by Cindy Tabacchi

Created on: June 12, 2009

Flag Day in the United States of America, observed every year on June 14, is an opportunity to honor the American flag. It's a chance to reflect on our flag's history and to celebrate this symbol of the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. Displaying the Stars and Stripes with respect requires some knowledge of flag etiquette, but the rules are easy to follow.

The first American flag was made in 1776 by Betsy Ross, who was George Washington's seamstress. On June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress resolved the adoption of the flag of the United States. The idea of having a day every year to commemorate this event is believed to have been started in 1885 by Bernard J. Cigrand, a Wisconsin school teacher. During the following three decades, others continued recognizing our flag on June 14. Flag Day was officially established by President Woodrow Wilson in 1916 as a day to celebrate the anniversary of the 1777 resolution.

The most obvious way to observe Flag Day is, of course, to properly display the American Flag. The flag should always be treated with respect, and the rules of flag etiquette were created toward that end. The flag should be displayed with the blue field in the upper left corner, and it should be allowed to wave free. It should never be allowed to touch the ground. The flag should only be flown from sunrise to sunset but may be flown at night when illuminated by a spotlight. The American flag should always be flown at least as high as a state or other flag, if not higher. After a death or tragedy, the flag may be flown at half-staff (or half-mast when at sea).

When not being flown the flag should be folded neatly and stored in a clean, dry place. The flag must only be displayed when clean and in good condition. When the flag becomes soiled or torn, it should be appropriately burned, not thrown in the garbage. The Boy Scouts know how to correctly perform a flag burning ceremony and will properly retire your flag for you.

The week of June 14th is considered to be National Flag Week during which time the President of the United States issues a proclamation urging U.S. citizens to fly the flag throughout the week. Many organizations have events to celebrate the flag, the freedom we enjoy in this country, and the sacrifices our flag represents. Taking the time to participate in a Flag Day celebration is a fun way to celebrate the Stars and Stripes.

Observing Flag Day is an honor that we can all participate in. Join in the celebration within your community, and fly the red, white and blue proudly.

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