American Flag patch

[fish-on-bro]

OK, I am sewing a American Flag patch on my fly fishing vest, should it be sewn on my left pocket or right pocket. Orientation would be MY left and right. I know it might sound crazy, but I do not want to put it on a wrong side, if there is one.
Thanks,
Fish-on-bro, out....

[darrin terry]

I found the following at this website… http://www.tioh.hqda.pentagon.mil/FAQs/faqs.aspx

This is from question 6:

"How should the American Flag patch be worn?

The U.S. Code states "no part of the flag should ever be used as a costume or athletic uniform. However, a flag patch may be affixed to the uniform of military personnel, firemen, policemen, and members of patriotic organizations. The flag represents a living country and is itself considered a living thing. Therefore, the lapel flag pin being a replica should be worn on the left lapel near the heart."
The U.S. Code does not address the positioning of the flag patch. It is appropriate to wear an American flag patch on the left or right sleeve. When worn on the left sleeve, the union would appear towards the front and the stripes would run horizontally toward the back. When worn on the right sleeve, it is considered proper to reverse the design so that the union is at the observer’s right to suggest that the flag is flying in the breeze as the wearer moves forward.
Since the law does not specifically address the positioning of the patch, a decision is left to the discretion of the organization prescribing the wear. As many states and cities have ordinances pertaining to the use of the flag, you may wish to contact the Attorney General of your state or the City Attorney’s office regarding this matter."

I must say I am pleased to see someone actually ask. I see the flag displayed in a disrespectful manner every day. I think many just do not realize there are established rules for its display and that is considered to be a living entity. The rules are intended to show respect for the flag and all it stands for. Thank you for understanding this. It does get noticed and it does matter.

[Rockstar Fisherman]

Thanks for the info, I've been wondering this as well.

[fflutterffly]

The flag is a very sentimental reminder of not only it's symbolism as a living item, but reminds me everyday of those who participate in keeping us all safe. I don't need a specific holiday to remind me of what is sacrificed. I still stand at home and do the pledge or anthem when it come on before the games. Great question. Perfect answer.

[RiverRat]

great question. Side closest to the heart. That is also why Boy Scouts shake hands with their left hand. Closer to the heart than the right!

Nice research Darrin.

shane

[fish-on-bro]

Thanks for the info Darrin. I wanted the right etiquette with no disrespect.

Fish-on-bro, out....

[darrin terry]

great question. Side closest to the heart. That is also why Boy Scouts shake hands with their left hand. Closer to the heart than the right!

Nice research Darrin.

shane

Interesting, Shane. I had known of Scouts using the left hand but had heard the reason/origin was much different. Something about the left hand/arm being the one which would bear a shield while right was the traditional sword arm. Supposedly when a truce or such was agreed upon the left hand would be used when shaking hands, thus leaving the shield side of the body vulnerable to attack if the other person still had a sword or dagger in his right hand.

I've seen this version several times, but never knew what the truth is. I suppose I could look it up on the Scouts website as I have done for many other things.

FOB, happy to help.

Darrin

[darrin terry]

I did not find what I was looking for on their website, but found some info at Wikipedia. Certainly not always the authority, but much good info is found there.

Here's as link to the Wikipedia page…

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scout_handshake

Also this…

http://www.netpages.free-online.co.uk/sha/lhs.htm

Who knows.

[RiverRat]

Appreciate the proper etiquette in such important matters! The American flag is the most loved and abused flag in the world.

Boy Scout Handbook 2010
"The Scout Handshake is made with the hand nearest to the heart and is offered as a token of friendship. Extend your left hand to another Scout and firmly grasp his left hand. The finger do not interlock"

Who knows where it started but that is how it's taught now.

If any forum members need flags retired you can send them to me. Our troop does respectful flag retirement ceremonies with a bugler and everything! Our last one was up on the Kern and we invited everyone and had most of the campground in tears.

shane

[darrin terry]

Nice, Shane. I've a friend whose dad is an Elks Lodge member and we get our old flags to him for retirement as they do flag retirement ceremonies each year.

[FFFF]

The American Flag takes position to the right of any other flag as it would look out at something.....right side being the position of honor. I can't recall where we put it on our cammie sleeves when we were overseas.....but I seem to remember it being on the right side.
Booyah for you wanting to fly Old Glory!!!!!

[ptflashback]

Darrin:

First, thank you for asking. Additionally, I echo the above-mentioned. As Soldiers, we proudly wear the reverse American flag on the right shoulder while deployed. If you look at the uniform of troops overseas, the flag does appear mirrored or reversed. It is this way so as to create the visual impression that we are charging forward in battle with the guidon, the American flag, leading the charge. (Just as your description indicates.)

Tight lines, and thank you all for respecting what we fight to protect.

CPT S

[fly addict]

This is how not to display the American Flag! The * that did this should be hung.

Mark

[FFFF]

The American Flag always takes precedence over any nation in when flown in our country. Flying it upside down is a signal for distress........there is some irony to that picture if you think about it.