Flag Day observed today: How to properly display, care for and retire an American flag

Flag Day is observed today, June 14, marking the anniversary of the adoption of the American flag by the Second Continental Congress in 1777.

For residents, businesses, churches and civic organizations displaying the flag today, federal guidance offers several reminders on how to handle and display it respectfully.

According to guidance from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the flag is traditionally displayed from sunrise to sunset. It may be displayed at night if it is properly illuminated. The flag should not be displayed during rain, snow or wind storms unless it is an all-weather flag.

When displayed with other flags, the American flag should be given the position of honor. If flags are displayed from the same staff, the U.S. flag should be at the top. In a group of flags displayed from staffs, the U.S. flag should be at the center and highest point.

The flag should be hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously. It should not touch the ground, floor, water or merchandise, and it should not be used as clothing, bedding, drapery, advertising or anything intended to be discarded after temporary use.

If a flag becomes worn, torn, faded or otherwise no longer suitable for display, it should be retired in a dignified manner. Federal guidance says a worn flag should be destroyed respectfully, preferably by burning. Many veterans organizations, scout groups and civic organizations conduct flag retirement ceremonies or accept worn flags for proper retirement.

Neuse News is compiling local information on flag retirement options in Lenoir, Greene and Jones counties. Organizations that accept worn American flags for retirement may send details to Neuse News for inclusion in future coverage.

The U.S. Flag Code is contained in Title 4, Chapter 1 of the U.S. Code. USAGov also provides general information about the American flag, including its history, symbolism and half-staff guidance.