Flag Etiquette, When to Salute: Things to Know

June 14 is Flag Day. It commemorates the adoption of the United States Flag on June 14, 1777.

During ceremonies when the flag is hoisted or raised, spectators who aren’t in military uniform should face the flag, stand at attention and place their right hands over their hearts. Others should:

• If you’re in uniform, give a proper military salute;
• If you're a man who is not in uniform, but you're wearing a hat, take it off with your right hand and hold it at your left shoulder so your palm rests on your heart;
• If you’re not a U.S. citizen, stand at attention.

When the flag advances in a moving column, it is appropriate to salute it as it passes.

• The federal flag code says the universal custom is to display the U.S. flag from sunrise to sunset on buildings and stationary flagstaffs in the open, but when a patriotic effect is desired the flag may be displayed 24-hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.
• The U.S. flag should not be displayed when the weather is inclement, except when an all-weather flag is displayed.
• For most homeowners with one flagpole, the U.S. flag is at the peak, above any other flag.
• The U.S. flag should not be torn, ripped or in any way wrapped around the pole or snagged in the lines. It should fly free and be able to move around the pole unobstructed.
• A U.S. flag should never be used as clothing or for decoration.
• Red, white and blue bunting is the proper method for decoration on porches, windows, etc.
• According to the State of Connecticut website - www.ct.gov- on special days, the flag may be flown at half-staff.
• On Memorial Day, the flag is flown at half-staff until noon and then raised.
• Do not let the flag touch the ground.
• Do not carry the flag flat, or carry things in it.
• Do not store the flag where it can get dirty.
• Do not use the flag as a cover.
• Do not fasten the flag or tie it back. Always allow it to fall free.
• Do not draw on, or otherwise mark the flag.
• When a U.S. flag is no longer able to be flown properly, disposal by burning is required.

Make sure flag is in pristine condition and isn’t tattered and torn, and that its red and white stripes and the union (the blue field of stars) are bright and vibrant. If the flag is no longer suitable for display, dispose of it properly, preferably in a ceremonial burning. American Legion posts and other veteran groups often have flag-disposal ceremonies.

Source: U.S. Flag Code