The Rules On Using Discount US Flags

By Toni Vang


Everyone recognizes the national flag, even little kids. Other people in other countries know what the unique red, white and blue pattern is too. It doesn't sound entirely right to talk about discount US flags, but nevertheless the flags are sold on that basis sometimes. What you should be aware of, however, is that the same rules of flag use apply to any national flag, regardless of what you paid for it.

However, this is so. But what people should realize is that the flag remains as important as it always is, despite its lower price. As a national symbol, the flag has a special significance which requires a traditional etiquette. This isn't something that everyone may be familiar with but the fact that the flag was cheap does not detract from this requirement.

The temptation is to handle the flag, or any flag, like just another piece of fabric. This is a mistaken attitude. It is not handled or stored like other fabric, and people should be aware of that. National pride is the guiding principle here, so those who handle the national flag should remember that and stick to the rules about its handling.

They should not, at any time, allow the flag to touch the ground. This is strictly prohibited. When raising the flag onto its pole, or lowering it to store at night, or when carrying it, it must not have any contact with the ground. This is a mark of disrespect to the country and is extremely reckless conduct by those who are guilty of it.

Storing the flag is another important regulated activity. A flag is not folded up like other fabric items. It is not a sheet or a towel. A flag should not display creasing when it's flown, so folding it is different to other linen. Fold it lightly into a narrow rectangle, and then roll it carefully into a roll.

When hoisting the flag, there are further rules that should be obeyed. One such rule is as to whether the flag may be flown at night. There might be those who believe that the flag is not allowed to be flown 24 hours a day, which is incorrect. It is permissible, as long as the flag is lit up.

Sometimes, it needs to be flown along with another flag. However, at such times two posts must be used, one for each flag. If only a single post is available, then the national flag is always hoisted first, above the other flag, never in the reverse order. It always takes the top position on the post.

These are not merely rules of thumb. They are officially legislated in the American Flag Code but their violation does not constitute a crime. People are permitted their freedom of expression in their use of the flag. However, they should also consider that the national emblem is a matter of importance to the nation and that its misuse, for whatever reason, can potentially damage the image of the country. Those who use the flag should study the Code to understand how to do so and what the principles are behind its provisions.




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