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Flag etiquette should be followed during national anthem

Flag etiquette should be followed during national anthem

Date published: 7/15/2004

The recent article ["A Grand Old Flag," July 4] provided readers with some good information concerning the proper display of the American flag.

Citizens should also be aware of proper flag etiquette during the playing of the national anthem. Flag etiquette is contained in the little-known Federal Flag Code; it is easily accessed on a computer. The following has been taken from Public Law 94-344, Sec. 6:

"During rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed, all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. Men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should render the military salute at the first note of the anthem and retain this position until the last note. When the flag is not displayed, those present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed there."

In the future, hopefully all Fredericksburg-area residents will properly display our nation's symbol, and show proper respect as spectators and participants at local gatherings such as sporting events, graduations, etc., when the national anthem is played.

Joe Fillare

Spotsylvania

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Date published: 7/15/2004