Every year on June 14, Americans celebrate Flag Day and recognize the enduring symbol of our nation’s history and unity. As we honor the flag this year, we also look ahead to a historic milestone: the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026.
As our nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, we are reminded that the American flag stands as a powerful symbol of freedom and opportunity. It also serves as a visible reminder of the brave Service Members who defend our country and protect the liberties we cherish.
To ensure the flag is displayed with the respect it deserves, the U.S. Flag Code provides guidance for its proper care and presentation.
Displaying the U.S. Flag: A Symbol of Patriotism
Respectful Handling
The American flag should never touch anything beneath it, including the ground, floor, or water. This longstanding guideline reflects the honor and respect afforded to the nation’s flag and the ideals it represents.
Proper Orientation
When carried in a procession or displayed during a ceremony, the flag should always be held aloft and free. It should never be carried flat or horizontally, ensuring it remains a proud and visible symbol of the nation.
Correct Placement
When hanging the flag vertically from a wall, window, or doorway, the blue field of stars, known as the Union, should be positioned to the observer’s left. Proper placement helps maintain a respectful and consistent presentation.
Half-staff Protocol
On designated occasions, including periods of national mourning and days established to honor those who have served, the flag is flown at half-staff. When lowering the flag to half-staff, it should first be raised briskly to the peak of the pole before being lowered. At the end of the day, it should again be raised to the peak before being fully lowered.
Honoring Retired Flags
Over time, flags may become worn, faded, or damaged from use and exposure to the elements. When a flag is no longer fit for display, the U.S. Flag Code states that it should be retired in a dignified manner, preferably by burning. Many local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) posts and American Legion chapters conduct ceremonial flag retirement services, often held on or around Flag Day, providing communities with a meaningful way to honor retired flags.
As we celebrate Flag Day and look ahead to America’s 250th anniversary, we are reminded that the freedoms symbolized by the Stars and Stripes are protected every day by those willing to serve.
This spirit of service is at the heart of Homes For Our Troops’ Days of Giving campaign, which brings supporters together to help provide specially adapted custom homes for severely injured post-9/11 Veterans. By supporting these Veterans and their families, we help ensure they can rebuild their lives with greater independence and stability.
Learn more about the Days of Giving campaign and how you can make a difference: Days of Giving Campaign