The American flag is more than fabric—it’s a symbol of sacrifice, unity, and pride. With that honor comes responsibility: treating the flag with respect at all times. Whether you’re flying it outside your home, folding it after a ceremony, or retiring it at the end of its life, following proper etiquette ensures you uphold tradition and honor those who served.

In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials of U.S. flag etiquette: the correct way to fold, display, and retire the Stars and Stripes.