Follow These Guidelines When Flying the Flag for Memorial Day
Memorial Day is just that, a day to remember those who fought and died to preserve our freedom and defend our flag. These guidelines will help ensure that you are displaying the colors with respect.
These come directly from the United States Flag Code.
1. - Can I fly the flag in inclement weather?
You can display your flag in inclement weather if it's made of all-weather material, like nylon, for example. During Arizona's monsoon season, you want to make sure your flag doesn't get blown out of the bracket that may be mounted on your house. Buy a sturdy bracket, preferably one with a screw that can be tightened on the flagpole to hold it in place.
2 - What if I don't have a pole or equipment for flying our flag?
If you don't have equipment for flying the flag, you can still display it against a wall or in a window. Attach it to the wall so that the stripes are displayed either horizontally or vertically and so that the blue union square with the stars is positioned at the top, on your left, as you or someone outside your house looks at the flag.
3 - Can I fly my flag at night?
It is a universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on flag poles/staffs that are outside. However, it can be on view 24 hours a day if properly lighted at nighttime.
4 - What happens if my flag touches the ground?
You are not supposed to let a flag touch the ground. But if this happens accidentally, you do not have to destroy the flag provided it is not damaged. Mildly soiled flags can be washed or dry-cleaned if necessary.
5 - What if my flag is old, damaged and needs to be retired?
A flag may eventually become soiled or tattered when often displayed outdoors. According to the U.S. Flag Code, it must then be destroyed respectfully, preferably by burning. Should this be the case, a local VFW Post, or American Legion Post can assist you in properly retiring the flag.