The American flag is the symbolic replica of the nation’s honor and public patriotism. While government buildings and offices display it as a sign of sovereignty, business owners are also permitted to set it up (except for advertising). According to surveys, Americans continue to express their pride in the flag despite the growing racial issues in the country.
The hospitality industry goes the extra mile when it comes to making the national flag visible at places where everyone can see it and feel the pride of being an American. People visiting from other countries also show respect to this symbolic representative of America. However, before displaying the national flag on your premises, you should be aware of the rules and etiquette to follow.
You cannot hoist the country’s symbol anywhere without second thoughts, even if you own a multimillion-dollar hotel sprawling over acres. Here are a few unspoken rules hotel owners should follow while displaying the American flag:
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Adhere to Proper Size and Proportions
Did you know that national flags have standard sizes and proportions? Anyone displaying the American national flag should adhere to the proper size and proportions as specified by the law. These specifications apply to all types of flags, whether displayed at homes, business locations, or government offices, indoors or outdoors.
According to Flags Unlimited, buying from a reputable supplier can keep you stress-free about adherence to the specifications. The length of the hoist should be nearly one-third to one-fourth of the pole height. It ensures a well-balanced and appealing display. In a group of flags, it should be at the highest level. For window displays, place it vertically or horizontally, keeping the Union on the viewer’s upper left.
Ensure Respectful Placement
Besides following the guidelines regarding the size and proportions, hotel owners should always display the flag with respect. The national flag symbolizes pride and patriotism, so it should be at a location where everyone can see it. Place it prominently to ensure it is easily visible, such as in a central courtyard or near the entrance.
Also, never let it touch the ground because it deserves all the respect you can give. Ensure it is well-lit for visibility after dark. Remove it during inclement weather as you don’t want winds, rain, or snow to damage the fabric. Alternatively, choose an all-weather material such as nylon to keep it safe from the elements.
Understand the Significance of Special Occasions
While you may display the American flag in your hotel on all days, some occasions have a special significance in this context. Here are a few instances:
- January 1 (New Year’s Day)
- January 20 (Inauguration Day)
- 3rd Monday of January (Birthday of Martin Luther King Jr.)
- February 12 (Lincoln’s Birthday)
- 3rd Monday of February (Washington’s Birthday)
- March 29 (National Vietnam War Veterans Day)
- Easter Sunday
- 2nd Sunday of May (Mother’s Day)
- 3rd Saturday of May (Armed Forces Day)
- Last Monday of May (Memorial Day)
- June 14 (Flag Day)
- 3rd Sunday in June (Father’s Day)
- July 4 (Independence Day)
- July 27 (National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day)
- 1st Monday of September (Labor Day)
- September 17 (Constitution Day)
- 2nd Monday in October (Columbus Day)
- October 27 (Navy Day)
- November 11 (Veterans Day)
- 4th Thursday of November (Thanksgiving Day)
- December 25 (Christmas Day)
Besides these occasions, you may also highlight the flag displays in your hotel on state holidays, the birthday of your state, or any other day proclaimed by the President.
Follow the Protocol
As a hotel owner looking to display the American flag, you should be as aware of the protocol as a government official. The first rule is to hoist briskly and lower ceremoniously. On some occasions, it should be flown at half-staff to show respect. These include a national tragedy or the death of an American leader.
Memorial Day, Patriot Day, National Firefighters Memorial Day, and Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day are some other occasions when you need to follow the half-staff protocol. The procedure of hoisting the flag to half-staff is to raise it first before lowering it to half-staff. The next step is to raise it again before lowering it for the day.
Wrapping Up
Besides following these guidelines for displaying the American flag in your hotel, you should ensure good maintenance to preserve its appearance and symbolism. A torn, tattered, or faded flag requires immediate replacement.
Pay attention to hardware maintenance as well. Also, follow the appropriate procedure for flag disposal because it deserves a respectful farewell. By following these best practices, you can show your respect and patriotism for the country.
