Section 6 of the Flag Code provide guidance as to the times
and occasions for displaying the Flag of the United States of America in the
ordinary course out of doors. It calls
for display on stationary flagstaffs that are in the open and clearly
visible. In raising the flag, it should
be hoisted or posted briskly.
Conversely, it is to be lowered or removed ceremoniously. There are special rules regarding how to
hoist and lower at half-staff.
Aside from all other rules permitting display, it is
improper to display the flag on days of inclement weather. This is to say that the flag should be
lowered and stowed on rainy days. It may
be displayed in this circumstance, however, if adequately protected from the
elements, or otherwise constructed of specific “all weather” materials.
By universal custom, the flag should only be
displayed from sunrise to sunset. For
those who know this rule, there are few feelings more disheartening than the
lifeless flag standing neglected in the pitch of night, and this is the most
often overlooked rule of residential patriots who would prefer avoiding daily
hoisting and lowering. For them, the
Rules of Flag Etiquette provide an exception for the compliant-minded: “When a patriotic effect is desired, the flag
may be displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of
darkness.”
The flag should be displayed daily on or near the main
administration building of every public institution, in or near every polling
place on election days, and in or near schoolhouses during school days.
Question: The
school in my neighborhood did not hoist the flag today. What up?
Answer: We
reviewed the weather conditions in your neighborhood, and learned that there
were scattered showers that day. Most
likely the flag was not displayed in view of the inclement weather, which is
not only appropriate but required. By
the way, if you have questions as to the display or nondisplay of the flag in
practice by a public institution, most are very receptive to your constructive
input, and you should feel comfortable broaching the subject. Most public institutions have a specific reason
for their approach to flag display, or will be appreciative of learning more
from the public.
