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Old Glory etiquette refresher Proper flag care displays respect By JONEL ALECCIA Photo by Ray Pettengell Proper care of the nation's symbol includes flying the flag with the "point of honor" -- the starry blue field -- to the observer's left. Back when Bill McMahon was a Boy Scout some 60 years ago, folks knew the right way to display the Stars and Stripes. But now, even the Fourth of July isn't enough to inspire proper etiquette among supposed patriots, the Medford man says. Everywhere he goes, he sees evidence of ignorance of correct care for the nation's symbol. "People stick a flag pole out in front of their house or their business and that sucker stays out there, day and night, rain or shine, and that's not right, in my opinion," says McMahon, 71. "It just bothers me. If you're going to fly the flag, fly it right." Knowing what's right isn't as easy as it sounds in a nation where care of the flag is a political hot potato even now. Just last week, the U.S. House of Representatives voted in favor of a congressional bill amending the Constitution to ban desecration of the flag. The matter now moves to the Senate, where defeat is considered likely, even if the vote is close. For the proletariats, there's a more pressing matter at hand, especially in the week preceding the 223rd anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. What this nation needs is a primer in flag care, a reminder of proper respect for Old Glory, insists McMahon. Carolyn Weber agrees. She's the manager of the shop run by the local Boy Scouts of America chapter. Among Scouts, proper flag etiquette is a priority. "They take flag display and use very seriously," Weber says. For those who need a refresher course in flag care, a few guidelines follow, courtesy of the U.S. Flag Code: The U.S. flag takes precedence in size and prominence over all other flags when flown in the United States. The U.S. flag should always be displayed with the point of honor -- the starry blue field -- to the observer's left. The U.S. flag should be flown from sunrise to sundown only, unless there is adequate illumination -- ideally a spotlight -- at night. No flag should be flown during weather that might damage it, including rain and wind. The flag should never be used as a banner, bunting or covering, except when displayed on caskets at certain funerals. The flag should not be used as part of a costume or athletic uniform, nor should it be embroidered on cushions or handkerchiefs. When a flag is tattered or torn, it should be repaired. If it cannot be repaired, it should be disposed of in a dignified way, either burning or sealing in a bag or box before being sent for trash collection. Civilian bystanders should salute the flag by putting hand over heart when the flag is raised, lowered or carried by on parade. A salute is also proper when the national anthem is played if the flag is present. Mail Tribune Copyright � The Mail Tribune 1999, Medford, Oregon USA