Introduction

To most of us, there is much significance attached to handling the American flag in that it's a very personalized activity. Whether it'll be in your house to fly it at the stadium or to carry it out in any parade form, respect handling is due along with the mere display, and for this reason, the subsequent guide shares some very nice do's and don'ts on how to deal responsibly with the American flag.

When I was in elementary school, during a Veterans Day ceremony, I learned how significant the American flag was. That flag, erect with its anthem playing, is something to be etched. It is not merely a symbol; it is for those sacrifices of thousands. As you take care of the flag, remind yourself of its weight in importance, which is a reminder of our shared values and freedoms.

The Do's for Handling the Flag

1.     Keep Your Hands Clean

One of the simplest yet most important rules is to keep your hands clean when handling the flag. Sounds basic, but I learned it the hard way after grabbing my flag with muddy hands after a day in the garden. The stains left behind were a reminder that the flag deserves our best. Always wash your hands before touching the flag, especially after outdoor activities, to prevent any unnecessary marks.

2.     Store the Flag Properly

Storage is another critical flag care factor. Once you are done flying your flag, fold it correctly and store it in a dry and clean place. I have seen flags destroyed because they had been stuffed into a damp closet or left out in the open, exposed to dust and dirt. Let everybody see it excellently; store it in a special flag box or bag, and fold it properly by learning how to fold the flag neatly into a triangle as my dad taught me. Then, its dignity and perfect shape will be retained and ready for another use.

Of course, in the case of the flag, height is also an issue as well as orientation. Hang indoors or outdoors with any stars to the top left as viewed from the front of the flag, and I will never forget one neighbor putting his flags out upside-down during a July 4th celebration in his yard. He was mortified when someone pointed it out. It's easily avoided with a little eye for detail.

3.     Place the Flag Correctly

Hang your flag in a very public place. Mine always hangs by the front door so that people see it when they come into the house. It really opens up conversations about values and history, and I feel very proud to share stories about my family's relationship with the flag. Whether on a pole in the yard or on a bracket in the house, displaying the flag is a patriotic act.

4.     Fold It Carefully

Now is the time for folding the flag and it needs to be done very carefully. Never shake it out briskly, as this will bring some tears and damage to it. Instead, hold it by the top and let it fall into its place.

As being hoisted or lowered, the front view should provide the flag with stars at the top left. Then in a set of flags, the U.S. flag should be in a top position, or the rightmost position. If hoisted vertically, then the star should be visible on the left side. The flag should never hit the ground at any given time.

5.     Follow Flag Etiquette

Flag etiquette is a very big deal, especially in a ceremony. Any time the national anthem is playing and the flag is passing by in a parade, you stand at attention. I have been to many local events and remind myself to stand tall and hand over the heart, honoring not only the flag but all who have fought for its meaning. This small gesture carries a lot of weight.

The Don'ts for Handling the Flag

1.     Don't Let the Flag Touch the Ground

This is one of the most important don'ts. When you allow the flag to touch the ground, that is known as flag desecration. I remember one family reunion when one of the attendees accidentally let the flag drop while taking a group picture. The immediate gasp reminded us that that was the flag. To avoid it, make sure to keep it high and know your surroundings.

2.     Don't Fly a Worn-Out Flag

A flag should never be flown that is in a worn condition. It's time to retire the flag or make repairs when its edges are frayed and its colors have faded. One day I saw an aged neighbor proudly flying a tattered and torn flag. This made my heart cry to see it. I approached him softly and talked to him about how he could properly retire it. This may be done respectfully, for example, in a flag retirement ceremony. It can be in a manner of paying respects to its service.

3.     Don't Use the Flag as Wearing Apparel

Even if you put on some clothes or accessories made of the flag, that would be an offense. It may look trendy, but the flag should be draped, not worn. The last time I heard that most visitors at a very popular music festival were wearing flag-themed clothes. I know I understand that is exciting, but a symbol of our nation cannot be taken lightly.

4.     Don't Hang the Flag Improperly

Wrongly hanging the flag may make it lose its sense. The stars should always be on the left top, whether the flag is vertical or horizontal. Once, I even hung the flag upside down during a backyard barbecue as I wanted it to look cool. Luckily, my friend spotted it before the guests were to arrive. That lesson taught me to double-check before showing it off.

5.     Don't store the flag in wet or soiled places

Exposing it to the wrong form of storage for a very long period will make it easily destroyed. A moist cellar or garage with some dirt is not a good location for your flag. I always make sure I clean and dry my flag before keeping it away after each outdoor function.

Conclusion

It is said that there is pride in handling the American flag. A citizen, who by nature is respectable, would respect the flag in following various do's and don'ts. This could be in your house or community action in a neighborhood, but even just folding the flag from when you had displayed it, requires great care not to be scarred by the dignity created for generations to come. Remember, every time we touch the flag, we are showing respect to those who went before us and celebrating values that bind our nation.