“Old Glory” in the 21st Century 2025

“Old Glory” in the 21st Century 2025

The American Flag is a symbol of many ideas, and history

By Christina Reed
The Hired Pen

“When we honor our flag we honor what we stand for as a Nation—freedom, equality, justice, and hope.”—President Ronald Reagan

California, USA–“The American Flag is more than the cloth and colors that we see. The Flag embodies the principles, history, and people who make the United States what it is.” National Flag Foundation

*According to the recommendations in the U.S. Code, the American Flag should be displayed with respect and care. (Source: National Flag Foundation)

The Flag should not be flown with the union down (Stars) (except for in rare emergencies as a sign of distress). The Flag should not touch the ground, floor, water, merchandise or anything beneath it. The Flag should never be carried flat or horizontally but left aloft and free to blow in the wind. The Flag should not be dipped or tipped to any person or thing.
Taking the American Flag to Respectful Occasions

Wearing the American Flag, picnic tableware, coffee cups, sweatshirts and curtains are not patriotic. The U.S. Code considers these to be disrespectful toward the Flag. The American Flag should never be worn as apparel. The Flag should not be used for advertising purposes.

The American Flag should not be embroidered or printed on cushions, napkins, boxes or anything else that is discarded after temporary use. Advertisement posters should not be attached to a flagpole. The American Flag should never have words, designs or any other mark drawn or attached to it. It is not appropriate for our leaders to sign the American flag. It is not respectful to “get creative” and make new art from a US Flag. The Flag should not be used as a costume or athletic uniform. The Flag should not be used for delivering, carrying or receiving something.

The American Flag should be kept in good condition. One should make sure their flag is clean, dry, and protected from harsh weather elements. The American Flag should be stored carefully when not in use. “The American Flag is more than the cloth and colors that we see. The Flag embodies the principles, history, and people who make the United States what it is.” National Flag Foundation.

Footnote in history: As of January 21, 2025, the new Trump administration, under Secretary of State, Marco Rubio’s orders, has new announcements. “Starting immediately, only the United States of America flag is authorized to be flown or displayed at U.S. facilities, both domestic and abroad, and featured in U.S. government content.”

Summary: Betsy Ross showing Major Ross and Robert Morris how she cut the stars for the American flag; George Washington sits in a chair on the left. Ferris, Jean Leon Gerome, 1863-1930, artist.  Created / Published: Cleveland, Ohio : The Foundation Press, Inc., c1932 July 28. Photo courtesy of The Library of Congress