News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
As our country celebrates its independence this week, Putnam County’s Veteran Resource Officer reminds you of proper flag etiquette.
Mark Harris said make sure to fly the American flag at the top of the pole or “full staff. Any accompanying flag just go beneath the U.S flag. Flags should not hit the ground or touch the floor. Flags should not be worn as clothing or displayed on the hood of a vehicle.
“It shows respect and honor for our nation and for those that served our country honorably,” Harris said. “Whether in the U.S or abroad, whether in peacetime or in war. That represents our nation.”
Harris spent 30 years as a member of the Air Force and has been the Putnam County Veterans Officer since 2015. When displaying a flag, Harris said it is also important to make sure the flag remains in excellent shape.
“First make sure the flag is serviceable,” Harris said. “Serviceable means that it is not faded, that it’s not tearing, that the threads aren’t just hanging from the flag and that each of the stripes are not separating. So make sure the flag is serviceable, that’s the first thing.”
When displaying the flag at night, Harris said to have a designated light to shine on the flag for passersby to see.
As the 4th of July festivities kick off, Harris said it is important that all of us respect the flag as well as the national anthem and the customs that come with it.
“Well as a civilian being outside and you hear the national anthem, stop,” Harris said. “Give respect in that moment in time for the flag as the national anthem is being played.”
The U.S flag code was adopted in 1926. It sets out the correct ways to handle, display and dispose of an American Flag. The task of disposing a flag is a ceremonial event that ends with burning the flag. If that sounds like too much work, Harris recommends dropping unneeded flags off at service organizations where they will respectfully honor and dispose of the flag.
