The American flag has a long history, and the members of our organization have spent nearly as long defending and honoring our nation’s most iconic symbol of freedom. Whether you’re looking for the historic details of how the U.S. flag came to be, or the rules and regulations that encompass her daily flight, we’re here to ensure you can find the information you need.

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Displaying the Flag On Same Staff with U.S. flag at peak, above any other flag.

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Grouped

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

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Marching

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

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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.

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Decoration

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

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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.

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

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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.

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Special Rules

Do not let the flag touch the ground.

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.

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U.S. Flag Disposal

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Flag Disposal

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1. The flag should be folded in its customary manner.

2. It is important that the fire be fairly large and of sufficient intensity to ensure complete burning of the flag.

3. Place the flag on the fire.

4. The individual(s) can come to attention, salute the flag, recite the Pledge of Allegiance and have a brief period of silent reflection.

5. After the flag is completely consumed, the fire should then be safely extinguished and the ashes buried.

6. Please make sure you are conforming to local/state fire codes or ordinances.

 

Note: Bloomingdale VFW 7539 has a drop off for used flags near the Gazebo in front of the Bloomingdale Public Library.  Please place your used flags in the "mailbox" and VFW 7539 will provide a proper disposal of the flag.  If outside our area please contact your local VFW Post.