should be stored _ folded in a way that prevents it from _ being fluttered or _ flapped. |
| 5 | Display at Home: The flag should be _ displayed at home with the _ field in its correct orientation _. |
| 6 | Display in Government Buildings: The flag should be _ displayed with the _ field in its correct orientation _ in all government buildings. |
| 7 | Display in Government Vehicles: The flag should be _ displayed with the _ field in its correct orientation _ in all government vehicles. |
| 8 | Display in Military Facilities: The flag should be _ displayed with the _ field in its correct orientation _ in all military facilities. |
| 9 | Display in Uniform: The flag should be _ displayed with the _ field in its correct orientation _ when the flag bearer is in uniform. |
| 10 | Display in Camouflage: The flag should be _ displayed with the _ field in its correct orientation _ when the flag bearer is in camouflage. |
| 11 | Display in Distressed Conditions: The flag should be _ displayed with the _ field in its correct orientation _ when the flag bearer is in distress or in need of help. |
| 12 | Display in Flight: The flag should be _ displayed with the _ field in its correct orientation _ when the flag bearer is in flight. |
| 13 | Display in Transit: The flag should be _ displayed with the _ field in its correct orientation _ when the flag bearer is in transit. |
| 14 | Display in Fire Equipment: The flag should be _ displayed with the _ field in its correct orientation _ when the flag bearer is in fire equipment. |
| 15 | Display in Furniture: The flag should be _ displayed with the _ field in its correct orientation _ in furniture and furnishings. |
| 16 | Display in Carpets and Rugs: The flag should be _ displayed with the _ field in its correct orientation _ in carpets and rugs. |
| 17 | Display in Upholstery: The flag should be _ displayed with the _ field in its correct orientation _ in upholstery. |
| 18 | Display in Washlines: The flag should be _ displayed with the _ field in its correct orientation _ in washlines. |
| 19 | Display in Smoke Detectors: The flag should be _ displayed with the _ field in its correct orientation _ in smoke detectors. |
| 20 | Display in Fire Towers: The flag should be _ displayed with the _ field in its correct orientation _ in fire towers. |
| 21 | Display of the Flag in Its Final Position: The flag should be _ displayed in its final position _ for at least six months after it was _ manufactured. |
The Flag Code: What’s Allowed and What’s Not
The Flag Code is a set of rules and guidelines that dictate how the American flag should be displayed and used. The code is designed to ensure that the flag is respected and treated with dignity, while also ensuring that it is displayed correctly. Here are some of the key points that are allowed and what is not under the Flag Code:
- How to Raise the Flag: The flag should be raised to the _ midline position _ for all displays. _ This is the only time the flag can be raised.
- How to Lower the Flag: The flag should be lowered to the _ notch position _ for all displays. _ This is the only time the flag can be lowered.
- How to Handle the Flag: The flag should be handled by _ two people _, one person raising the flag and one person lowering it.
- What to Do with the Flag: The flag should be stored in a way that prevents it from _ being fluttered or _ flapped. _ It should be folded in a way that prevents it from _ being creased or _ wrinkled.
- How to Dispose of the Flag: The flag should be disposed of _ properly. _ This includes donating it to a veteran’s organization or using it for educational purposes.
Important Points to Remember
- Respect the Flag: The Flag Code is in place to ensure that the flag is treated with respect and dignity.
- Follow the Rules: The Flag Code is a set of rules that must be followed to ensure that the flag is displayed correctly.
- Be Mindful of the Symbolism: The American flag is a symbol of the country and its people. It is essential to be mindful of its symbolism and treat it with respect.
- Seek Guidance: If you are unsure about any part of the Flag Code, seek guidance from a veteran or a member of the military.
Conclusion
The Flag Code is an important set of rules and guidelines that dictate how the American flag should be displayed and used. By following the rules and guidelines outlined in the Flag Code, we can ensure that the flag is treated with respect and dignity, while also ensuring that it is displayed correctly. Remember to respect the flag, follow the rules, be mindful of the symbolism, and seek guidance when needed.