Memorial Day Flag Etiquette, When To Salute: 5 Things To Know

Many Americans pausing Monday on Memorial Day to remember military service members who died serving their countries will fly their flags at half-staff in mournful tribute and appreciation for their sacrifices. But the ritual is not as simple as raising the flag halfway up the pole and locking it in place.

Here are five things to know about proper flag etiquette on Memorial Day, as well as how to properly show respect as the colors are presented in ceremonies being held around the country this weekend.

The flag should be displayed at half-staff until noon only on Memorial Day, and then should be raised to the top of the staff.

When raising the flag to half-staff, it “should be hoisted to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position,” according to the U.S. flag code (Title 4 Chapter 1, Section 7). “The flag should again be raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day.”

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;
• A man who is not in uniform, but is wearing a hat should take it off with his right hand and hold it at his left shoulder with his palm resting on his heart;
• If you’re not a U.S. citizen, stand at attention.

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

Make sure flag is in pristine condition and isn’t tattered and torn, and that its red and white bars 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.

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