Refreshing Your Knowledge on Patriotic Etiquette for the USA's 250th Anniversary
- Jodee Schrlau
- 7 hours ago
- 4 min read
“While we are zealously performing the duties of good citizens and soldiers, we certainly ought not to be inattentive to the higher duties of religion. To the distinguished character of Patriot, it should be our highest glory to add the more distinguished character of Christian.” –George Washington
There was a time when every school day began with the Pledge of Allegiance. Children would stand beside their desks, place their hands over their hearts, and recite it proudly. One of the first songs they learned was "The Star-Spangled Banner," and respecting the flag and what it represents was taught early on.
As we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States, I believe it is important to review this knowledge. While many of us learned these customs in grade school, I know that younger generations may not have been taught them. Therefore, I have compiled a guide on the proper etiquette for playing the National Anthem, viewing the U.S. Flag, and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. I find it helpful to revisit this information from time to time, and I hope you do too.
On June 22, 1942, Congress passed a joint resolution, later amended on December 22, 1942, that encompassed what has come to be known as the U.S. Flag Code. It contains important guidelines on how citizens should behave around the Stars and Stripes. You can find more information about the Flag Code and etiquette at USFlag.org. There are also guidelines for conduct during the National Anthem, as outlined in US Federal Statute (36 U.S. Code § 301 – National Anthem).
National Anthem Etiquette:
When our National Anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner, is played, we stand at attention in respect for those who fought and can no longer stand.
(36 U.S. Code § 301 – National anthem)
The composition consisting of the words and music known as the Star-Spangled Banner is the national anthem of the United States of America.
Conduct During Playing.—During a rendition of the national anthem—
1) When the flag is displayed—
Individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note.
Members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute in the manner provided for individuals in uniform; and
All other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, and men not in uniform, if applicable, should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart;
2) When the flag is not displayed
All present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed.
Other etiquette:
Don’t talk during the anthem.
Remove your sunglasses.
Don’t eat or drink during the song. If you’re chewing gum, stop until the anthem has ended. Have nothing in your hands (except a hat); put all electronic devices away, including your phone.
Since it’s our nation’s song, we should sing along, but it is not required. If you do sing, sing at a moderate volume.
Something I didn't know, after the song is completed, it’s not proper to applaud. Applauding goes against the code. Our National Anthem is a hymn, and we usually don’t applaud after hymns.
U.S. Flag Etiquette:
Whenever you are at an event, and the flag comes into view, please stand up. Observe all the protocols for listening to the National Anthem as mentioned earlier. Remain standing until the flag has passed by you and your family or group.
When the flag is part of a procession, or when it is being raised or lowered, everyone should face the flag and salute.
To salute, everyone should stand at attention. Individuals in uniform should give the appropriate formal salute. Citizens not in uniform should salute by placing their right hand over their heart. Men who are wearing head coverings should remove them and hold them at their left shoulder, with their hand over their heart.
For more information on Flag etiquette, visit USFlag.org.
Pledge of Allegiance Etiquette:
When pledging allegiance to the flag, follow the manners of participating in the National Anthem listed above.
Say the Pledge out loud with the rest of those gathered.
The Pledge of Allegiance should be rendered by standing at attention, facing the flag.
Place your right hand over your heart. Placing a hand over the heart during the Pledge of Allegiance is a gesture of respect, honesty, and genuine intent. It signifies that one is not bearing arms and is making an honorable commitment.
The etiquette for the National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance, and the U.S. flag embodies our deep respect for our nation: stand at attention, remove your hats, and place your hand over your heart. We are truly blessed by God to call this country home. By honoring these guidelines, we not only show our respect but also celebrate the privilege of being citizens of this great nation.
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