In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established June 14 as Flag Day.
It commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States, which happened on that day in 1777 by resolution of the Second Continental Congress. The United States Army also celebrates the Army Birthday on this date!
You can show your patriotic pride by displaying an American flag outside of your home any day, but it's particularly encouraged on:
- January 1st: New Year's Day
- 3rd Monday in January: Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Birthday
- January 20th: Inauguration Day
- February 12th: Lincoln's Birthday
- 3rd Monday in February: President's Day
- February 22nd: Washington's Birthday
- Easter Sunday
- 3rd Saturday in May: Armed Forces Day
- Last Monday in May: Memorial Day Observed
- May 8th: V-E Day
- 2nd Sunday in May: Mother's Day
- May 30th: Memorial Day Traditional
- 3rd Sunday in June: Father's Day
- June 14th: Flag Day
- July 4th: Independence Day
- August 14th: V-J Day
- August 19th: National Aviation Day
- 1st Monday in September: Labor Day
- September 11th: Patriot Day
- September 17th: Constitution Day
- October 27th: Navy Day
- 1st Tuesday after 1st Monday in November: Election Day
- November 10th: Marine Corps. Birthday
- November 11th: Veterans Day
- 4th Thursday in November: Thanksgiving Day
- December 7th: Pearl Harbor Day
- December 25th: Christmas Day
The fundamental rule of flag etiquette is: treat all flags with respect and common sense.
The U.S. flag takes precedence over all other flags when flown within the United States. It should not be flown lower than another flag nor should it be smaller than another flag flown with it. Other flags may, however, be flown at the same height and in the same size. Other national flags should not be smaller or flown lower than the U.S. flag when displayed together. If it is not possible to display two or more national flags at the same height, it is not proper to display them together at all. It is not illegal or improper to fly any flag (state, ethnic group, organization, etc.) alone but it is always preferable to display the U.S. flag at the same time. It is proper to fly the U.S. flag at night, but only if it is spotlighted.
If your flag is no longer fit to fly, it should be disposed of with dignity.
The U.S. Flag Code states that 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 way, preferably by burning. Many Veteran and Civic Organizations will properly dispose of a flag at no cost.