Flag Etiquette
How To Dispose of A Flag
- American Legion Post 38 conducts a flag disposal ceremony yearly. Such ceremonies are particularly dignified and solemn occasions for the retirement of unserviceable flags.
- The U.S. Flag Code suggests that when a flag has served its useful purpose, is worn or tattered, “it should be destroyed, preferably by burning.” For individual citizens, this should be done discreetly so the act of destruction is not perceived as a protest or desecration. We encourage you to include your old flag with others for the flag retirement ceremony.
- Take your worn flags to one of the following 6 locations and place in flag retirement box located at: American Legion Post 38, South Krogers, North Krogers, Sgt. Joe's, Somerset Mayors' Office, Pulaski County Judge Executives' Office.
- Post 38 will be happy to retire your flags in their next flag disposal ceremony.
- ​Watch for flyers posted throughout the community for future flag disposal ceremonies, usually in May or June of each year. The entire community is encouraged to come and participant at the ceremonies. The children love carrying the flags to the burn barrels.
June 15, 1923
The first "Flag Code" is drafted during a Legion conference in Washington. Congress adopts the code in 1942.Today, the Legion is at the forefront of efforts to pass a constitutional amendment to protect the U.S. flag from physical desecration.
When to Display your Flag
New Year's Day, January 1.
Inauguration Day.
Martin Luther King's Birthday, Third Monday in January.
Lincoln's Birthday.
Washington's Birthday, February 22.
Easter Sunday.
Mother's Day, Second Sunday in May.
Armed Forces Day, Third Saturday in May.
Memorial Day (half-staff until noon), Last Monday in May.
Flag Day, June 14th.
Independence Day, July 4th.
Labor Day, First Monday in September.
Constitution Day, September 17th.
Columbus Day, October 12th.
Navy Day.
Veterans Day, November 11th.
Thanksgiving Day, Fourth Thursday in November.
Christmas Day, December 25th.
Election Days (various).
Federally observed dates of the above holidays which may be different from the actual dates.
Such days as may be proclaimed by the President of the United States.
State and Local Holidays.
Displaying an American Flag is a great way to show off your love for your country. However, your act of patriotism can quickly become (unintentionally) disrespectful if you're unaware of an important set of rules. The U.S. Flag Code established by Congress in 1942 offers guidelines for treating this national symbol with dignity. Brush up on your flag etiquette by learning how to fly the Stars and Stripes the right way.
Display the American flag the right way.
Don't hang your flag backwards, upside down, or in another inappropriate fashion. If you're hanging your flag vertically (like from a window or against a wall), the Union portion with the stars should go on the observer's left. Never dip the flag to any person or anything.
Avoid letting the flag touch the ground.
Prevent your flag from touching the ground, floor, or water. It's not necessary to dispose of your flag if it accidentally hits the pavement, but you should make sure that it's in good condition before displaying it again.