Official etiquette for the use and display of the American flag was first set down by the National Flag Code, which was adopted June 14, 1923. On Dec. 22, 1942, the rules were approved by Congress and became federal law.
Flying the Flag
Fly the flag from sunrise to sunset. If displayed at night, the flag must be lighted. Don’t fly the flag on rainy days. Always place the union (the blue field) at the peak or top end of the flagstaff or flagpole.
Carrying the Flag
In a parade, carry the flag at the center of the front rank. Never allow the flag to touch the ground or drag along the ground. Never dip the flag as a show of respect to a person. Always protect the flag from possible damage. If the flag is damaged or severely worn, remove it from display and dispose of it by burning.
Wearing the Flag
Don’t wear the flag as a hat or as a piece of clothing. Don’t wear it as a team uniform or as part of a uniform. Small pins or buttons representing the flag can be worn by persons in uniform, such as police officers or military veterans.
The Flag at Half-Staff
Lower the flag to half-staff to show respect for the death of an important individual, such as a president, or solemnity for a tragic event. First raise the flag to its full height and then bring it slowly down to a position halfway up the mast or flagpole.
In situations of distress, signal your emergency by flying the flag upside down. This is the only occasion on which it is proper to display the flag upside down.
Banners and Signs
Don’t attach any messages, signs, symbols or caricatures to the flag, or use the flag as part of a commercial display. Never use the flag to advertise. The flag must fly above any state flags or other banners that are hoisted on the same flagstaff.
Flying the Flag at School
At school, the flag should be flown in front of the principal building. Raise the flag before classes begin in the morning and lower it at the end of the day.