Don't Fly That Flag! BURN IT!!!!!

Thought that might get your attention. Over the weekend while out and about doing my real estate thing, I noticed a lot of American flags that were in absolutely disgusting condition.

Maybe people think it's better to fly a worn out, ripped flag than no flag at all, but they're wrong. It's very disrespectful to the Symbol of Our Country.

I wrote a post on this subject on my outside blog, PikeWaynePAblog.com This is the nutshell version (trying to avoid duplicate content issues here.) If anyone is interested in reading my entire article, click here.

Here is the essence of my post...

• Dispose of worn, torn, and faded flags in a proper manner - the flag code states "a dignified manner, preferably by burning." This does not mean to toss it in the campfire or put it in the burning barrel. Contact your local American Legion or Boy Scouts - they may have a regular ceremonial flag burning event specifically to dispose of retired flags.
• Do not leave the flag out at night unless it is lit.
• Do not leave the flag out in inclement weather unless it is designed for all weather use.
• Do not display the flag improperly. If it is not hanging from a flag pole, the flag is to be displayed with the union (stars) in the upper left hand corner when facing it. Do not fasten the flag in such a way that it can be torn. Do not pull it back like drapery...bunting is to be used for that purpose.
  

In my opinion, if you can't fly a bright, beautiful, and intact American Flag, don't fly one at all. Give the flag to the VFW and/or Boy Scouts and let them retire it in dignity. And if you're a flag hater and would like to disrespect the flag, please just burn it and get it over with.

For more on proper flag etiquette:

US Flag Code Info

American Flag Hall of Shame

Tattered, A Photo Essay

U.S.A. Flag Site

Patriotic Links

Photo of Tattered Flag by mockstar, courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons.

WEICHERT, REALTORS® - Paupack Group Independently Owned and Operated

Karen E. Rice is a real estate agent working in Pike & Wayne County of Northeastern PA in the Pocono Mountains. Lake Wallenpaupack is one of Pennsylvania's most popular destinations for vacations, retirement, and purchasing a home.