Pledging Allegiance to the Flag on Flag Day

One of our residential homes, Mass. Ave., was the host of the Specialized Housing Flag Day Party, which we celebrated in full red, white and blue regalia, with the house decorated inside and out. Each house that attended brought refreshments, so you know there was a tasty buffet! There was even a contest, and the winners received Patriots jerseys.  We took a moment to say the Pledge and really learn about the significance of the words. We all learned some important information about the American Flag including the following facts :

• Flag Day is a day for all Americans to celebrate and show respect for our flag, its designers and makers.
• Our flag is representative of our independence and our unity as a nation.
• Our flag has a proud and glorious history. It was at the lead of every battle fought by Americans. Many people have died protecting it.
• Our flag stands proudly on the surface of the moon.

As Americans, we have every right to be proud of our culture, our nation, and our flag. So raise the flag every day with pride!

Properly Display Our Flag

Care and handling of the American flag is steeped in tradition and respect. There is a right way and a wrong way to display the flag. This is called Flag Etiquette. The American flag should be held in the highest of regards. It represents our nation and the many people who gave their lives for our country and our flag. According to the Holiday Insights website, here are the basics on displaying  the American flag:

• The flag is normally flown from sunrise to sunset.
• In the morning, raise the flag briskly. At sunset, lower it slowly. Always, raise and lower it ceremoniously.
• The flag should not be flown at night without a light on it.
• The flag should not be flown in the rain or inclement weather.
• After a tragedy or death, the flag is flown at half staff for 30 days. It’s  called “half staff” on land, and “half mast” on a ship.
• When flown vertically on a pole, the stars and blue field , or “union”, is at the top and at the end of the pole (away from your house).
• The American flag is always flown at the top of the pole. Your state flag and other flags fly below it.
• Never let your flag touch the ground, never…period.
• Fold your flag when storing. Don’t just stuff it in a drawer or box.
•  When your flag is old and has seen  better days, it is time to retire it. Old flags should be burned or buried. Please do not throw it in the trash.