In the 1976 revsion of the Flag Code by Congress, the symbolism of the United State flag is considered to be a living symbol representing a living country. This reference was added in response to the strong feelings of respect and reverence accorded by many of our citizens. In addition, the flag represents the many freedoms, rights, and responsibilities not entrusted to the citizens of any other country in the world. Therefore, the proper display and use of the United States flag is the responsibility of every American citizen.
To order a copy of Let's Be Right on Flag Etiquette, a publication of The American Legion, contact firstname.lastname@example.org. The booklets are $1 each.
As with any codification of rules and customs, the Flag Code is not intended to cover every instance of display and use. The guidelines in the code cover a number of situations and practices which were traditionally used prior to the passage of the law. Common sense in most other cases will dictate the proper display and respect due the flag.
There are no Flag Code provision which require a specific method for folding the flag, however, the instructions contained here, cover the traditional method.
The Code suggests that, "when a flag has served its useful purpose, it should be destroyed, preferably by burning." For individual citizens this should be done discreetly so that the act of destruction is not perceived as a protest or desecration. Many American Legion Posts conduct Disposal of Unservicable Flag Ceremonies on June 14, Flag Day, each year. This ceremony creates a particularly dignified and solemn occasion for the disposal of unservicable flags.
To honor America's war dead, and in memory of all who have died at the hands of our enemies, we the undersigned petition the President of the United States for an amendment to the Constitution of the United States that will allow the US Congress, by law, to prohibit the physical desecration of the Flag of the United States of America.
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.