The American Flag and its Protocol

November 10, 11:48 PMPittsburgh History ExaminerDev Meyers

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American flag
USA.gov

The Flag of the United States of America is a symbol of freedom and liberty to which Americans pledge their allegiance. It is made up of thirteen alternating red and white stripes and fifty white stars on a blue field, with each star representing a state.

The colors on the flag represent:

* Red: valor and bravery
* White: purity and innocence
* Blue: vigilance, perseverance, and justice

In August 1949, President Harry S. Truman proclaimed June 14 as Flag Day. In 1966 Congress designated the week in which June 14 occurs as National Flag Week, and encourages Americans to display the flag outside their homes and businesses. Although Flag Day is not celebrated as a federal holiday, Americans everywhere continue to honor the history and heritage it represents.

As a national symbol, there are certain guidelines for displaying the flag of the United States, and these have been enshrined in law. If you require additional information or direction on the federal level with regard to flag protocol, please call the Ceremonials Division of the Department of State's Office of Protocol at 1.202.647.1735.

Please note: According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), when a flag is worn out or otherwise no longer a fitting emblem for display, it should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.

Additional Resources:

* U.S. Code, Title 4, Chapter 1: The Flag
* Flying the American Flag at Half-Staff
* Ordering a Flag Flown over the United States Capitol
* Correct Method of Folding the Flag
* Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Policy on Flag-Folding Recitations
* Veterans' Salutes during National Anthem

Source: USA.gov - internet