Why do you have to keep a light on the American flag?

Why do you have to keep a light on the American flag?

According to the US Flag Code, all American flags should be displayed from sunrise to sunset every day. Lowering the flag at night is an ultimate sign of respect for Old Glory. You can keep your flag flying 24-hours if it is properly illuminated during all hours of darkness.

Is it illegal to not have a light on the US flag?

The US Flag Code states that it is illegal to fly the US flag at night without adequate light. Each state using it as a foundation for its own specific flag codes regarding the handling and display of the American flag. So, if you wish to fly Old Glory after dark, you’ll have to light her up.

Do you need to have a light on a flag pole?

You need to illuminate both the flag and the pole, so one fixture must project light onto the pole as close to the ground as possible. This fixture should be within about 1 foot of the pole, or mounted on the pole itself.

What is the proper way to light the American flag?

You should position the light towards your American flag. When turned on, the light should beam directly at your American flag. It shouldn’t beam to the side of your American flag. If the light is off to the side, it won’t create a patriotic effect.

What are the rules for lighting the American flag at night?

The Flag Code states it is the universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on stationary flag staffs in the open. However, when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.

Are you supposed to take flag down in rain?

Should the American flag be taken down during a rain storm? The flag should not be displayed on days when the weather is inclement, except when an all-weather flag is displayed.

Can you put a spotlight on a flagpole?

You can also obtain spotlights that focus on the flag and illuminate very little of the surroundings so that you can spotlight the flag but also dimly show the landscaping around the flagpole. Well lights are commonly hidden by burying them in the ground.

Is it OK to put light on American flag?

While there are no guidelines on how a flag should be illuminated, the American Legion interprets it as light placed that specifically illuminates the flag or having area light bright enough to sufficiently illuminate the flag so that it is recognizable by the casual observer.

Can a flag be displayed in the dark?

Under the United States code, Article 4, Section 6, the American flag cannot be displayed during the hours of darkness unless it is illuminated with lighting.

When does the flag have to be properly illuminated?

The Flag Code states “The flag may be displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.” [I] What does the term “properly illuminated” mean? Upon further research, it is noted that the term “properly illuminated” has not been explained/defined in The Flag Code.