Flag Etiquette

With one quick glance at a flag, it can convey information, represent a country or attract attention. Originally, flags were used on the battlefields to send messages (that is where waving a white flag became a signal of surrender). These days, flags are still used for the purpose of communication, especially on the water, where making contact is difficult. And we all know nothing shows your pride for your country like displaying your nation’s flag. And we definitely know what it means when the checkered flag is waved at the end of the race. It’s crazy that they contain so much information, right?

But, flags are not merely colorful pieces of cloth attached to a pole. They mean something by their very definition of communication and representation. And the importance of their symbolism means they are definitely owed some respect by the user. Do you think I’m kidding? How would you feel to see Old Glory tossed away on the side of the road, half buried in a mud puddle? And how strong of a message of hate is sent by someone burning a country’s flag? Flag etiquette is a serious business.

Most people know the basics of US flag etiquette, but, we’ve also included articles on flag flying etiquette, flag disposal etiquette (you may be surprised to find out exactly what this is) and flag etiquette for harbormasters (they have built their own nautical language out of flags!) so you can brush up on your knowledge and keep that Star Spangled Banner waving over the land of the free and the home of the brave…properly.