How to Hang a Flag

Did you know that there is a right way to hang the American flag? Not only is a proper hanging and display of the American flag a sign of respect and tribute to all those who have served and sacrificed for the United States, it is also technically the law! The proper manner of hanging the American flag are actually governed by law. Title 4, chapter 1 of the United States Code lays out all the rules and regulations that govern the display of the American flag.

Plus, whether you're celebrating Memorial Day, Independence Day, Veterans Day, or any other holiday, it's great to be able to demonstrate to family, friends, and kids the American flag etiquette.

If you're confused about the proper way to hang Old Glory, read on to learn how to hang a flag, and make sure your American flag display--or any other seasonal flag, for that matter--is top notch and proper.

Step 1: General Rules for Hanging the American Flag

  1. The American flag should never be hung lower than another flag.
  2. The American flag should be the top flag if several flags are hung on the same pole.
  3. If several flags are displayed, each on its own pole, the U.S. flag should be raised first and lowered last.
  4. The American flag should always been hung, not draped, with the only exception being that of draping the flag over a casket.
  5. If the flag is displayed at half-mast as an official symbol of morning, it should be raised to the top of the pole when originally hoist, then lowered to the half way point. At the end of the day, the flag should be raised to the top of the pole before being lowered.
  6. The flag should only be hung upside down as a distress symbol.

Step 2: How to Hang a Flag Outdoors

  1. When hanging the American flag on a building it should be hung on a staff or on a rope over the sidewalk with the stars away from the building.
  2. If the flag is hung over the street, it should be hung with the stars to the east on a north- south street or north on an east-west street.
  3. A flag that is hung in a window should be hung vertically with the stars to the left of anyone looking at it from the street side.

Step 3: How to Hang a Flag Indoors

  1. If the flag is hung behind a speaker, hang the flag flat on the wall with the stars in the upper left quarter.
  2. If a flag is placed next to a speaker, it should be placed in a stand on the speaker’s right.
  3. When a flag is hung in a hallway, it should be hung vertically across from the main entrance with the stars to the left of anyone entering the hallway.

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