Memorial Day is widely celebrated as the unofficial start of summer but what the day truly celebrates and acknowledges is something much more meaningful and patriotic. 

 

Established as an official federal holiday in 1971, Memorial Day is a holiday that celebrates and recognizes the soldiers who have given their lives in the line of duty defending the USA. The day takes place on the last Monday each May.

Given the important historical and patriotic significance of Memorial Day, it should come as no surprise that there are specific Memorial Day flag etiquette guidelines and rules that must be followed! Below is the Memorial Day flag protocol so you can be sure you’re flying your flags correctly.

Flag etiquette on Memorial Day is unique.

• At sunrise, flags are to be raised to full staff briskly, then lowered to half staff position where they will remain until noon.

• At noon, flags are to be raised to full-staff and will be displayed there for the remainder of the holiday. 

If you are unable to display the flag at half staff on Memorial Day, proper flag etiquette requires that you display your flag with a black mourning ribbon to show respect and acknowledge the somber meaning of the day.

Memorial Day is a great time to show your pride for your country and now you can do it properly!