AMERICAN FLAGS DESERVE PROPER DISPLAY

CAPE GIRARDEAU -- Since so many people are purchasing American flags, here is a review of the guidelines for proper display of the flag.

Following are excerpts from The Flag Code, as printed by the American Legion.

* It is the universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on stationary flag staffs in the open. However, the flag may be displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.

* It should be hoisted briskly and should be lowered slowly and ceremoniously.

* During inclement weather, the flag should not be displayed unless an all-weather flag is used.

* When carried in a procession with another flag or flags, the flag of the United States should be on the flag's own right (the viewer's left). When there is a line of other flags, the flag of the United States may be in front of the center of that line.

* When displayed with another flag against a wall from crossed staffs, the flag of the United States of America should be on the flag's own right (the viewer's left) and its staff should be in front of the staff of the other flag.

* When used on a speaker's platform, the flag, if displayed flat, should be displayed above and behind the speaker. The union (blue field) should be uppermost and to the flag's right, that is to the observer's left.

* When displayed from a staff in a church or public auditorium, the flag should hold the position of honor at the clergyman's or speaker's right as he faces the audience. Any other flag displayed should be placed on the left of the speaker.

* When displayed in a window, the flag should be displayed in the same way with the union to the left of the observer in the street.

* When the flag is in such a condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, it should not be cast aside or used in any way that might be viewed as disrespectful to the national colors, but should be destroyed, preferably in a dignified way by burning or by some other method in harmony with the reverence and respect we owe to the emblem representing our country.

* Do not let the flag touch the ground or the floor or trail in the water.

* Do not fasten the flag in such manner as will permit it to be easily torn easily.

* Do not drape the flag over the hood, top, sides or back of a vehicle or of a railway train or boat.

* Do not display the flag on a float or in a parade except from a staff.