· By Drew Whitmore
Flag Display Tips for Veterans and Military Families
Honoring Service: Flag Display Tips for Veterans and Military Families
Displaying the American flag carries deep meaning for veterans and military families. It represents sacrifice, duty, and enduring pride in a country.
Following proper flag display tips ensures the USA flag is flown with the respect it deserves — and in a way that honors loved ones who served.
1. Choose the Right Flagpole for your Home
A strong, reliable flagpole is the foundation for proper display. Veterans and families often prefer a permanent, outdoor flagpole that conveys stability and respect.
A 24ft flagpole kit is one of the most popular choices for residential yards, giving the American flag prominence without overpowering the home.
When selecting a pole, consider wind rating, material, and height to ensure it withstands weather and remains a lasting tribute.
For more insights, see our guide on top American flag display mistakes.
2. Understand the Order of Precedence
When flying multiple flags, the American flag always comes first. Veterans and military families often display service branch flags alongside the national flag. The correct order of precedence is:
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United States flag
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State flag
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Military service flags (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, Coast Guard)
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POW/MIA flag or other organizational banners
Never place another flag above or to the right of the American flag. This order reflects respect for national service while still recognizing individual branches.
3. Select the Right Size USA Flag
The size of your American flag should be proportional to your flagpole.
A common guideline is that the length of the flag should be one-quarter the height of the pole. For example, a 24ft pole is best paired with a 5x8ft flag.
Veterans who wish to display additional service flags may consider slightly smaller companion flags so that the USA flag maintains visual prominence.
Flying a properly sized flag keeps the display balanced and dignified. To avoid errors, see our article on should you fly the American flag in bad weather.
4. Follow Respectful Daily Practices
Veterans and military families often treat raising and lowering the USA flag as a ritual. Follow these key etiquette rules:
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Raise the flag briskly and lower it ceremoniously.
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Only fly the flag from sunrise to sunset, unless it is illuminated at night.
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Never allow the flag to touch the ground.
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In bad weather, fly only all-weather flags unless you choose to lower it.
For added guidance, see our article on flag etiquette to ensure every display meets traditional standards.
5. Honor Special Days with Care
Veterans and families often display the flag on key national days such as Memorial Day, Independence Day, Veterans Day, Armed Forces Day, and Flag Day.
On Memorial Day, the USA flag should be flown at half-staff until noon, then raised to full-staff.
Half-staff displays may also be observed when directed by the President or state governors.
These practices connect personal traditions to the larger national community of service and remembrance.
6. Retire Old Flags Respectfully
When a USA flag becomes worn, veterans and families understand it should be retired with honor.
Retirement ceremonies often include burning the flag in a dignified manner, or working with local veteran organizations who provide proper services.
For detailed guidance, see our post on why you should retire your flag respectfully.
7. Support the Display with Quality Accessories
Solar lights, mounts, and care kits ensure your flag is always displayed properly.
A well-lit flagpole allows families to keep the American flag raised at night in compliance with law.
For those who want to extend the life of their USA flag, maintenance tools and replacement flags are readily available through American made flags.
Conclusion
For veterans and military families, flying the USA flag is more than a tradition — it’s a daily act of honor and remembrance.
By following these flag display tips, every display becomes a visible expression of pride, sacrifice, and respect.
When you’re ready to equip your home with a flagpole worthy of service, visit Americana Flagpoles.
For questions or personalized assistance, reach out through our contact us page.