by Marylin Butorac, Community Correspondant
June 14th of each year is designated “Flag Day” and is celebrated with parades, essay contests, ceremonies, and picnics sponsored by veterans’ groups, schools, and groups like the National Flag Day foundation whose goal is to preserve the traditions, history, pride, and respect that are due the nation’s symbol, Old Glory.
When you display the flag at your home, remember the following points from the US Flag Code.
• Display the U.S. flag from sunrise to sunset. After sunset the flag must be lighted.
• The US flag should fly above state and local flags.
• On Memorial Day it is flown at half-staff until noon and then raised.
• When displayed either horizontally or vertically against a wall (or other flat surface), the stars should be uppermost and to the flag’s own right, that is, to the observer’s left.
• When displayed in a window it should be displayed in the same way — with the union or blue field to the left of the observer in the street.
When saluting the flag DO the following:
• Face the flag and stand at attention with the right hand over the heart. Head coverings should be removed.
General Flag Etiquette
• Don’t let the flag touch the ground.
• Don’t fly flag upside down unless there is an emergency.
• Don’t use the flag as clothing.
• Don’t store the flag where it can get dirty.
• Don’t use it as a cover.
• Don’t fasten it or tie it back. Always allow it to fall free.
• Don’t draw on, or otherwise mark the flag.
• Don’t throw your flag away when it is worn out. It must be disposed of properly, preferably by burning. Your local VFW, boy and girl scouts or military institutions can assist you in respectfully retiring your flag.
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