Displaying the US Flag with Other Flags

Displaying the US flag correctly is an important part of Scouting programs. Scouts learn about respect and honor through proper flag etiquette. This helps them understand the importance of national symbols and traditions. It also teaches them to show respect for their country.

In Scouting events, the US flag is always displayed in a position of honor. Scouts are taught the correct way to display the US flag with other flags. This includes knowing the order of display and ensuring the US flag is always prominent. This knowledge is part of their growth as responsible citizens.

Scouts also learn about the proper way to handle and care for the US flag. They learn how to raise and lower the flag correctly. This includes special procedures, like flying the flag at half-staff. These practices help Scouts develop a sense of duty and respect.

Learning about flag etiquette and displaying the US flag is not just about following rules. It is about understanding and respecting the values that the flag represents. For Scouts, displaying the US flag properly is a way to show their pride in their country and their commitment to the principles of Scouting.

The order of display for flags is very important.

• The US flag always comes first. It should be given the place of honor. This means it is displayed above all other flags.
• After the US flag, flags of other nations come next. These are arranged in alphabetical order. This shows respect for each country’s flag.
• Next in line are military flags. They are displayed in the order in which the military branches were established. This helps honor the history and tradition of each branch.
• State flags follow military flags. These are displayed in the order the states were admitted to the Union. This shows respect for the history of the United States.
• Other flags come last. They are displayed in order of importance. This might include organizational flags, like those of Scouting or local groups.

When raising and lowering the flags, the US flag is always higher. Another nation’s flag must never be flown on the same halyard as the US flag. This helps ensure the US flag is always in the place of honor.

When displaying the US flag with other flags, size matters. The US flag should always be the largest flag. If not the largest, it should at least be the same size as the other flags. This shows the importance of the US flag.

Flags should be in reasonable proportion to each other. This means they should look balanced when displayed together. A very large US flag with tiny state flags does not look right. All flags should be similar in size for a proper display.

If flags are displayed on the same pole, the US flag should be at the top. This is true even if the other flags are smaller. The US flag always gets the highest position.

When flags are on separate poles, the size rule still applies. The US flag should be the largest or the same size as the other flags. This keeps the display respectful and orderly.

In Scouting events, it is important to check the size of the flags before displaying the US flag. This ensures that the US flag is given the honor it deserves. It also helps teach Scouts the importance of proper flag etiquette.

When displaying flags on the same pole, the US flag should always be at the top. No other flag should be above it. This shows that the US flag is in the place of honor. It is important to make sure the flags are in the correct order before raising them.

For flags on separate poles, the US flag should be displayed on the right. This is the viewer’s left when facing the flags. If there is an odd number of flags, the US flag should be in the center. This makes sure the US flag is always in a prominent position.

When raising and lowering flags on separate poles, the US flag should go up first and come down last. This shows respect for the flag. Other flags can be raised or lowered after the US flag is in place.

In Scouting events, it is important to follow these guidelines for displaying the US flag. This helps teach Scouts proper flag etiquette. It also shows respect for the US flag and what it represents. By following these rules, Scouts can ensure the flag is always displayed correctly.

Displaying the US flag at half-staff is a sign of respect and mourning. It is important to do this correctly.

When placing the flag to half-staff, first raise it to the top of the pole. Then lower it to the halfway point. This shows respect before moving to the half-staff position.

When removing the flag from half-staff, raise it to the top of the pole first. Then lower it completely. This ensures the flag is treated with the honor it deserves.

If other flags are displayed with the US flag at half-staff, they should also be at half-staff. But the US flag should always be raised first and lowered last. This keeps the US flag in the place of honor.

Scouts need to learn the proper way to display the flag at half-staff. This teaches them about respect and tradition. By following these steps, they can honor important events and individuals properly.

When displaying the US flag on foreign soil, different rules apply. In another country, their flag may take the place of honor. This shows respect for the host nation. The US flag should still be displayed properly, but it may be in a secondary position.

In international events, like World Scouting Jamborees, flags of all participating countries are displayed. The flags are usually in alphabetical order or as decided by the host. The US flag should be treated with respect but might not be the highest or most prominent.

When displaying the US flag on US soil, the US flag always holds the place of honor. This rule applies even if foreign dignitaries are present. The US flag should be the highest and most prominent.

Scouts need to understand these differences. When abroad, respecting the host nation’s customs is important. When at home, they should ensure the US flag is in the correct position. This knowledge helps Scouts show respect and understanding in different situations.

Click here for a printable PDF copy of this protocol for displaying the US flag.

Video explanation about displaying the US flag

Flag Ceremonies

• How to Fold the US Flag
• Simple Indoor Opening Flag Ceremony
• Simple Indoor Closing Flag Ceremony
• A Simple Flag Retirement Ceremony

Other Flag Information

• Displaying the US Flag with Other Flags
• Flag Retirement and Grommets

Inspirational Minutes

• Cubmaster or Scoutmaster Minute: Threads and Flags
• The Flag Remembers Christmas

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.

What is the correct order for displaying the US flag with other flags?

The US flag should be displayed first, followed by flags of other nations in alphabetical order, military flags in order of establishment, state flags in order of admission, and other flags in order of importance.

How should flags be displayed on the same pole?

When displaying the US flag on the same pole as other flags, the US flag should always be at the top.

How should flags be displayed on separate poles?

When displaying the US flag on separate poles, it should be on the right (the viewer’s left). If there is an odd number of flags, the US flag should be in the center.

What should I do when displaying the US flag at half-staff?

First, raise the US flag to the top of the pole, then lower it to half-staff. When taking it down, raise it to the top again before lowering it completely.

Can I fly another country’s flag on the same halyard as the US flag?

No, another country’s flag must never be flown on the same halyard as the US flag.

What is the rule for the size of the US flag when displayed with other flags?

The US flag should be the largest or at least the same size as the other flags.

How should the US flag be displayed when on foreign soil?

When displaying the US flag on foreign soil, the host nation’s flag may take the place of honor. The US flag should still be displayed respectfully but may be in a secondary position.

When should the US flag be displayed at half-staff?

The US flag is displayed at half-staff during times of national mourning or as directed by the President or state governors. Follow proper procedures for raising and lowering the flag.

Can the US flag be displayed at night?

Yes, but the US flag should be properly illuminated if displayed at night.

What should be done if the US flag becomes damaged or worn out?

The US flag should be retired in a respectful manner, usually by burning. Many Scout troops hold ceremonies to retire worn flags properly.

Displaying the US flag correctly is an important tradition that shows respect for our country. The US flag should always be in the position of honor. This means it is displayed first and at the highest point. Whether it’s with other national flags, military flags, state flags, or other flags, the US flag takes precedence.

When flags are on the same pole, the US flag should be at the top. If flags are on separate poles, the US flag should be on the right, which is the viewer’s left. If there is an odd number of flags, the US flag should be in the center. When displayed at half-staff, the US flag should be raised to the top before being lowered halfway.

Size also matters when displaying the US flag. The US flag should be the largest or at least the same size as the other flags. This helps ensure the flag is always given the respect it deserves.

On foreign soil, the host nation’s flag may take the place of honor. However, on US soil, the US flag should always be in the place of prominence. By following these guidelines, we show our respect for the US flag and the values it represents.