Unfolding Tradition: American Flag Folding & Etiquette

The American Flag proudly waves as a symbol of our great nation. Its 50 stars represent the fifty states of the United States of America, while the 13 stripes pay homage to the original colonies established by our ancestors over 200 years ago. Each color holds a significant meaning: red for valor and sacrifice, white for innocence and purity, and blue for perseverance and justice. Join us on this blog as we explore the proper American flag handling and American Flag etiquette, honoring its sacred symbolism.

Understanding the Makeup of the American Flag

Hoist: The vertical edge of the flag that attaches to the flagpole, determining its height.

Fly: The horizontal top edge of the flag, representing its length and breadth.

Fly End: The opposite end of the flag from the flagpole, signifying independence and freedom.

Canton: The upper left-hand corner of the flag, characterized by a blue area adorned with stars, symbolizing unity and the states of our nation.

Field or Ground: The face of the flag, consisting of alternating red and white stripes, representing the resilience, bravery, and enduring spirit of America.

Honoring American Flag Etiquette

Our beloved flag stands as a powerful symbol of our nation and its enduring ideals. To show proper respect and care, it’s important to adhere to the following codes of etiquette when handling the American Flag:

1. Never let the American flag touch the ground or floor—it deserves to be held high and revered.
2. Stepping on the flag should never be done, as it symbolizes the respect we have for our country.
3. The flag should not be used as clothing, bedding, or drapery. However, during funerals, decorative flags can be used to honor and pay respects.
4. Avoid bunching up the flag in any way; instead, let it fly freely, symbolizing the freedom we hold dear.
5. Using the flag as a shelter ceiling is not appropriate, as it should always be proudly displayed and respected.
6. Handle, display, and store the flag in a manner that prevents it from being torn, soiled, or damaged.
7. Keep the flag free from any marks, insignia, letters, words, numbers, figures, or drawings—let it stand as a pure symbol of our nation.
8. The flag should never be used as a container or receptacle for any purpose.
9. During parades, refrain from draping the flag over vehicles, trains, or boats. If displaying the flag on a car or truck, securely attach the staff to the chassis or right fender.
10. When lowering the flag, ensure no part of it touches the ground or any other object. It should be received with reverence by waiting hands and arms.
11. Properly clean and mend the flag when necessary to maintain its dignity and representation of our nation.
12. Unless an all-weather flag is used, avoid flying the flag in inclement weather—this shows respect for its condition.
13. When the flag becomes tattered beyond repair, it should be retired in a dignified manner through ceremonial burning. Organizations such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion, The Boy Scouts of America, and branches of the military conduct these ceremonies—bring old flags to them for proper disposal.
14. Wherever the American flag is hung or flown, it should have the freedom to wave and should not touch anything beneath it.
15. To store the American flag, follow the proper folding protocol, performing the ceremony with reverence and care.

By upholding these guidelines, we demonstrate our unwavering respect for the American flag and all that it represents. Let us cherish and honor this enduring symbol of our nation’s unity and freedom.

How To Fold an American Flag

There is a specific way to properly fold the American flag. Follow these instructions from USFlag.org:

1. Begin by holding the flag waist-high with another person. The field or face of the flag should be parallel to the ground. Remember to hold the flag tight throughout each step to keep it from touching the ground.

2. Fold the flag in half lengthwise so the stripes meet the stars. Now hold the flag waist-high again with the stars facing down, and the stripes facing up.

3. Fold the flag lengthwise again so the stars are on the outside.

4. Make a triangular fold on the striped end by bringing the corner up at a right angle to meet the open edge of the flag. The other person should be holding the striped end firmly in place throughout the rest of the steps.

5. Turn the outer tip of your first triangle inward, parallel to the open edge, to form a second triangle. flatten any wrinkles or creases you see before making the next fold.

6. Repeat step five until the flag is completely folded.

7. When the flag is completely folded, it should be a small triangle, with only blue and stars showing.

Take care of this precious symbol of our republic and fly it proudly throughout the year!

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