Our historic town of Farmington, settled in 1640, aka “Charmington, ” displays American flags on every other pole along Main Street. Many of the houses in this historic village also display a flag. This patriotic presentation, from May until September, is a constant reminder of our freedom.
Ever since 1776, on the Fourth of July, a “star-spangled day” in America has been in order, and now more than ever with what is going on in the world. Red, white and blue, along with sparklers, fireworks, and strawberry pie are traditions enjoyed on Independence Day. I feel the need to celebrate America with extra vigor this Fourth of July. Do you agree? Perhaps, we will all make the effort to proudly display an American flag to honor our great country!
The protocol of hanging a flag:
-When a flag is projecting out from a building on a pole, the Union (the blue background with 50 stars to commemorate our states), should be at the top, and in front of the pole. You already know this!
-What if you are hanging the American flag vertically on a wall, where does the Union go? It is placed at the top and should be to the observer’s left!
Protocol for a flag displayed on a flagpole at night:
-A flag should be lit up if it is displayed outside at night. (I confess, the floodlight for our flag, which hangs over the front door at Fox Hall, is on a timer. It turns off at midnight… shhh, don’t tell!)
Protocol for when a flag is being hoisted up a flagpole:
-Spectators not in military uniform should face the flag and place their right hand over their hearts.
-If a gentleman is wearing a hat, it is removed and held in his hand over his heart.
-Military spectators in uniform should render the military salute.
-Members of the armed forces and veterans who are present, but not in uniform, may give the military salute.
Have you ever had the opportunity to experience the lowering of the flag on a military base or at Arlington National cemetery while a lone bugler plays Taps? It is a moving, patriotic experience.
I have fond memories of standing on the long sweeping lawn of the New York Yacht Club overlooking the harbor in Newport, RI during cocktail hour. At dusk, suddenly, there is a respectful quiet that dictates patriotism and nationalism as the flag is being retired for the evening. A bugler plays Taps, which is the national “Song of Remembrance,” a tribute to those who have died for our country.
Credit: Instagram/nauticareport
Happy 4th of July to you and God bless America!
XX,
Holly