10-15-2025

Veterans Day Flag Etiquette: How to Honor with the Proper Display

Veterans Day (November 11) is one of the most important days to proudly display the American flag. It is a time to recognize and honor all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. But honoring our heroes means following proper flag display etiquette to ensure respect and dignity. Below is a guide on how to correctly display the flag this Veterans Day.

When and How to Fly the American Flag on Veterans Day

According to the U.S. Flag Code, the flag should be flown from sunrise to sunset on stationary flagpoles. If you wish to fly it overnight, it must be properly illuminated so it remains visible in the dark.
On Veterans Day, the flag is flown at full staff, not half-staff, unless a presidential or gubernatorial proclamation specifically orders otherwise. Veterans Day is a celebration of service, not a day of mourning, so the flag should fly high to represent honor and gratitude.

Full Staff Flag.jpg__PID:97985b78-5fb5-4733-80dd-8ff162037553

Example of a full staff flag raised on Vetrens Day

Flag Illuminated at night.jpg__PID:82515f50-c7c5-4b31-9af7-d85592ed25b4

Example of American flag at full staff and illuminated at night on Vetrens Day

Understanding Half-Staff Rules for the American Flag

Although Veterans Day is not a half-staff observance, understanding the rules for other occasions helps ensure your display is always correct.

Proper Half-Staff Procedure for the American Flag

Raise the flag to the peak first. Hoist the flag briskly to the top of the pole.
Lower it slowly to the halfway point. This is typically halfway between the top and bottom of the pole.
End of observance. Before lowering for the day, raise the flag back to full staff, then bring it down respectfully.

If your flagpole does not have a mechanism for lowering to half-staff, you can display a black mourning ribbon or streamer at the top of the flag instead.

Special Exception: Memorial Day

On Memorial Day, the flag is flown at half-staff until noon, then raised to full staff for the rest of the day. This tradition honors those who gave their lives in service while still celebrating their sacrifice.

Additional U.S. Flag Etiquette Tips

Keep it off the ground: Never allow the flag to touch the ground, floor, or water.
Use bunting, not flags, for decoration: The flag should never be used as drapery, clothing, or table covering.
Placement matters: When flown with other flags, the U.S. flag should be on its own right (observer’s left) and always above subordinate flags.
Night display: Always ensure the flag is well illuminated if flown after dark.
Proper retirement: When a flag becomes worn or faded, it should be disposed of respectfully, usually by burning in a dignified ceremony. Many American Legion or VFW posts offer proper flag retirement services.

Final Reminder for Veterans Day

On Veterans Day, proudly fly your American flag at full staff from sunrise to sunset unless an official order instructs otherwise. Avoid lowering it to half-staff, as this is a day for honor, pride, and gratitude, not mourning.

Let your flag fly high in tribute to every veteran who has served and protected our freedom.