The American flag holds deep significance and is a central element in many parades and ceremonies, especially those related to national holidays, veteran events, and civic functions. Displaying the flag correctly during these events is crucial to respecting and honoring the country. At Veterans Flag Depot, we understand the importance of following proper flag protocols. Here’s a guide to ensure you handle and display the American flag correctly during parades and ceremonies.
1. Proper Flag Display During Parades
Leading the Parade
- Flag at the Front: The American flag should always be at the front of a procession. It leads the way, symbolizing national pride and respect. If multiple flags are carried (such as state or organizational flags), the American flag should be placed in front and centered.
- Carrying the Flag: When carried in a parade, the flag should be held aloft and free, never allowed to touch the ground. The flag bearer should stand tall, carrying the flag at an angle or completely upright, ensuring it waves freely and visibly.
- Flag Escorts: Often, the American flag is flanked by other flags such as state or military branch flags. In this case, the American flag must be positioned to the right of all other flags (the viewer’s left). If there is a row of flags, the American flag should occupy the center, raised slightly higher than the others if possible.
Flag Respect During the Parade
- Public Salute: Spectators should stand when the American flag passes and place their right hand over their heart. Military personnel in uniform should salute the flag. Civilians may also remove their hats during this moment of respect.
2. Flag Protocols for Ceremonies
Flag Presentation
- Position of Honor: In any ceremony, the American flag should be given the place of honor. It should be to the right of the speaker or onstage, and if displayed with other flags, it must be either centered or in the most prominent position.
- Unveiling and Raising: If the flag is to be raised during a ceremony, it should be done swiftly and respectfully. It should reach the peak of the flagpole briskly, but be lowered slowly and ceremoniously when taken down. The flag should never touch the ground at any point during the raising or lowering process.
Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem
- Standing with Respect: During the Pledge of Allegiance or National Anthem, all participants and audience members should stand, remove their hats, and place their right hand over their heart. Uniformed military personnel should salute.
- Proper Timing: The American flag should be displayed prominently during both the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem. If the flag is being raised during the ceremony, it should reach the top of the flagpole by the time the National Anthem ends.
3. Handling Multiple Flags
Order of Precedence
- American Flag First: If other flags are displayed, the American flag must always be given priority. It should be placed to the right (the flag’s own right, or to the viewer’s left) if other flags are being carried or displayed. This ensures it is the most visible and prominent flag.
- Same Level for Equal Respect: If flown with other flags on separate poles, all flags should be of approximately the same size, and the American flag should be raised first and lowered last.
- One Flag per Pole: Only one flag should be flown on each flagpole, except military memorials that sometimes include POW/MIA flags or state flags below the American flag.
4. Flag Folding During Ceremonies
Folding for Presentation
- Ceremonial Folding: In certain ceremonies, such as memorial services or military funerals, the flag is carefully folded into a triangle. This process includes 13 precise folds, resulting in a triangle with only the blue field of stars visible. This folded flag symbolizes the nation’s respect and is often presented to a family member of the deceased.
- Presenting the Flag: After folding, the flag is handed to the recipient with care. It should be held properly and presented with solemnity, ensuring the highest respect is maintained throughout the process.
5. Flag Protocols for Retiring the Flag
Proper Retirement
- Retirement Ceremony: If the flag is worn, tattered, or damaged beyond repair, it should be retired in a dignified manner, typically through a flag retirement ceremony. The preferred method of retirement is by burning, conducted with care and respect.
- Community Ceremonies: Many organizations, such as the Boy Scouts of America or the American Legion, hold flag retirement ceremonies that involve the burning of the flag with appropriate honors, followed by the burial of its ashes.
6. Flag Illumination and Positioning
Night Displays
- Illumination: If the American flag is displayed at night during a parade or ceremony, it must be properly illuminated. Flag poles or procession floats should have adequate lighting to keep the flag visible and dignified in the darkness.
- Flying at Half-Staff: During national mourning, the flag may be flown at half-staff. It should be raised to the top of the pole briefly before being lowered to half-staff, and it should also be raised to the top of the pole before being lowered at the end of the ceremony or day.
Conclusion
The American flag is a powerful symbol of patriotism, and displaying it during parades and ceremonies comes with important responsibilities. By following these protocols, you ensure that the flag is treated with the dignity and respect it deserves. Whether leading a parade, honoring veterans, or participating in a community event, understanding flag etiquette is key to upholding the values and traditions the flag represents. At Veterans Flag Depot, we are committed to providing high-quality flags and guidance to help you honor the American flag appropriately during all ceremonies and events.
