Our Military flags are 100% made in USA, the only place United States’ military flags should be made! At Star Spangled Flags, all flags are crafted using high quality nylon and treated to prevent pre-mature fading. Every flag comes with a certification label as proof.
Official Military Branch Flags
-
In the U.S. armed forces, the dining halls, mess halls and chow halls display a single table and chair in a corner draped with the POW-MIA flag.
-
The Marine flag flies on many occasions such as ceremonies, parades, installations, and more.
-
The Navy flag flies on many occasions such as ceremonies, parades, installations, and more.
-
The US Army flag flies on many occasions such as ceremonies, parades, installations, and more.
-
The Air Force flag flies on many occasions such as ceremonies, parades, installations, and more.
-
The Air Force flag flies on many occasions such as ceremonies, parades, installations, and more.
-
The Coast Guard flag flies on many occasions such as ceremonies, parades, installations, and more.
United States Armed Forces flags
When you display a United States military flag from Star Spangled Flags, you’re doing more than decorating your home or office—you’re making a visible statement of respect, gratitude, and support for the men and women who defend our freedom. Whether you’re an active-duty service member, a proud veteran, a military family member, or simply an American who wants to honor those who serve, official military branch flags provide a powerful way to show your appreciation.
Why Display Military Branch Flags?
Military flags represent the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of each branch of the United States Armed Forces. From the Army’s ground operations to the Navy’s maritime dominance, from the Marines’ expeditionary readiness to the Air Force’s air superiority, from the Coast Guard’s coastal protection to the Space Force’s defense of our orbital assets—each branch plays a vital role in protecting American interests at home and abroad.
Veterans display their branch flags to honor their service and maintain connection with their military identity. Active-duty families fly them to show support for loved ones currently serving. Businesses display military flags to demonstrate appreciation for the military community. Schools and universities with ROTC programs use them to inspire future officers. VFW halls, American Legion posts, and community centers display all branch flags to honor every service member who has worn the uniform.
Understanding Military Branch Flags
Each branch of the United States military has its own official flag featuring unique emblems, colors, and symbolism that reflect its mission, history, and values. These flags are displayed at military installations, recruitment centers, ceremonial events, and in homes across America.
The Heritage Behind Military Flags
The United States military branch flags we recognize today evolved over centuries of American military history. The Army, Navy, and Marine Corps trace their origins to 1775, making them among the oldest military organizations in continuous service. The Coast Guard’s lineage dates to 1790 as the Revenue Cutter Service. The Air Force became an independent branch in 1947, emerging from Army Air Forces. The Space Force, established in 2019, is America’s newest military branch, recognizing the critical importance of space domain operations in modern defense.
Each flag’s design incorporates meaningful symbolism. Military emblems typically feature eagles representing American strength and freedom, anchors symbolizing maritime heritage, stars denoting excellence and aspiration, and colors carrying specific meanings—blue for loyalty and vigilance, red for valor and sacrifice, gold for achievement and honor.
Choosing the Right Military Flag
Official vs. Decorative Flags
When purchasing a military branch flag, quality and authenticity matter. Official military flags follow specific design specifications established by each branch. These flags feature accurate colors, proper emblem placement, and authentic symbolism. Cheap imported flags often use incorrect colors, printed rather than embroidered details, and inferior materials that fade quickly under sun exposure.
Our military flags are 100% Made in USA, manufactured to meet government and military specifications. We use premium nylon fabric specifically treated with UV-resistant coating to prevent premature fading, ensuring your flag maintains vibrant colors through multiple seasons of outdoor display. The difference between a quality American-made military flag and a mass-produced import is immediately visible—and that difference matters when honoring those who serve.
Size Considerations for Military Flags
Military flags are available in several standard sizes to accommodate different display situations:
3×5 Foot Flags: The most popular size for residential display, perfect for standard residential flagpoles (15-25 feet tall) and indoor mounting. This size provides excellent visibility without overwhelming smaller spaces.
4×6 Foot Flags: Ideal for larger homes, businesses, or institutional settings with taller flagpoles (25-35 feet). This size makes a stronger visual statement while maintaining proper proportions.
5×8 Foot Flags: Commercial and institutional grade, suited for very tall flagpoles (35-50 feet) at military installations, government buildings, or large corporate campuses.
For indoor display, consider 3×5 flags for wall mounting or flag stands. Outdoor flags should be sized appropriately to your flagpole height—a flag that’s too small looks lost, while an oversized flag can damage the pole in high winds.
How to Display Military Branch Flags
Single Branch Display
When displaying a single military branch flag with the American flag, the U.S. flag always takes the position of honor—the highest point and to its own right (viewer’s left). The military branch flag should be positioned to the left of the American flag and should be the same size or smaller. Both flags should be raised briskly and lowered ceremoniously, never touching the ground.
Multiple Branch Display
When displaying multiple military branch flags, follow the official order of precedence based on establishment dates:
- United States Flag (center, highest position)
- U.S. Army Flag
- U.S. Marine Corps Flag
- U.S. Navy Flag
- U.S. Air Force Flag
- U.S. Space Force Flag
- U.S. Coast Guard Flag
This order respects the seniority of each branch. During wartime, the Coast Guard may be positioned differently as it operates under the Department of the Navy rather than Homeland Security.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Display
Indoor military flags are often displayed with decorative finials (eagle, spear, or ball) atop flagpoles mounted in stands. These flags may feature gold fringe, which is traditional for ceremonial indoor use. Indoor flags don’t face the same weather challenges as outdoor flags, so lighter-weight materials are acceptable.
Outdoor military flags must withstand wind, rain, sun, and temperature extremes. Quality construction becomes critical—reinforced stitching, weather-resistant materials, and UV protection are essential for flags that will fly outdoors year-round. Our outdoor military flags feature quadruple stitching on the fly end (the edge that whips in the wind) because this area experiences the most stress and wear.
Military Flag Etiquette and Care
Proper Display Hours
Military flags should be displayed only from sunrise to sunset unless properly illuminated at night. If you choose to fly your military flag 24 hours, install a spotlight or flagpole light to ensure it remains visible after dark. Many military installations and veterans’ organizations display flags around the clock as a symbol of constant vigilance.
Weather Considerations
While quality all-weather nylon flags can withstand normal rain and wind, it’s respectful to lower flags during severe weather conditions such as heavy storms, hurricanes, or extreme winds that could damage the flag. A tattered or torn military flag dishonors those it represents—always retire damaged flags properly and replace them promptly.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Outdoor military flags should be inspected regularly for signs of wear, fading, or damage. To clean, hand wash in cold water with mild detergent, rinse thoroughly, and allow to air dry completely before rehanging. Never machine wash or dry military flags, as this can damage the fabric and stitching. Proper care extends your flag’s lifespan and maintains its dignified appearance.
Special Occasions for Flying Military Flags
Military branch flags are especially meaningful on these occasions:
Memorial Day (last Monday in May): Honor fallen service members from all branches
Armed Forces Day (third Saturday in May): Celebrate all currently serving military personnel
Flag Day (June 14): Also the U.S. Army’s birthday
Independence Day (July 4): Commemorate American freedom and those who defend it
Veterans Day (November 11): Honor all who have served in any branch
Branch-Specific Birthdays: Each branch celebrates its founding with special ceremonies
Military families often display their service member’s branch flag during deployments, homecomings, promotions, retirements, and memorial services. These flags provide comfort, connection, and visible support during challenging times.
The POW/MIA Flag: A Sacred Promise
No discussion of military flags is complete without mentioning the POW/MIA flag. This black flag with its white silhouette and the words “You Are Not Forgotten” represents a solemn commitment to account for every service member. Federal law requires the POW/MIA flag to be displayed at specific locations and on designated days, but many Americans choose to fly it year-round as a constant reminder that we will never stop searching for those who didn’t return home.
Why Choose Made in USA Military Flags
Military flags should be made in the country they represent. When you purchase an American-made military flag, you’re supporting American workers and manufacturers while ensuring your flag meets authentic military specifications. Our flags aren’t mass-produced overseas—they’re crafted by skilled American workers who understand the significance of what they’re creating.
Every flag we produce features embroidered emblems rather than cheap screen printing. We use lock stitching throughout to prevent unraveling, a problem common with chain-stitched imported flags. Our brass grommets are reinforced and rust-resistant, ensuring secure attachment to any standard flagpole. Each flag includes a certification label proving its American origin—a mark of quality and authenticity.
Honoring Service Through Display
Whether you served in the military, have family members who serve, or simply want to express gratitude to those who defend our nation, displaying an official military branch flag is a meaningful way to show respect and support. These flags represent real people—sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters—who have volunteered to stand between America and those who would do us harm.
When you raise a military flag on your flagpole or mount it on your wall, you’re participating in a tradition of honor that spans generations. You’re telling service members, veterans, and their families: “I see your sacrifice. I remember your service. I support your mission.”
That message matters. That’s why the flag you choose should be worthy of those it honors—authentic, durable, and made with the same pride and dedication that characterizes American military service.
Start Honoring Our Military Today
Explore Star Spangled Flags’ complete collection of official United States military branch flags, all 100% Made in USA with premium materials and construction. Whether you’re honoring your own service, supporting a loved one, or simply expressing gratitude to all who serve, you’ll find the perfect flag to display your respect and appreciation for America’s Armed Forces.
