RESPECT FOR THE AMERICAN FLAG

The Flag Code, a national guideline on ways in which it is to be respected, state that no disrespect should be shown to the flag of the United States of America.  Specific ways in which the flag should not be used, according to the code, are:

*The flag should not be dipped to any person or thing, and can be flown upside down only as a signal.

*The flag should never be fastened, displayed, used, or stored in such a way that would allow it to be easily torn, soiled, or damaged.

*The flag should never have any mark, insignia, letter, work, or other designs of any kind placed upon it.

*The flag should never be used as a receptacle for receiving, holding, carrying, or delivering anything.

*The flag should never be used for advertising purposes.  Advertising signs should not be fastened to a flag's staff or halyard.

When lowering the flag, make certain that no part of it touches the ground.  It should be received by waiting hands and arms.  To store the flag, ceremoniously fold it lengthwise in half, then repeat with the blue field on the outside.  Finally, while one person holds it by the blue field, another then makes a triangular fold in the opposite end, continuing to fold it in triangles until only the blue shield shows.

When a flag is in such a condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, it should be destroyed in a dignified manner, preferably by  burning.

It is proper to display the flag from sunrise to sunset on all days the weather permits.  The flag may also be displayed at night if illuminated by a light. But it is even more important to display the flag on national holidays and days of importance.

Michigan State Senate