Each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces has its own official flag. The official flag for the U.S. Marine Corps, for instance, consists of an eagle sitting atop a globe with an anchor through the center. You’ll often see this flag displayed at the U.S. Marine Corps ceremonies. To learn more about the U.S. Marine Corps flag, keep reading.
History of the US Marine Corps Flag
The U.S. Marine Corps flag was adopted on Jan. 18, 1939. Prior to that time, the U.S. Marine Corps carried a different flag. During the mid-1800s, for instance, the U.S. Marine Corps flag featured a white background with gold fringe. It still had an anchor and a globe, but it didn’t have the same eagle as depicted in the current and official version of the U.S. Marine Corps flag.
In 1914, The U.S. Marine Corps began carrying yet another flag. The design used during this period consisted of a blue background with a wreath wrapped around the U.S. Marine Corps emblem. At the top of the design were the words “U.S. Marine Corps.” And at the bottom of the design were the words “Semper Fidelis,” which is the U.S. Marine Corps motto.
It wasn’t until 1939 when the current version of the U.S. Marine Corps flag was officially adopted. During this year, the U.S. Marine Corps Board approved a proposal for a new design. The U.S. Marine Corps has continued to carry and use this design ever since.
The Design of the US Marine Corps Flag
As shown in the photo above, the U.S. Marine Corps flag features a scarlet-colored background with an eagle and globe. The eagle and globe, of course, represent the U.S. Marine Corps emblem. The emblem features an eagle sitting atop a globe. The globe has an anchor running diagonally through the center. Above the eagle is a banner with the words “Semper Fidelis.” At the bottom of the design are the words “United States Marine Corps.”
Fringe vs Non-Fringed Versions of the US Marine Corps Flag
The U.S. Marine Corps flag may or may not have fringe. Fringe consists of fabric bundles attached to the edges. When displayed outdoors, the U.S. Marine Corps flag typically doesn’t feature fringe. When displayed indoors or during ceremonies, on the other hand, it will typically feature fringe.
Gold-colored fringe is used for the U.S. Marine Corps flag. When the U.S. Marine Corps flag is displayed indoors or during ceremonies, it will have gold-colored fringe around its edges.
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About the author
Barry Mason is a proud third-generation American whose grandfather served in World War II. Born and raised in small-town Tennessee, Barry developed a deep appreciation for American history and traditions from an early age, learning about the sacrifices made by previous generations. Barry has spent over a decade writing about flag etiquette, patriotic traditions, military history, and the stories behind America's most cherished symbols. When he's not researching the fascinating history of Old Glory, you can find Barry volunteering at veterans' events, coaching youth baseball, or exploring America's national parks with his family. A firm believer in supporting American manufacturing and small businesses, Barry is passionate about celebrating the craftspeople who keep American traditions alive. He lives with his wife and two children in a home where the American flag flies proudly every day. Favorite quote: "Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction." - Ronald Reagan
