American flag etiquette symbolic to veterans

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BRISTOL, Tenn. -

The 4th of July inspires many of us to display or fly the American flag.

Veterans tell us there"s a proper way to do it.

They say properly caring for and flying the flag is important to show pride, honor and respect.

"The first fold of our flag is the symbol of life," said Michael Harman, Commander of the 39th chapter of Disabled American Veterans.

Marine veteran David Mabe truly loves the American flag.

"The American flag is very near and dear to my heart. It represents our country and nation all the way back to our founding fathers. That"s our history, that"s where we came from," said Mabe.

That"s why they says it"s important to handle and fly a flag with care.

"If you"re looking at your home, the flag should be on the observers left. If you"re hanging a flag like flat against a wall, the union, which is the blue over here... If you"re looking at it the union will always be on the left," said Harman.

To properly fold the flag, you must fold it 13 times into a triangle.

"Every fold of the flag signifies something different. All the way til 13," said Harman, "The 6th fold"s significance is for where our hearts lie. It"s with our hearts that we pledge allegiance to the United States of America."

There"s a respectful way to dispose of worn out flags too.

"The proper way for disposal of a flag is anyway that"s dignified. The most common way to do it is by burning," said Harman.

Veterans say doing it the right way is a sign of utmost respect.

"We just love our country and we want the best for it. And when people will respect the flags, they respect each other," said Henry Chisenall, a retired Marine veteran.

The blue part of the flag represents a union of all the states as one.

Flags displayed at night should be illuminated.

If displaying the American flag with other flags, it should be raised the highest.

You can find the full list of how to display flags below.

http://home.riverview.net/vfw_post2053/displayflag.htm

Source: http://www.wcyb.com/news/american-flag-etiquette-symbolic-to-veterans/40355758