The flag is lowered by moving the pole into the lower part of the bracket so the pole is more parallel to the ground. This is what the "chin" loop is for. Some house brackets have a knob so a knurled bracket can be loosened, the pole lowered and then the bracket tightened to hold the flag at a lower angle.
Full Answer
What are the rules for lowering the flag?
These are some of the core "rules" of American flag etiquette:
- The flag should usually be displayed from sunrise to sunset.
- The flag should be raised briskly.
- The flag should be lowered ceremoniously.
- The flag should never touch the ground.
- The flag should not be flown in inclement weather unless it is an all-weather flag. ...
What is the reason for lowering the flag?
the traditional purpose of a flag is to identify the HQ to the troops, and to lead into battle. since battles were not done at night, lowering the flag in the evening told the soldiers that the work day was done and they could rest. in America, the flag can be flown at night if it is illuminated for public display. otherwise not lowering the flag is considered disrespectful, you being too lazy to take care of it, just leaving it up on the pole until it eventually tatters and blows away.
How should people fold a flag?
Method 3 of 4: Method Three: Folding a British Flag for Breaking
- Hold the flag taut. This can be done with as few as two people. ...
- Fold the flag in half lengthwise. Both participants should fold the bottom edge of the flag under so that it meets with the top edge.
- Fold the flag into quarters. ...
- Bring up the bottom third of the length. ...
- Roll the remaining length up to the heading. ...
- Tie together with light cotton. ...
How should the flag be lowered half staff?
“The flag, when flown at half-staff, should be first hoisted to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. The flag should be again raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day. ]
What is the procedure of lowering the flag?
Flag Lowering The flag should be lowered slowly, with dignity and ceremony. Salute the flag while it is being lowered. Hold your salute until the flag is removed or, if there is music, until the music stops. If the flag was flying at half staff, raise the flag all the way to the top of the flagpole and then lower it.
Can you lower the flag for anyone?
No. According to the Flag Code, only the President of the United States, your state's Governor, and the Mayor of the District of Columbia can order the US flag lowered to half-staff. If everyone were to half-staff the US flag at will, the symbolic value of that honor would be lost.
How do you raise and lower a flag?
When raising the flag, hoist briskly to the top of the pole. When lowering, it is to be done slowly and respectfully. The flag should not touch the ground or floor beneath it. “Half-staff” refers to the point on the flagpole which is halfway between the top and the bottom of the pole.
Do I have to lower my flag every night?
Traditional guidelines call for displaying the flag in public only from sunrise to sunset. However, the flag may be displayed at all times if it's illuminated during darkness.
What time should you lower the flag?
The Flag Code states it is the universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on stationary flag staffs in the open. However, when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.
When should I lower my flag?
Lowering the flag is a sign of respect, mourning or distress. Most English-speaking countries use the term half-mast, but in the United States, that refers only to flags flown on ships. In the U.S., lowering the flag traditionally signals that the country or a state is in mourning.
What is lowering the flag called?
Half-mast (British, Canadian and Australian English) or half-staff (American English) refers to a flag flying below the summit of a ship mast, a pole on land, or a pole on a building. In many countries this is seen as a symbol of respect, mourning, distress, or, in some cases, a salute.
What does lowering the flag mean?
of respect, mourning or distressLowering the flag is a sign of respect, mourning or distress. Most English-speaking countries use the term half-mast, but in the United States, that refers only to flags flown on ships. In the U.S., lowering the flag traditionally signals that the country or a state is in mourning.
How do you display the American flag on a house?
When a flag is displayed vertically in a window or against a wall, the union field should be uppermost and to the flag's right. (The flag's right is the observer's left.) When a flag is displayed from the front of a building, the union should be at the peak of the staff, unless the flag is at half-staff.
What are 3 things one should never do out of respect to the flag?
The flag should never be carried flat or horizontally, but always aloft and free. The flag should never be fastened, displayed, used, or stored so that it might be easily torn, soiled, or damaged in any way. The flag should never be used as covering for a ceiling. The flag should never have anything placed on it.
Can the American flag be flown at night without a light?
Only fly a flag at night if it is illuminated. Custom dictates that you should display flags only from sunrise to sunset, but you can keep the stars and stripes flying 24 hours a day if it is properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.
Why do you need a light on a flag at night?
Without illumination, no one will be able to see your American flag during the nighttime hours. When the sun goes down, your American flag will fade from visibility. As a result, it's recommended that you illuminate the American flag when displaying it at night.
Can you fly a flag at half-mast for anyone?
Answer: No, only the President of the United States or the Governor of your State may order the flag to be half-staffed. Those individuals and agencies that usurp authority and display the flag at half-staff on inappropriate occasions are quickly eroding the honor and reverence accorded this solemn act.
What is the protocol for lowering the flag to half-staff?
When hoisting a flag that is to be displayed at half-mast, it should be raised to the finial of the pole for an instant, then lowered to half-mast. Likewise, when the flag is lowered at the end of the day, it should be hoisted to the finial for an instant, and then lowered.
Why do people lower the flag at night?
According to the US Flag Code, all American flags should be displayed from sunrise to sunset every day. Lowering the flag at night is an ultimate sign of respect for Old Glory.
What is the proper flag etiquette?
From your porch, place the union (blue section) at the peak of the staff. Against a wall or on a window, place the union (blue section) at the top left corner. On your vehicle, clamp the staff to the right front fender. With another flag, place the U.S. flag to your left when crossed.
Who Is Required to Lower Flags to Half Staff?from unfoldedmagzine.com
The President of the United States may issue a proclamation to lower flags to half staff. These proclamations apply to the entire nation as well as US embassies. More specifically, they apply to flags flown outside of federal buildings or on federal grounds, US navy vessels, and the buildings or grounds belonging to US embassies.
How long does it take for the flag to be lowered after the death of the current vice president?from unfoldedmagzine.com
The death of the current vice president, chief justice, former chief justice, or speaker of the House of Representatives (flags lowered for 10 days)
Why do flags fly at half staff?from unfoldedmagzine.com
We often see American flags flying at half staff to honor lives lost or significant tragedies in our state, nation, or global community. Now, you can decide when to participate and do so properly with our guide to lowering the American flag to half staff.
What does it mean when the flag is half staff?from flagcenter.com
In the event of the death of a present or former official of the government of any State, territory, or possession of the U.S., the Governor of that State, territory, or possession may proclaim that the National Flag shall be flown at half-staff.
How to show respect to a flag?from unfoldedmagzine.com
First, you are to lower your flag to its highest point for a brief moment before lowering it to the halfway point on your flag pole. You may attach your flag to the second set of rings if you have a telescoping flag pole.
Why is the flag at half mast?from flagcenter.com
By order of the President, the flag shall be flown at half-staff upon the death of principal figures of the United States Government and the Governor of a State, territory, or possession, as a mark of respect to their memory. In the event of the death of other officials or foreign dignitaries, the flag is to be displayed at half-staff according ...
When do you raise the flag at sunset?from unfoldedmagzine.com
At sunset, you will quickly raise the flag to the highest point once more before bringing it all the way down for the night. Note that on certain days, such as Memorial Day, you are expected to raise your flag back to its highest point at noon and leave it there until sunset.
How to make a flag come out parallel to the ground?
If your flag mount has 2 angles (such as the one seen here, left), as long as the flag won’t touch the ground, you can use the lower mount bracket . In this case, instead of being pointed straight up, the flag will come out approximately parallel to the ground. This method is not as common, but still recognized.
How long should a streamer be on a flag?
In this case, the streamer should be about the same width as a single stripe on the flag, and at least as long as the flag. It should be be attached right below the spearhead so that it flies freely above the flag itself.
Do you have to lower the flag to half staff?
First off, it’s important to note that American flags on display at residential locations are not required to be lowered to half staff, even when the US President or a state Governor issues a proclamation to lower the US flag. In fact, it is not even expected.
Can you lower a flag with a pulley?
But if you have a flag pole at home, you are welcome to lower your flag as well. If you have a vertical flag pole with a pulley system, you would follow the same standard procedures (raising to the top quickly, then lowering to the correct position ceremoniously).
What is the most important consideration when hanging flags on houses?
Scale is the most important consideration when hanging flags on houses.
Where to hang a solitary flag?
Hang a solitary flag on a porch post for a simple and classic look for any house.
When displaying more than one flag, should the flag be flown to the observer's left?
When displaying more than one flag, the U.S. flag should be flown to the observer's left, as shown.
When is half staff for the flag?
There are a few days when it is recommended to fly the flag at half staff: May 15, which is Peace Officers Memorial Day; September 11; the Sunday of Fire Prevention Week (early October); and December 7, which is National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.
Where is the starry part in the flag?
If you choose to suspend a flag, whether horizontally or vertically, be sure the union (the starry part) is in the upper left, like this ...
Do you have to lower the flag every night?
How to hang a flag on a flagpole. If you are lucky enough to have a flagpole, you might already know it’s not necessary to lower your flag every night as long as it is illuminated; however, the flag should be removed in inclement weather.
Do you have to match flags with hanging baskets?
Don’t worry if red flowers aren’t your style. You don’t have to match your hanging baskets or planters with the flag; it goes with everything.
What does it mean to lower the flag to half staff?
Lowering the flag is a sign of respect, mourning or distress. Most English-speaking countries use the term half-mast, but in the United States, that refers only to flags flown on ships.
When is it appropriate to lower the flag?
There are certain commemorative days when it is customary to lower the flag to half staff: Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15, unless that day is also Armed Forces Day), Memorial Day (last Monday in May, from sunrise to noon), Patriot Day (Sept.
How long does the flag remain at half staff?
According to the U.S. Flag Code, codified by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1954, flags are to be flown at half-staff on all buildings, grounds, and naval vessels of the federal government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its territories and possessions for these periods:
How to display a flag against a wall?
Should you chose to display a flag in your home against a wall follow these rules. First, it needs to lie flat against the wall. Next, whether hung vertically or horizontally, the union must be in the uppermost and to the flag’s own right corner. Which means, it is to the observer’s left.
When you suspend a flag over a sidewalk from a rope, should the flag be hoisted out?
If you suspend your flag over a sidewalk from a rope extending from the house to a pole at the edge of the sidewalk, the flag should be hoisted out, union (stars) first.
When displaying your flag in the morning, do you raise it?
Raise and Lower with Respect. When displaying your flag in the morning it is to be hoisted briskly. Conversely, in the evening, it should be lowered ceremoniously. When the flag is lowered, make sure that no part of it touches the ground. Neatly fold your flag for storage.
What does the American flag represent?
American Flag Etiquette for Your Home. The flag of the United States of America is a bold symbol of freedom and represents a strong sense of national pride. Many U.S. citizens feel so passionately about what the flag represents that they choose to display one at their home.
How long can you fly the flag?
It is customary to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and stationary flagstaffs in the open. However, you may fly the colors 24 hours a day if it is properly illuminated during the evening.
When should the flag be at half staff?
When displaying at half-staff, your flag needs to be hoisted to the peak for an instant, then lowered to half position. These times are usually ordered by the President. Other moments, such as Memorial Day carry specific guidelines. The flag is flown at half until noon, then hoisted to the peak for the remainder of the day.
When you display your flag horizontally, should the union be placed at the peak?
When you display your flag diagonally or horizontally from a pole hung on your porch or balcony, the union should be placed at the peak. Unless it is flying at half -staff. Also, never fly your flag upside down. This is seen as a distress signal.
How do I lower my flag properly?
First, raise the flag briefly to its highest point and then lower it halfway down. If your flag is fastened to a telescoping pole it is acceptable to attach it to the second set of rings.
When is it appropriate to lower the flag?
There are certain commemorative days when it is customary to lower the flag to half staff: Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15, unless that day is also Armed Forces Day), Memorial Day (last Monday in May, from sunrise to noon), Patriot Day (Sept. 11), National Firefighters Memorial Day (typically a Sunday during Fire Prevention Week), and Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (Dec. 7).
What does it mean to lower the flag to half staff?
Lowering the flag is a sign of respect, mourning or distress. Most English-speaking countries use the term half-mast, but in the United States, that refers only to flags flown on ships.
How long does the flag remain at half staff?
According to the U.S. Flag Code, codified by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1954, flags are to be flown at half-staff on all buildings, grounds, and naval vessels of the federal government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its territories and possessions for these periods:
Who can order a half staffing?
Only the president can issue a proclamation for the entire country and U.S. embassies.
Can Gov. DeSantis order a proclamation for flags to be flown half-staff for Rush Limbaugh?
Yes. Florida law directs the governor’s office to develop guidelines, but says flags may be lowered "upon the death of high-ranking state officials, uniformed law enforcement and fire service personnel, and prominent citizens."
What about the American flags on my house or office?
Federal half-staff proclamations apply only to federal buildings and grounds, to U.S. naval vessels, and to United States embassies. State proclamations apply only to government buildings and holdings.
How high should the British flag be lowered?from flagmakers.co.uk
At Flagmakers and most British institutions we recommend that the flag should be lowered to approximately a third from the top of the flagpole, This is visually easier to judge than the other two methods and leaves the viewer in no doubt that the flag has been deliberately set at that height.
How far down should the flag be?from flagmakers.co.uk
Most people take the phrase literally and position the flag around halfway down the structure. However, others recommend that a flag should only be lowered by one breadth - or width – of the flag (the length of the longest edge).
Why are the flags at half mast in Michigan?from flagsexpress.com
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags to be lowered to half-sta ff throughout the state of Michigan on Friday, November 5 to honor the service of Army Pfc. John A. Shelemba.“On …
What does it mean when the flag is half staff?from flagcenter.com
In the event of the death of a present or former official of the government of any State, territory, or possession of the U.S., the Governor of that State, territory, or possession may proclaim that the National Flag shall be flown at half-staff.
Why are the flags at half staff in Delaware?from flagsexpress.com
In honor of the incredible life and distinguished public service of Governor Ruth Ann Minner, Governor Carney has ordered Delaware flags to be lowered to half-staff at all State buildings and faciliti …
How to order a flag that has flown over the Capitol?from usa.gov
To order a U.S. flag that has flown over the Capitol, contact your senator's office. According to U.S. Flag Code, a worn out American flag should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.
When did the Iowa flag go to half mast?from flagsexpress.com
Gov. Kim Reynolds ordered all flags in Iowa to be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Saturday July 3rd, 2021 in honor and remembrance of LaMetta Wynn who served as the mayor of Clinton an …
Where should flags be on the wall?
If these flags are hanging from a wall, they should be on the left of the flag.
Why do you need to remove the flag on rainy days?
You may also need to remove the flag or guard it on rainy days to prevent it from getting dirty.
What is bunting on a flag?
Bunting is any decorative item made of fabric or any other material that imitates fabric, which includes the colors of the flag. Many of these are often hung from balconies, fences, and windowsills during Independence Day events or special parades. When placing flag bunting, make sure the blue stripe is on top.
What is flag etiquette?
Flag etiquette is a set of rules that oversee the way a flag should be treated in order to display respect for the nation it represents. This includes how it is exhibited, but also how it should be handled and even disposed of.
Why do we fly the flag from our home?
Choosing to fly the country’s flag from your home or backyard is a great way to express your pride in the country. The rules listed above are meant to be only guidelines. However, respecting them is a great way of honoring the military personnel and the first responders (including policemen and firefighters) who have been defending the flag for centuries.
What does the flag represent?
Our country’s flag is one of our nation’s most prized symbols. Not only does it represent the pride that every American feels for their country, but its color combinations are now deemed to represent the United States of America (and the values it stands for) all around the world.
When should you fly the flag at half staff?
During national days of mourning or remembrance, it is best to fly your flag at half-staff. When you do this, always lift the flag fully for a moment and then slowly lower it to the half-staff position. When at half-staff, the distance between the top of the flag and the peak should be the same as between the bottom of the flag and the end of the flagpole.
When you take your flag down, do you raise it to full staff?
If you take your flag in at night and head out in the morning to fly your flag at half-staff, then you would first raise it to full-staff for a moment, and then lower it for the day. When taking it down in the evening you would also raise it to full staff before bringing it down and removing it for the night.
What is the ribbon on the American flag?
It is a black mourning ribbon, the same size as the bottom stripe of your flag, that is attached to the top of the American flag.
Is the flag at half mast on Patriot Day?
A: Yes , Patriot Day is one of the official days for American flags to fly at half-staff throughout the USA. Each year the President will put out a new proclamation talking about the significance of the day and it will specify that flags are to be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on that day. Click on the links below to see past ...
