U.S. Flag Myths, FAQs & Terminology
General Myths & FAQs
What do the colors of the flag mean?
According to custom and tradition, white signifies purity and innocence; red, hardiness and valor; and blue signifies vigilance, perseverance, and justice.
What are the exact shades of the colors blue and red?
The exact shades of blue and red are numbers 80075 and 80180 in the Standard Color Card of America published by the Color Association of the United States. In the Pantone system the colors are: Blue PMS 282 and Red PMS 193. The RGB numbers are: #002868 (blue) and #BF0A30 (red).
Is it correct to say that certain stars in the blue field represent certain States?
While there is no legal or other authority for saying that any particular star in the blue union of the flag represents any particular state, many people feel it is natural and logical to consider, or assume that the first star represents the first state admitted into the Union (or rather, that ratified the Constitution) and that the last star represents the last State admitted. So from the upper left-hand corner, reading from left to right, top to bottom row would represent the various States in order of their admission into the Union.
Is gold fringe permitted on the U.S. Flag?
Records indicate that fringe was first used on the flag as early as 1835. It was not until 1895 that it was officially added to the national flag for all regiments of the Army. For civilian use, fringe is not required as an integral part of the flag, nor can its use be said to constitute an unauthorized addition to the design prescribed by statute. It is considered that fringe is used as an honorable enrichment only. (Military tradition)
The courts have deemed without merit and frivolous, lawsuits that contend that the gold fringe adorning the flag conferred Admiralty/Maritime jurisdiction.
How are changes in the U.S. Flag Code made?
Since the Flag Code is Public Law, it may be changed by the passage of appropriate legislation in Congress, or, as provided in the law itself, by proclamation of the President.
FLAG CODE MYTH #1:
The U.S. Flag Code is The American Legion Flag Code, and enforced by The American Legion.
FALSE: On Flag Day, June 14, 1923, The American Legion and representatives of 68 other patriotic, fraternal, civic and military organizations met in Washington, DC for the purpose of drafting a code of flag etiquette. The 77th Congress adopted this codification of rules as public law on June 22, 1942. It is Title 4, United States Code Chapter 1.
Display Myths & FAQs
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When to Display
When is the United States flag to be displayed?
The flag should be displayed on all days, especially on all Federal holidays; and on State holidays.
Is the U.S. Government required to fly the flag every day?
No. The U.S. Flag Code does not require government buildings to fly the flag. However, it recommends that the flag be displayed daily on or near the main administration building of public institutions, and many federal buildings follow this practice when possible.
Can the U.S. flag be flown at night/in dark outdoor conditions?
Yes. The Flag Code states the flag is customarily displayed from sunrise to sunset, but it may be flown 24 hours a day if it is properly illuminated at night/in dark outdoor conditions.
The American Legion defines “proper illumination” as a dedicated light aimed at the flag (preferred) or any light source strong enough for the flag to be clearly visible and recognizable to a casual observer.
Can the U.S. flag be displayed in inclement weather?
The flag should not be displayed on days when the weather is inclement, unless it is an all-weather (nylon or other non-absorbent material) flag. However, most flags are now made of all-weather materials.
Can a Legion post fly the flag 24 hours a day and in inclement weather without lighting or using an all-weather flag?
No. American Legion posts are expected to follow the same Flag Code guidelines as civilian displays. The American Legion encourages posts to follow these standards closely to set a proper example for the community. (Per The American Legion National Americanism Commission)
FLAG CODE MYTH #2:
There has been a change to the Flag Code that no longer requires the flag to be properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.
FALSE: There has been NO CHANGE to Flag Code section 6(a), which states: “It is the universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on stationary flag staffs in the open. However, when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed twenty-four hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.”
How to Display
What size flag is appropriate to be displayed from a flagpole?
The Flag Code does not specify flag size for different flagpoles. As a general rule of thumb, the flag’s length (fly) should be about one-fourth the height of the pole, based on tradition and common practice.
Are there any requirements for flagpoles or flagpole toppers/ornaments?
The Flag Code does not specify requirements for the design, size, or structure of flagpoles or their ornaments. Common flagpole toppers are based on military tradition and may include the eagle, acorn, ball, spear, lance, star (Navy), or flat truck (Navy), with the eagle being the most widely used.
When the flag is not flown from a staff, how should it be displayed?
The flag should be displayed vertically, indoors or outdoors, so it hangs freely as if on a staff. The stripes may be shown horizontally or vertically, but the union (blue field) must always be at the top and to the flag’s own right (the observer’s left). In a window display, the union should be to the left of someone viewing it from the street.
What is meant by the flag’s own right?
“The flag’s own right” refers to the position of honor. When displayed, the flag’s right side is the observer’s left. This comes from tradition, where the right side was considered the place of honor.
How should multiple U.S. flags be displayed indoors?
When displaying two or more U.S. flags indoors, each should follow standard U.S. Flag Code guidelines. In most cases, using multiple flags is unnecessary. If several flags are used for a patriotic display, they may be arranged based on good judgment and tasteful presentation, while still respecting proper flag etiquette.
Where should the U.S. flag be placed when displayed on a staff in a church, auditorium, or other public meeting space?
When displayed on a staff, the U.S. flag should be placed to the speaker’s right (audience’s left) in a position of honor, whether on a platform or at floor level.
What is the proper placement of the U.S. flag at an American Legion post meeting?
In compliance with American Legion policy, the U.S. flag and post flag should be displayed on either side, slightly in front of the Commander’s station. The U.S. flag is placed on the Commander’s right, and the post flag on the left when facing the audience, regardless of platform or floor level.
Is it proper to use a set of desk flags in lieu of staffed flags for Legion meetings?
While not inappropriate, the National Americanism Commission strongly recommends, whenever possible, the use of staffed flags, properly presented, for all meetings of The American Legion. (Per The American Legion National Americanism Commission)
Half-staff
What is the significance of displaying the flag at half-staff?
This gesture is a sign to indicate the nation mourns the death of an individual(s), such as death of the president or former president, vice president, Supreme Court justice, member of Congress, secretary of an executive or military department, etc. Only the president or a state governor may order the flag to be displayed at half-staff. The honor and reverence accorded this solemn act is quickly becoming eroded by those individuals and agencies that display the flag at half-staff on inappropriate occasions without proper authority to do so.
When should the flag be at half-staff?
(a) The flag is half-staffed on Memorial Day, from sunrise until noon; it is displayed at full-staff from noon until sunset.
(b) By order of the President of the United States, or by the Governor of any State, territory or possession. On occasion, heads of several departments and agencies of the U.S. Government may direct the flag to half-staff if deemed proper to do so.
Is the flag to be half-staffed for National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (December 7th), and Patriot’s Day (September 11)?
In accordance with U.S. Code, Title 36, Chapter 1, the President of the United States is requested to issue a proclamation to display the flag at half-staff for the entire day.
What happens to the State flag when the flag of the United States is half-staffed?
The State flag or any other flag or pennant in a display is lowered or removed when the flag is at half-staff. As indicated in the Flag Code, no flag or pennant should be placed above the flag of the United States.
Can the mayor order the flag to be half-staffed?
No, only the President of the United States or the Governor of your State may order the flag to be half-staffed.
Those individuals and agencies that usurp authority and display the flag at half-staff on inappropriate occasions are quickly eroding the honor and reverence accorded this solemn act.
Is it proper for a Legion post to lower the United States flag to “half-staff” to honor a deceased member of the post?
No. The lowering of the flag is only authorized on Memorial Day, from sunrise until noon, and by executive order of the President, or State Governor. If it is so desired, the organizational flag may be lowered for this purpose. (Per The American Legion National Americanism Commission)
FLAG CODE MYTH #3:
The mayor, a town official, or the Post Commander can order the flag to be displayed at half-staff.
FALSE: The gesture of placing the flag at half-staff means that the Nation or the state mourns the death of a highly regarded National or state figure, hence only the President of the United States or the Governor of the state may order the Flag to be half-staffed in accordance with Flag Code section 7(m). Those individuals and agencies that usurp authority and display the flag at half-staff on inappropriate occasions are quickly eroding the honor and reverence accorded this solemn act.
Other Flags
What is the order in which flags should be displayed, left to right (when facing)?
- United States flag (first mentioned in precedence in U.S. Flag Code)
- State flag (next in order of precedence per U.S. Flag Code)
- City / county / locality flag (next in order of precedence per U.S. Flag Code)
(following those mentioned above in the U.S. Flag Code are “pennants of societies”, aka flags of organizations or “organizational flags”. The U.S. Flag Code offers no specific hierarchy for precedence of display among any specific organizational flags) - POW/MIA flag (organizational flag – first organizational flag of precedence IAW National Security Commission guidance/opinion; high honor as an organizational flag due to the symbolism it represents)
- U.S. Army (organizational flag)
- U.S. Marine Corps (organizational flag)
- U.S. Navy (organizational flag)
- U.S. Air Force (organizational flag)
- U.S. Space Force (organizational flag)
- U.S. Coast Guard (organizational flag)
- American Legion (organizational flag)
May I display multiple flags on the same flagpole?
Yes. Multiple flags may be flown on the same flagpole, but the U.S. flag must always be at the top and may not be smaller than the others. The Flag Code does not limit how many flags can be displayed, but the number should be based on the pole’s height, flag size, and overall appearance.
What is the order of display of the flags of the other nations?
Accepted practice is to place the flags of other nations in alphabetical order after the United States flag.
How should the U.S. flag be displayed with the United Nations or other national flags?
The U.S. flag must not be displayed below, in place of, or in a position of greater prominence than any other national or international flag. However, international custom allows flags of different nations to be flown at the same height during peacetime.
This rule does not prevent individuals from displaying other national flags on their own property. An exception exists at United Nations headquarters, where the U.N. flag may be displayed in a position of prominence alongside the U.S. flag.
In what order should the flags of the branches of the U.S. Armed Forces be displayed?
The order of march and order display from left to right is the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard.
Can a 48-star flag be displayed?
Even though the fifty-star flag is authorized, no law or provisions of the Flag Code prohibits the use or display of any previously authorized flag of the United States.
Is it permissible to display another flag or pennant above the flag of the United States?
No, except during church services conducted by naval chaplains at sea, the church pennant may be flown above the flag during church services for the personnel of the Navy.
What is the United States Navy church pennant?
The church pennant consists of a blue Latin cross or a blue Star of David on a white background. It is entirely nonsectarian and is flown as a signal that church services are in progress. (U.S. Navy)
What about other types of flags? Are they acceptable?
Our area of expertise is about the care and display of the national flag of the United States that is defined in Presidential Executive Order (E.O.) No. 10834, August 24, 1959. E.O No. 10834, Part 1 (Design of the flag), Section 1 states, "The flag of the United States shall have thirteen horizontal stripes, alternate red and white, and a union consisting of white stars on a field of blue." As such, our organization does not take any position or offer any other comment about any other flag other than the U.S. Flag itself as defined in E.O. No. 10834. This position does not denote our organization's support for or non-support for any causes that may be represented by flags other than the Flag of the United States. There are many decorative, patriotic buntings and banners which people choose to display.
FLAG CODE MYTH #4:
The Flag Code prohibits the display of a United States flag of less than 50 stars.
FALSE: According to the U.S. Army Institute of Heraldry the United States flag never becomes obsolete. Any officially approved American flag, irrespective of the number or arrangement of the stars and/or stripes may continue to be used and displayed until no longer serviceable.
Respect Myths & FAQs
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Use of the Flag
What are the penalties for the physical desecration of the flag?
There are currently no criminal or civil penalties for the physical desecration of the flag. The American Legion and other members of the Citizens Flag Alliance, however, advocate for securing a constitutional amendment to protect the flag from physical desecration.
Can I wear clothing with the U.S. Flag on it?
Yes. Based on a definition of “flag of the United States” in Congress in 1989, wearing clothing that features a flag design is acceptable, as long as it is not made from an actual U.S. flag. The U.S. Flag Code generally applies only to real flags, not printed images or designs.
People often wear flag-themed clothing to show patriotism, though others may have differing personal views on the practice.
How is a “U.S. Flag” defined here?
In 1989, Congress defined the “flag of the United States” as any flag, or part of a flag, made of any material, in any size, that is commonly displayed. This definition does not include clothing, stylized designs, or digital images that resemble the flag.
Can I use a flag decal on a motor vehicle?
The Flag Code does not provide clear guidance on or explicitly prohibit flag decals. If using a decal, the blue field (union) should face forward, as it would on a flag carried forward—this is generally preferred. You can also follow wall display rules, placing the union in the upper left from the observer’s view.
Can the U.S. flag be used in advertising?
The flag should never be used for advertising purposes in any manner whatsoever. Our organization places emphasis of its interpretation and opinion upon the U.S. Flag Code's very specific language of "never" and "in any manner whatsoever" when considering use of the flag, or image of the flag, in association with advertising purposes. Those having concern with interpretation of this section of the U.S. Flag Code might instead consider opting for use of stars and stripes, as well as red, white, and blue colors, to convey a patriotic tone instead using a pattern of the flag.
What is the correct way to wear a flag patch on an American Legion uniform?
By resolution, the flag patch, when placed on an American Legion uniform, may be placed at the shoulder of either sleeve as long as the blue field is forward. Additionally, no emblem, name or patch shall be worn above the flag patch on the same sleeve. The decision as to the sleeve on which the patch is to be worn is left to the judgment of the individual, post or color guard involved. This proviso pertains only to the uniform of The American Legion. (NEC Resolution 38, May 1986)
The provisions of the Flag Code do not specify how the flag patch is to be worn, any other organizations may apply the flag patch as they deem appropriate. This includes members of the military, fire, police, or patriotic organizations.
FLAG CODE MYTH #5:
The Flag Code does provide for penalties for violations of any of its provisions.
FALSE: The Flag Code is simply a guideline for proper flag etiquette. The law does not provide penalties for violation of any of its provisions.
Flag Care, Retirement, and Disposal
What is the proper method for folding the flag?
The Flag Code does not require any specific method. However, a tradition of folding has developed over time that produces a triangular-shaped form, like that of a three-corner hat with only the blue union showing.
Can the flag be washed or dry-cleaned?
Yes. There are no provisions of the Flag Code which prohibit such care. The decision to wash or dry-clean would be dependent on the material. (Per The American Legion National Americanism Commission)
Can the flag be repaired or mended?
There are no provisions of the Flag Code which prohibit the sewing or repairing the flag. We do caution that if material is removed, the flag may no longer conform to the size proportions, as specified in Executive Order 10834.
Are you required to destroy the flag if it touches the ground?
You are not required to destroy the flag if it touches the ground. The U.S. Flag Code states that the flag should not touch anything beneath it, including the ground, and indicates that care should be exercised in the handling of the flag to protect it from becoming soiled or damaged. As long as the flag remains suitable for display, even if washing or dry-cleaning is required, you may continue to display the flag as a symbol of our great country.
How are unserviceable flags destroyed?
The Flag Code suggests that when a flag has served its useful purpose, “it should be destroyed, preferably by burning.” For individual citizens, this should be done discreetly so the act of destruction is not perceived as a protest or desecration. Many American Legion posts conduct disposal of unserviceable flag ceremonies on June 14, Flag Day. Such ceremonies are particularly dignified and solemn occasions for the retirement of unserviceable flags. To find an American Legion post near you to assist with dignified disposal, visit Find a Post.
Can synthetic flags be burned as a means of dignified disposal?
Most U.S. flags today are made of nylon or polyester, which are difficult to dispose of by burning and can release harmful gases. Because of this, federal, state, and local agencies—including the Environmental Protection Agency—have concerns about burning these flags. Burying them is also not recommended, as synthetic materials are not biodegradable.
Instead, consider contacting your local American Legion post to find out if they hold Unserviceable Flag Ceremonies (usually on or around Flag Day each year). You can also look for a licensed disposal service that can safely incinerate synthetic materials at high temperatures and allow for a dignified ceremony. Some funeral homes may also accept flags for cremation with a veteran. You may also check with local or state authorities for guidance on approved disposal options.
How should small graveside flags be retired?
The U.S. Flag Code states that when a flag is no longer serviceable, for example, torn, worn, tattered, frayed, faded, etc., it is no longer a fitting emblem for display. We recommend you consult and coordinate with the management of the cemetery to obtain guidelines they might have specific to their cemetery regarding procedures for placement and retrieval of graveside flags - every cemetery operates under different sets of guidelines and policies.
FLAG CODE MYTH #6:
You must destroy the flag when it touches the ground.
FALSE: As long as the flag remains suitable for display, the flag may continue to be displayed as a symbol of our great country.
FLAG CODE MYTH #7:
The Flag Code states that when the flag is no longer in a condition to display, it is to be disposed of by burning in private.
FALSE: While the U.S. Flag Code does call for disposing of an unserviceable flag “in a dignified way, preferably by burning”, it does not explicitly require this to be in private.
Since 1937, The American Legion has promoted the use of a dignified public flag disposal ceremony. This ceremony is a fitting tribute and an overt expression of patriotism, which enhances the public's understanding of honor and respect due the American flag.
Honor & Remembrance
Can members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform render the military right-hand salute when the flag is hoisted, lowered or is passing?
The law does allow members of the Armed Forces and veterans not in uniform to render the right hand salute, but does not mandate it. If you feel uncomfortable in any situation where the flag is being raised, lowered or is passing in review, the traditional right hand over the heart – with the hat removed – is still a viable and very respectful alternative. (Per The American Legion National Americanism Commission)
What is the history of the three-rifle volley during a military funeral?
The three-rifle volley involves at least three, and up to seven, rifles firing three rounds to honor the fallen. Its origins trace back to Roman times, when soldiers clearing a battlefield would call the name of a fallen comrade three times as a mark of respect.
What is the custom of the twenty-one-gun salute?
The twenty-one-gun salute began as a naval tradition in the 14th century, when warships fired seven guns to show peaceful intent, with shore batteries responding with three shots for each one fired. This practice evolved into the 21-gun salute and was recognized internationally in 1875, when the United States adopted it.
Today, it is used to honor national flags, foreign heads of state, royalty, and U.S. presidents, including during presidential funerals.
During a funeral in which the casket is draped with a United States flag, what is proper conduct?
While not specifically covered by the Flag Code, it is customary to show respect to both the deceased and the flag. Mourners should stand at attention and remove headwear, holding it over the left breast when the casket is moved and during graveside services, including the firing of volleys and the sounding of Taps. Heads are bowed during prayer. In cold or inclement weather, head coverings may remain in place.
Those in uniform render a military salute during the movement of the casket, the firing of volleys, and the sounding of Taps. (Per The American Legion National Americanism Commission)
May a person, other than a veteran have their casket draped with a United States flag?
Yes, although this honor is usually reserved for veterans or highly regarded State and National figures, the Flag Code does not prohibit this use. (Per The American Legion National Americanism Commission)
When should small flags displayed on graves on Memorial Day be removed?
All Legion posts should follow the practice of removing flags from veterans’ graves as soon as possible after Memorial Day.
Can a flag that has covered a casket be displayed after its original use?
There are no provisions in the Flag Code to suggest otherwise. It would be a fitting tribute to the memory of the deceased veteran and his or her service to a grateful nation if the casket flag is displayed.
How is the flag to be displayed on a fully open or half open casket?
When a casket is fully open (full couch), common sense suggests that the flag be folded in the traditional triangular method, placed in the casket cap above the left shoulder of the deceased.
On a half open (half couch) casket, the flag is arranged in three layers of ten-inch folds to cover the closed half of the casket. The blue field will be the top layer on the deceased’s left.
Accepted patriotic practice suggests that when the military service includes cremated remains that the flag be folded in the traditional triangular method and be placed next to the urn.
May a casket flag be used for any proper display purpose?
A flag that has been used to cover a casket can be used for any proper display purpose. There are no provisions in the Flag Code to suggest otherwise.
May a person, other than a veteran, have his or her casket draped with the flag of the United States?
Yes. Although this honor is usually reserved for veterans or highly regarded state and national figures, the Flag Code does not prohibit this use.
How shall Legionnaires in uniform conduct themselves at the graveside?
At the graveside the cap should be held in the right hand over the left breast during the entire service. In cold and inclement weather the cap should not be doffed. (Officer’s Guide)
FLAG CODE MYTH #8:
A flag that has been used to cover a casket cannot be used for any other proper display purpose.
FALSE: A flag that has been used to cover a casket can be used for any proper display purpose to include displaying this flag from a staff or flagpole.
Anthem / Pledge Myths & FAQs
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National Anthem
Is there a specific version of the National Anthem which must be played?
No. The American Legion recommends however, that the National Anthem subtitled “Service Version” written in the key of A-flat be utilized for general mass singing by adults and for band, or other instrumental performances.
Are rock versions of the National Anthem appropriate?
Although not a violation of any prescribed law, The American Legion encourages the use of the “Service Version” played and sung in a traditional manner.
Is it necessary for a person to stand and salute when the National Anthem is sung?
The Flag Code states that during rendition of the National Anthem, those present should stand and render proper respect, which can include a salute for certain persons. Rendition includes singing.
Is it proper to stand when “America,” “God Bless America,” “The Red, White and Blue” and other such patriotic songs are played?
It is not required. However, on occasions when patriotic enthusiasm runs high, it is common practice. (Per The American Legion National Americanism Commission)
Is it appropriate to sing the National Anthem while saluting the flag?
Yes, it is appropriate to sing the National Anthem while saluting the flag; however, since it may be somewhat awkward, unnatural and incongruous to render the military salute while singing, it is permissible to remove the cap with the right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. It is noted that this section pertaining to the National Anthem does not contain the “remain silent” clause associated with the “Pledge of Allegiance.” (Per The American Legion National Americanism Commission)
What is the order when playing the National Anthems of other countries with the Star-Spangled Banner?
Accepted practice calls for the visitor or guest to be honored first followed by the host when the National Anthems of various nations are played.
What is the acceptable practice after the playing or singing of the National Anthem?
The Flag Code is silent as to conduct after the National Anthem has been sung or played. It is perfectly acceptable and common practice to applaud or cheer upon the completion of the playing or singing of the National Anthem.
Can members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform render the military salute in the manner provided for individuals in uniform when the National Anthem is played?
Yes.
Pledge of Allegiance
Who wrote the Pledge of Allegiance?
The original Pledge of Allegiance was written by Francis Bellamy in 1892 and has undergone only a few revisions since.
Can the Pledge of Allegiance be recited without the flag being present?
The flag should be present, however, when situations dictate that it is not present, it would still be appropriate to recite the Pledge. Simply stand and place the right hand over the heart and face towards the person leading in the recitation of the Pledge or to where the flag would normally be placed.
Wearing a Legion cap, is it proper to render the military salute while reciting the “Pledge of Allegiance?”
No. If a person in uniform renders a military salute during the “Pledge” they are to “remain silent.”
If everyone at our Legion meeting is wearing a Legion cap, how is it possible for us to “Pledge Allegiance” to our country, given the answer to the above question?
The National Americanism Commission has deemed it appropriate for Legionnaires to come out of uniform (uncover), placing the cap and right hand over the heart, and reciting the “Pledge.” To do otherwise would be a violation of Flag Code revisions or regulations of The American Legion. (Per The American Legion National Americanism Commission)
Is it proper for female Legionnaires (cap or complete uniform) to remove their Legion caps during the “Pledge of Allegiance,” National Anthem and during prayer?
Since it may be inconvenient for female Legionnaires to remove their caps, it is permissible to conduct themselves as if they were not wearing a cap, i.e., place the right hand over the heart to recite the Pledge and during the National Anthem, and stand in proper manner during prayer. Should she elect to render the military salute during the Pledge, she must “remain silent.” (Per The American Legion National Americanism Commission)
Flag Terminology / Glossary
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Terminology Relating to the U.S. Flag
Band
A narrow strip of canvas along the edge of the flag that goes next to the staff. Sometimes called the “heading.”
Canton
The blue field in the upper left corner of the flag.
Color
In the military service, a national flag carried by unmounted units is called a “color.” The expression “the colors” is used generally in referring to the flag.
Dip
To dip the flag is to lower it at salute. Refers to a flag of an organization, state or city. The U.S. flag is never dipped.
Ensign
In the Navy, the national flag is usually spoken of as the “ensign.”
Finial
The object on the top of a flag pole – generally an arrow, ball or eagle.
Fly
The length of the flag.
Fringe or Gold
Gold braiding placed along the three edges of the flag away from the pole.
Grommet
The eyelet through which the halyard is fastened to the flag.
Half staff
To lower the flag some distance (not necessarily halfway down) from the top of the staff, as a sign of mourning.
Halyard
The rope used to raise the flag. Also called a hoist rope.
Hoist
The width of the flag. To hoist the flag is to raise it to the top of the staff.
Old Glory
Refers to the U.S. flag. This famous name may have been coined in 1831. Some friends presented Capt. William Driver with a 24-star flag. As the banner opened to the ocean breeze, he exclaimed, “Old Glory!”
Peak
The highest point to which a flag can be raised.
Point of Honor
On the U.S. flag, this is the blue field and stars (union).
Staff
Flag pole. On a ship it may be referred to as a mast.
Union
The blue background with white stars, symbolizing the union of the states.
Resources
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U.S. Flag Code
See key U.S. Flag Code sections on display, respect, and etiquette, and find local resources from The American Legion.Learn More -
How to Fold the U.S. Flag
Though not part of the U.S. Flag Code, tradition dictates how we fold the flag.Learn More -
Flag Publications & Resources
Find U.S. flag and patriotic publications, plus shareable content that promotes proper flag etiquette.Learn More
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Find A Legion Post
Interested in attending an Unserviceable Flag Ceremony or learning more about folding the flag? Reach out to your nearest Legion post to find out more. -
Contact Us
If you have further questions about the U.S. Flag, Flag Code, etiquette, and more, please contact the Americanism Division at National Headquarters