How to Dispose of Worn Flags

Every precaution should be taken to prevent the flag from becoming soiled. When a flag is in such a condition, through wear or damage, that is no longer a fitting emblem for display, it should be destroyed privately in a dignified manner.

The flag should NEVER

1. Be tilted (dipped) even momentarily to any person or thing. Regimental colors, State flags, organization or institutional flags may be tilted as the mark of honor.

2. Be displayed with the union down except as a signal of distress.

3. Be carried flat or horizontally, but always aloft and floating free.

4. Be displayed on a float, motor car or boat except from a staff.

5. Be allowed to touch the ground or floor, or brush against objects.

6. Have objects placed on, over it, or be used as a covering for a ceiling.

7. Have any mark, insignia, letter, work, figure, picture or drawing of any nature placed upon or attached to it.

8. Be used as a receptacle for carrying anything, or be used to cover a statue or monument. If used in connection with unveiling ceremonies, it should not serve as a covering of the object being unveiled.

9. Be used for advertising purposes or have advertising signs fastened to its staff or halyard.

10. Be embroidered on such articles as handkerchiefs or cushions, or be printed or otherwise impressed on boxes.

11. Be used as a costume or athletic uniform or part of one.

12. Be used as drapery of any sort whatsoever, never festooned, drawn back or up in folds, but always allowed to fall free. Bunting of blue, white and red-always arranged with the blue above, white in the middle, and red below-should be used for such purposes of decoration as covering a speaker’s desk or draping the front of a platform.