DEAR ABBY: I'm writing in the hope that you will print a gentle reminder in your column about displaying "Old Glory," our national flag.
As we approach Flag Day (June 14), I thought it might be a good time to remind people that it may be time to replace their worn or torn flags -- after all, the American flag is an important symbol and not just an ornament.
Children as well as adults should realize there are rules and customs associated with displaying the "red, white and blue." -- NASHUA, N.H., PATRIOT
DEAR PATRIOT: There are many do's and don'ts related to displaying the American flag, too many to include in one column. One well-known rule is that the flag should fly only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and stationary flagstaffs. It should not be displayed at night, unless it has been properly illuminated. The flag should be lowered in stormy weather, unless an all-weather flag is being used.
When it has become tattered, torn or faded, the accepted method of flag disposal is to burn it. Those who are uncomfortable or unable to dispose of the flag in this manner should contact their nearest American Legion post. Most posts have an annual ceremony to honorably dispose of old or worn flags.
Readers who want to learn more about the complete flag code should visit the American Legion Web site at www.legion.org/flagcode.htm.