How to treat the flag with respect

by Elizabeth Stawicki, Minnesota Public Radio

How to care for an American flag, from officials at the Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

*Fly the flag only during daylight hours. It should not be flown at night unless it is illuminated with a spotlight.

*Never fly a flag in inclement weather, such as rain or snow.

*Never fly a tattered flag.

*Do not wash cotton flags, because the colors will bleed.

*Once a flag becomes worn, it should be disposed of properly. Old flags can be brought to any veterans cemetery, where staff members will dispose of it according to respectful protocols.