
These are some basic rules for raising and lowering the US flag. The most important rule to remember is to always treat the US flag with dignity and respect. It is the symbol of the United States of America. Remember that many men and women have given their lives defending the liberty and freedom it represents.
Raising and Lowering the United States Flag
Flag Raising
- The flag should be hoisted quickly.
- The flag should be flown at the top of the flagpole, unless the flag is being flown at half staff.
- Salute the flag while it is being raised.
- If you are flying the flag at half staff, raise the flag all the way to the top of the pole and then lower it to halfway between the top and the bottom of the flagpole.
- If flying the US flag with other flags, raise the US flag first.
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.
- If you are displaying multiple flags, lower the US flag last.
- Fold the flag correctly before storing it.
Notes for Flag Raising and Lowering
- If you are in uniform, salute the flag with a formal right hand salute. Otherwise, place your right hand over your heart.
- Don’t let the flag touch the ground.
- Normally the flag is flown from sunrise to sunset. If flown at night, it must be illuminated.
- On Memorial Day, fly the flag at half staff until noon and at full staff from noon to sunset.
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Related Resources
Flag Ceremonies
- Simple Indoor Opening Flag Ceremony
- Simple Indoor Closing Flag Ceremony
- A Simple Flag Retirement Ceremony
Inspirational Minutes
How to Fold a US Flag
Folding a flag is not complicated, but if your Scouts don’t do it regularly, then practice it beforehand.
The US Flag Code
The Flag Code is written in legal language and can be difficult to read, but this is the source for how we treat flags.
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