What happens when the flag touches the ground?
Quick Answer
If a flag touches the ground, the condition should be remedied as quickly as possible. If the flag has become dirty, it should be cleaned with a mild soap before being re-flown.The United States Flag Code says the flag must be kept from touching the ground, but contrary to popular belief, it does not require the flag to be burned if this happens.
Continue Reading
Full Answer
Destroying a flag is only prescribed if a flag has become too dirty, tattered or otherwise damaged to be displayed properly. Flags that have reached the end of their lifespan are to be disposed of in a dignified manner, preferably by fire; however, many flags are made from nylon or other materials that produce toxic fumes when burned, and it may be illegal to burn a flag due to the potential for the release of dangerous pollutants. In this case, the flag can be turned over to the local Veterans of Foreign Wars chapter for proper disposal. In many cases, these chapters hold ceremonies on Flag Day where cotton or wool flags are burned and synthetic flags are buried with appropriate ceremony.
The Flag Code was established in 1942 by Franklin Delano Roosevelt. It came about in part due to the misuse of the flag on commercial packaging and advertising materials in the 19th century.
Learn more about Cultures & TraditionsRelated Questions
-
Q:
What are some of the reasons for flying the flag at half-staff?
A: The U.S. flag flies at half-staff on specific remembrance days on a yearly basis or out of respect for the deaths of U.S. political leaders. By presidentia... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What is the proper method of disposal for the U.S. flag?
A: An unserviceable U.S. flag may be destroyed in any dignified manner, according to the U.S. Code. Burning is the most common dignified method of disposal, t... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Which country has a plain green flag?
A: Prior to 2011, the country of Libya's flag was a plain green flag. Libya's current flag has three horizontal bars in order of red, black and green, with th... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Why do we fold the American flag in a triangle?
A: The United States flag is folded into the shape of a triangle to represent a tri-cornered hat, in homage to the hats wore by colonial soldiers in the fight... Full Answer >Filed Under:
