honor your Stars & Stripes

so many people proudly display the American Flag, especially on important national holidays. just a few rules to keep in mind for the proper care, display & retiring of Old Glory:

How to Fold an American Flag
Folding the American flag properly exhibits decorum and respect.

Steps:
1. Have two people stand on either end of the flag, holding a corner in each hand.
2. Fold the flag in half twice, width-wise.
3. Beginning at the striped end, fold one corner into the opposite side of the flag, forming a triangle.
4. Repeat this triangular folding until only a small strip of the star field shows.
5. Tuck this strip into the triangle.
Remember: Keep the flag from touching the ground while folding.

How to Properly Display an American Flag
The U.S. flag should occupy a place of prominence when being displayed. No other flags displayed with it should be larger or hung higher than the U.S. flag. In addition, the U.S. flag should not be allowed to touch the ground, nor should it be dipped to any other flag, person or object.

Steps:
1. Make sure the flag is in respectable condition before you display it. A torn or tattered flag should not be displayed.
2. Make sure the union (blue field with white stars) is at the top of the staff when the flag is displayed on a flagpole.
3. Keep the U.S. flag at the top when more than one flag is flown from the same halyard.
4. When hanging the flag at half-staff, first hoist it to the peak of the pole, then lower it to half-staff. When lowering the flag, hoist it to the peak of the pole again, then lower it. Any other flags flying alongside the U.S. flag should also be lowered to half-staff.
Note: The flag should never be flown during inclement weather which could damage it. A flag flown at night should be properly illuminated.

How to Properly Retire an American Flag
When the flag is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, it should be destroyed in a dignified way. You can locate your local VFW Chapter who can assist you with respectfully retiring your American Flag.

Did you know that you are able to purchase a U.S. Flag that has been flown over the Capitol building?