Are you planning to display a military flag with the American flag? Each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces has its own official flag. There’s a flag for the U.S. Army, a flag for the U.S. Marine Corps, a flag for the U.S. Navy, a flag for the U.S. Air Force, a flag for the U.S. Coast Guard and a flag for the U.S. National Guard. Whether you’re a current or former service member — or if you’re simply a patriotic citizen — you may want to display one of these military flags. If you’re going to display it with the American flag, though, there are a few things you should know.
Displaying on the Same Pole
You can display the military flag on the same pole as the American flag. According to the U.S. Flag Code, the American flag should be given precedence when displayed on the same pole as one or more military flags. In other words, the American flag should be at the top of the pole, whereas all other military flags on the same pole should be lower than it.
Whether you’re displaying the U.S. Army flag, the U.S. Navy flag or any other military flag with the American flag, you should place it below the American flag. Poles are available in different sizes. Most of them, though, can accommodate multiple flags. When displaying the American flag on a pole, you should raise it to the top. You can then display one or more military flags below the American flag on the same pole. The U.S. flag code specifically states that the American flag should be at the top when displayed on the same pole as one or more military flags.
Displaying on Separate Poles
Another option is to display the military flag and American flag on separate poles. You don’t have to display the military flag and the American flag on the same pole. You can display them on separate poles, assuming the American flag is on the observer’s left.
When displaying the military flag and American flag on separate poles, the American flag should be on the observer’s left. When standing in front of the flags, for example, you should see the American flag on your left and the military flag on your right. This formation means that the American flag will be on the “observer’s left,” which is proper etiquette when displaying it alongside a military flag with separate poles.
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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
