On June 14 we honor Old Glory on National Flag Day. This day commemorates the adoption of the United States flag on June 14, 1777.

While Betsy Ross has been given credit for stitching together the first American flag, there isn’t any sound evidence supporting the story. At the same time, there is any to disprove it, either. During Ross’s Revolutionary time, several standards were carried bearing red and white stripes and varying symbols where the blue field and stars now reside.

Since 1977, the design of the flag has been officially modified 26 times. For 47 years, the 48-star flag was in effect. In 1959, the 49-star version became official on July 4. President Eisenhower ordered the 50-star flag on August 21, 1959. Seventeen-year-old Robert G. Heft of Ohio designed the 50-star American flag. His was one of the more than 1,500 designs that were submitted to President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Here's everything you need to know about the U.S. Flag from the VFW.

  • When displaying with others, the U.S flag should be at peak, above any other flag.
  • U.S. flag goes to its right. Flags of other nations are flown at the same height.
  • When marching the U.S. flag should be on the right (observer's left).
  • When displayed on a speaker's platform, it must be above and behind the speaker. If mounted on a staff it is on the speaker's right.
  • Never use the flag for decoration. Use bunting with the blue on top, then white, then red.

All persons present in uniform should render the military salute. Members of the armed forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute. All other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, or if applicable, remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart.

  • On special days, the flag may be flown at half-staff.
  • On Memorial Day, it is flown at half-staff until noon and then raised.
  • Do not let the flag touch the ground.
  • Do not fly the flag upside down unless there is an emergency.
  • Do not carry the flag flat, or carry things in it.
  • Do not use the flag as clothing.
  • Do not store the flag where it can get dirty.
  • Do not use it as a cover.
  • Do not fasten it or tie it back. Always allow it to fall free.
  • Do not draw on, or otherwise mark the flag.

FLAG DISPOSAL:
1. The flag should be folded in its customary manner.
2. It is important that the fire is fairly large and of sufficient intensity to ensure complete burning of the flag.
3. Place the flag on the fire.
4. The individual(s) can come to attention, salute the flag, recite the Pledge of Allegiance and have a brief period of silent reflection.
5. After the flag is completely consumed, the fire should then be safely extinguished and the ashes buried.
6. Please make sure you are conforming to local/state fire codes or ordinances.

Note: Please contact your local VFW Post if you'd like assistance or more information on proper flag disposal.


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