What does the black American flag mean without the blue stripe?
The “Thin Blue Line” American flag represents law enforcement and is flown to show support for the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to protect us. In both versions, the black space above the blue line represents society, order and peace, while the black below, crime, anarchy, and chaos.
What does upside down American flag mean?
Displaying a U.S. flag upside down is “a signal of dire distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property”.
What does a backwards American flag mean?
Since the Stars and Stripes are mounted with the canton closest to the pole, that section of the flag stayed to the right, while the stripes flew to the left. Therefore, the flag is worn on the right shoulder, and wearing it backward gives the effect of the flag flying in the breeze as the wearer moves forward.
What does a backwards black and white American flag mean?
The reverse flag dates back to the Army’s early history when both cavalry and infantry units would charge ahead as the Stars and Stripes streamed backwards. Today, the reverse flag is worn on the right sleeve of military uniforms and symbolizes the courage and respect of those who serve.
Can you fly a flag that has been on a casket?
May a person, other than a veteran, have his or her casket draped with the flag of the United States? Yes. Although this honor is usually reserved for veterans or highly regarded state and national figures, the Flag Code does not prohibit this use.
Why is a flag folded 13 times?
This is what the 13 folds mean: The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life. The second fold signifies our belief in eternal life. The third fold is made in honor and tribute of the veteran departing our ranks, and who gave a portion of his or her life for the defense of our country to attain peace.
Why is the flag folded in a triangle?
In the U.S. Armed Forces, at the ceremony of retreat, the flag is lowered, folded in a triangle and kept under watch throughout the night as a tribute to our nation’s honored dead.
Why can’t red show on a folded flag?
After Taps has been played, the flag is carefully folded into the symbolic tri-cornered shape. The folded flag is emblematic of the tri-cornered hat worn by the Patriots of the American Revolution. When folded, no red or white stripe is to be evident, leaving only the blue field with stars.
Who gets the folded flag at a military funeral?
Who Is Eligible to Receive the Burial Flag? Generally, the flag is given to the next-of-kin, as a keepsake, after its use during the funeral service. When there is no next-of-kin, VA will furnish the flag to a friend making request for it.
What do they say when presenting a flag at a military funeral?
“On behalf of the President of the United States, (the United States Army; the United States Marine Corps; the United States Navy; the United States Air Force or the United States Coast Guard), and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one’s honorable and faithful …
Who gets the military funeral flag?
At the funeral, the flag is presented to the deceased’s next of kin. The next of kin is the person who is most closely related to the veteran. After receiving the flag, it is tradition among the family members to preserve for display in the house, usually in a frame.
Why is there a 21 gun salute at a military funeral?
The tradition of rendering a salute by cannon originated in the 14th century as firearms and cannons came into use. Land batteries, having a greater supply of gunpowder, were able to fire three guns for every shot fired afloat, hence the salute by shore batteries was 21 guns.
Do you tip the honor guard at a funeral?
Gratuity for pallbearers To be chosen as a pallbearer at a funeral is a sign of honor and respect. Typically this role is reserved for the decedent’s closest friends and family members. If that is the case, no tip or payment is required.