Memorial Day Flag Tradition Often Overlooked
As Americans observe Memorial Day weekend, veterans' groups note that many miss a key tradition: the proper display of the U.S. flag. The most common mistake is not lowering the flag to half-staff until noon before raising it to full staff, a symbolic gesture honoring service members who gave their lives for the country.
Half-Staff to Full Staff: The Meaning
Aaron Bacon, program manager for the American Legion, said limited awareness of the U.S. Flag Code contributes to widespread mistakes. Under the code, the flag should fly at half-staff from sunrise to noon and then be raised to full staff for the remainder of the day. This split display mirrors the holiday's purpose: the morning hours honor fallen military members, while raising the flag at noon symbolizes national resilience and the continuation of the freedoms they defended.
Common Flag Etiquette Mistakes
Improper handling of the flag is another frequent issue. The U.S. Flag Code and Veterans Affairs guidelines advise that the flag should never touch the ground, water, or objects beneath it, should not be used as clothing or decoration, and should be retired respectfully if damaged or worn. Additionally, it should be flown from sunrise to sunset unless properly illuminated at night, and should not be displayed in severe weather unless it is an all-weather flag.
Remembering the Holiday's Origins
Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day began after the Civil War when communities decorated the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers. It became a federal holiday in 1971, observed annually on the last Monday in May. Unlike Veterans Day, which honors all who served, Memorial Day specifically honors service members who died while serving.
Bacon emphasized the importance of understanding the flag’s symbolism: “The flag isn’t just decoration; it represents those who gave their lives for our freedoms and their families.” Proper observance of these traditions ensures that the holiday’s meaning is fully honored.
