Letter: Fly the flag with proper etiquette

The United States flag is to be flown at half-staff for the death of heads of state and as ordered by the president. This is called an executive order.

As a soldier, it has been my privilege and honor to carry the flag (and Bible) with me during my “visits” to Albania, Poland, Iraq, Kuwait and a few others. As a Boy Scout leader, it has been a privilege and honor to teach young men the awesome responsibility of caring for this national symbol.

I cannot describe the pride felt when I see our U.S. flag flown freely in my hometown, and around the world. This symbol of freedom, commitment, dedication, and sacrifice is recognized by all. It is revered by our friends, allies and feared by our enemies.

When our flag was flying at half staff on Friday, 9 May, at the Orland municipal building, it caught my attention. For it looked particularly odd when the U.S. post office, just 40 feet away, was flying the flag full staff.

After inquisition, I discovered it had been suggested to the city to lower our nation’s flag to honor a local (and great) law enforcement officer.

It is always a tragedy to loss those who are selflessly serve others. This may be an occasion when the city flag is flown at half staff as ordered by the mayor to honor an individual who gave so much to his community.

The United States Code Title 36 Chapter 10 provides the responsibility and authority for use of our flag. A great and readily available resource for flag etiquette is “usflag.org”.

Robert Macy
Laurinburg, N.C.