United States Flag

In the wake of the fourth of July we are reminded of our independence and freedom. The United States Flag, also referred to as the American Flag, is the symbol of freedom around the world. There are some guidelines regarding displaying the flag on a vessel. Let’s talk about that.

The United States Flag, also called the United States Ensign, may be displayed on a vessel from 0800 (8:00 a.m. for you landlubbers) until sunset. The size of the flag should be one inch “on the fly” for every foot of overall length of the vessel. The “fly” is the longer of the two dimensions of a flag.

Vessels displaying the flag are generally owned by patriotic mariners. I lived aboard two ships for a total of three and a half years (they were owned by Uncle Sam). We flew the American flag every day. In addition to the obvious reasons, the flag also showed respect to the individuals that served our country, each and every one of them to preserve someone else’s freedom.

Over time, there have been many instances of disrespect for the flag which translates to disrespect for those that sacrificed to ensure that the flag still flies. I have little tolerance for disrespect, much less disrespect for those that sacrificed so that we can enjoy our way of life.

About a week before the Fourth of July this year I observed what looked like the U.S. Flag displayed at a local business. As I got a closer look, I noticed that the flag in question had a “peace symbol” in the blue field in place of the 50 white stars. In all other respects it resembled the American flag.

I wasted no time informing the manager of the local business that I took offense to the modified flag and that I thought others would as well. It is a free country and I have no objection to the peace symbol being displayed by those who chose to do so. However, to modify the American Flag by adding that symbol is not acceptable.

In 1923, the U.S. Congress enacted a statute dealing with the proper display of the U.S. Flag. Title 4, Chapter 1, Section 8, Paragraph (g) of the United States Code states that “The flag should never have placed upon it, nor on any part of it, nor attached to it any mark, insignia, letter, word, figure, design, picture, or drawing of any nature.” Accordingly, what is known as the “peace symbol” has no place on the American Flag.

Paragraph (j) of that same section states that “No part of the flag should ever be used as a costume or athletic uniform. However, a flag patch may be affixed to the uniform of military personnel, firemen, policemen, and members of patriotic organizations. The flag represents a living country and is itself considered a living thing. Therefore, the lapel flag pin being a replica, should be worn on the left lapel near the heart.”

The American Flag flies over our military while they are engaged in defending our freedom. It drapes the casket of those who make the ultimate sacrifice. For those, and many other reasons, the least we can do is show some respect.

Until next time, I wish you clear skies, fair winds, and calm seas!