Hello my MARtians!
Well, this is a big weekend here at Rosebrook Gardens, my home. As overnight guests arrive, I’ll be rolling out the red carpet no doubt, but also proudly hanging my stars and bars – yup, my American Flag. This month’s landmark Supreme Court decision makes this 4th a bit more meaningful. Now, no one has to “Stop In The Name of Love” – talk about going from one Supremes to the others!
So, I’m stepping up my patriotism and hanging the American flag proudly, but doing this does come with some surprising etiquette do’s and don’ts. Since we all love the idea of paying respect to the flag and the country for which it stands, I thought I would share with you the tips I have learned for hanging your own American flag this weekend.
I found tons of valuable info at USFlag.org. The Flag code, or standards of respect, includes:
- Never use a U.S. flag as an item of decoration. If you think the flag would look great draped over a table or across a sofa, forget about it – opt for bunting instead.
- Keep that flag high and don’t let it touch the ground or any object. When taking the flag down it must be received into your waiting arms, and then don’t forget to fold it neatly for storage.
- Be sure your flag always looks its best. Mend it as needed. Surprisingly, once worn beyond repair it should not be tossed in the trash but burned with reverence.
- When the flag is flown on a pole or staff, the union – better known as the stars – should always be placed at the top. By the way, when a flag is flown hallway up a pole to show mourning, the correct term in the USA is “half-staff”; “half-mast” actually refers to a ship’s mast. Who knew?
- When flown with other flags on the same pole, the U.S. flag should always be at the top, the largest, raised first and lowered last. If flown alongside the flag of another nationality it must be on its own equal sized pole.
- If you are hanging the flag on a wall either vertically or horizontally the union should be at the top to your left.
Remember, although there are many rules and regulations for handling the American flag, do not be overwhelmed. Your pride and patriotism for the country and flag will make your reverence for it come naturally.
Have a MARvellous long weekend and a safe and happy 4th!
