The Sisyphus Comments

Today is Flag Day

Flag Day is a day for Americans to celebrate and show respect for our flag, its designers and makers. Our flag is a symbol of our independence and unity as a nation. Our flag has a proud history. It has been present at every battle fought by Americans and many people have died protecting it. It even stands proudly on the surface of the moon. As Americans, we have every right to be proud of our culture, our nation, and our flag. So raise the flag today and every day with pride!

Here are the basics of proper flag display:

• The flag is normally flown from sunrise to sunset.
• In the morning, raise the flag briskly. At sunset, lower it slowly. (Always raise and lower it ceremoniously).
• The flag should not be flown at night without a light on it.
• The flag should not be flown in the rain or inclement weather.
• After a tragedy or death, the flag is flown at half staff for 30 days. It’s called “half staff” on land ,and “half mast” on a ship.
• When flown vertically on a pole, the stars and blue field , or “union”, is at the top and at the end of the pole (away from your house).
• The American flag is always flown at the top of the pole. Your state flag and other flags fly below it.
• The union is always on top. When displayed in print, the stars and blue field are always on the left.
• Never let your flag touch the ground.
• Fold your flag when storing. Don’t just stuff it in a drawer or box.
• Old flags should be burned or buried. Do not throw it in the trash.

For a more detailed list of flag display rules, visit FlagandBanner.com.

There is a very special ceremony for retiring the flag by burning it. It is a ceremony everyone should see. Your local Boy Scout group or American Legion post performs it on a regular basis. If you have an old flag, give it to them and attend the ceremony.