How to Display the American Flag with a US State Flag

From sea to shining sea, Americans proudly display our nation’s stars and stripes alongside their state flags. Whether you’re setting up a display at your home, business, or community center, it’s essential to show proper respect for both flags by following official guidelines stated in the U.S. Flag Code. Let’s explore everything you need to know about displaying these powerful symbols of our nation and states together proudly and correctly! Click here for the details.

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Flagpole Display: Reaching for the Sky

Single Flagpole Protocol

When using a single flagpole, the U.S. flag must always claim the position of honor at the very top according to the U.S. Veterans Affairs (VA). Your state flag should be mounted below it on the same pole. The only exception to this rule occurs during church services conducted by the Navy.

Dual Flagpole Arrangements

If you’re using two separate flagpoles, position the U.S. flag on its own pole to the observer’s left. This pole should be either taller than or equal in height to the state flag’s pole. This arrangement creates a dignified display that honors both flags while maintaining proper protocol.

Size Matters

Here’s an important detail many people overlook: when displayed together, the American flag should never appear smaller than your state flag. Always ensure it’s either larger or the same size as accompanying flags.

Wall and Indoor Display: Making a Proper Statement

Wall Mounting

For wall displays, position both flags at the same height, with the United States flag on the observer’s left and the state flag on the right. This creates a balanced, respectful presentation perfect for indoor spaces.

Staff Displays

When displaying both flags on staffs indoors (such as in conference rooms or auditoriums), place the U.S. flag on the speaker’s right side (audience’s left). When flags cross staffs, the U.S. flag’s staff should always be in front of the state flag’s staff.

Essential Care and Protocol

Weather Considerations

Protect your flags from the elements by:

• Using all-weather flags for outdoor display
• Taking flags down during severe weather (unless using all-weather flags)
• Ensuring proper illumination for nighttime display

Raising and Lowering Ceremony

Show proper respect during daily flag operations:

1. Always raise the U.S. flag first
2. Lower it last at day’s end
3. Raise briskly, lower ceremoniously

Half-Staff Protocol

When half-staff display is appropriate:

• Lower both flags to honor the occasion
• Position the U.S. flag first at half-staff
• Raise it to full staff first when the mourning period ends

Maintaining Flag Dignity

Quality Control

Preserve the dignity of both flags by:

• Regularly inspecting for wear, tears, and fading
• Replacing flags when they become worn or damaged
• Keeping flags clean and well-maintained

Proper Disposal

When a flag reaches the end of its service:

• For U.S. flags: Coordinate with local veterans’ organizations or Boy Scout troops for proper ceremonial disposal
• For state flags: Follow your state’s specific guidelines for respectful disposal
• Never throw flags in the trash or handle them disrespectfully

Additional Tips for Perfect Display

• Ensure both flags are properly illuminated if displayed at night
• Use flags of similar material when displaying together
• Clean or replace flags that become soiled or damaged
• Consider using a flag pole sleeve or cover when storing flags

Remember, proper flag display isn’t just about following rules—it’s about showing respect for our nation and state symbols. These guidelines for how to display the American flag with a US state flag help ensure we honor these important emblems of our heritage and unity in the most appropriate way possible.

By following these protocols, you’ll create a display that not only looks impressive but also properly honors both our national and state symbols. Whether you’re raising these flags at your home, business, or public space, you’re participating in a proud tradition of patriotic display that spans generations.