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We pledge to answer your question as best we can with the help of the Web. The flag flies over so many public institutions in the U.S. and around the world, and thanks to Neil Armstrong, there's even a U.S. flag on the moon. To find the correct way to care for the stars and stripes, we went to Yahoo!'s directory category for the American Flag in search of rules and regulations. The American Legion's Flag Education and Etiquette site is a great place to brush up on the finer points of flag care. We found some interesting tidbits by reading through the official Flag Code,
including instructions on hoisting, lowering, folding, and displaying the flag. We viewed the list of special days when it's especially patriotic to fly the flag, and learned that on Memorial Day the flag should be flown at half-staff until noon, in honor of the war dead. When the flag is displayed, it must never touch the ground. So, keep your flag up, and keep in mind that the flag should never be used as apparel, bedding, or drapery. Not surprisingly, the American Legion provides information about protecting the flag and supports legislation that would make it illegal to physically desecrate the flag. Interestingly enough, if a flag becomes tattered and unserviceable, the Flag Code dictates that the flag be disposed of by burning. This "should be done discreetly so the act of destruction
is not perceived as a protest or desecration." Once you've figured out the best way to let your flag fly, be sure to mark June 14th on your calendar. That's Flag Day, in case you forgot.
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