Flag Etiquette

The American flag symbolize the scars and triumphs of our history, unity amongst division, courage and sacrifice and the beautiful gift of freedom. For that reason, we are committed to preserve and respect Old Glory in every way. We reference the Flag Code quite often here at Laurel Mercantile, and we thought it would be a fine time to share proper flag etiquette.

Here are a few of the Flag Etiquette standards that we live:

• The flag should be cleaned and mended when necessary, and when a flag is damaged or worn in a way that is not fit to serve as a symbol of our country, it should be destroyed by burning in a dignified manner.
• The flag should only be flown upside down only as a distress signal.
• The flag should never be used  for any decoration or to cover a speakers desk. 
• The flag should never be used as clothing. It should not be embroidered, printed or otherwise impressed on any articles intended to be discarded after temporary use.
• The flag should never be used for receiving, holding, or carrying, or delivering anything.
• When a flag is lowered, it should not touch the ground.
• When the flag is stored, it should be folded neatly and ceremoniously. Do not store it where it could get dirty. 
• When hanging or displaying a flag against a wall, vertically or horizontally, the flag's union (stars) should always be hanging at the top and to the observer's left. 
• The flag should always be at the center and highest point when a number of other flags of state, localities, or other societies are grouped together. 
• The flag should be brought indoors during inclement weather. 
• The flag should never be drawn or marked on.
• The flag should never be tied back, but should be able to freely fall.

In the midst of all of the excitement and fun this summer, we hope that the freedoms and rights that we share are celebrated often and well.