This Memorial Day, if you’re ready to hang your American flag and celebrate the Stars and Stripes and all that they represent, there are a few things you should know. Hanging the flag correctly is a touching way to honor the country. Hanging the flag incorrectly could disrespect it, and possibly annoy or even offend your neighbors. So remember the rules and hanging your flag and show your love and respect for these United States!

The 1942 U.S. Flag Code

In 1942, the U.S. Flag Code was issued, making a number of established traditions formally codified into law. Keeping them in mind will help you hang your flag the right way! (It should be noted that since the code was first written, “flag-style” clothing became fashionable to produce. These are actually considered an abuse of the flag, which should always be treated with dignity.)

Hang your flag prominently. Hanging your flag in a place of honor is extremely important. If you have a flagpole, now is the time to put it to good use. The most common place to hang a flag at home is with a flagpole attachment affixed to a high point on the front of the house. On other buildings, it should be placed at a high point using a flagpole attachment.

When putting a flag outdoors, an oft-forgotten part of putting up the flag is that it should only be done during the day and in good weather, so the flag isn’t damaged. Unless there are lights shining on it, the flag should be taken off the pole at night, folded and stored.

Hanging a Flag Indoors

The 1942 code notes that putting a flag up in a place of worship or a special event should be done by prominently displaying the flag in a place of honor, to the right of the speaker or leader. With this in mind, if you want to display the flag indoors, make sure to put it in a prominent corner where it’s visible and not easily knocked over. Further, the flag should not touch the floor or water.

Big Don’ts When It Comes to Placing the Flag

When hanging a flag from a window or other device, it’s important to remember that the stars (the symbol of the Union) should always be displayed in the top left corner, whether horizontally or vertically. Consideration should be made in such a case for the outside viewer more than for those viewing the flag from indoors. Hanging the flag in any other way, particularly with the Union symbol at the bottom, is considered either disrespectful or a distress signal. Either way, it’s not a good idea for Memorial Day.

In the end, remembering that Memorial Day is a day to respect and remember our American heritage, it’s a smart idea to do so by treating our flags respectfully in when and where we place them. Be proud of the flag and have a great holiday!