I need to replace my flag...here are the top 10 things we need to know:

1. Fly the American flag higher than your other flags. We all like to show our pride for home states, sports teams, colleges and more, but the flag of the United States should always be at the center of any display and should be the highest point of a group.


2. If it's flying horizontally or at an angle, the "union" (the stars) should be at the peak of the flagstaff. Flying the flag with the union at the bottom symbolizes "dire distress."

3. If you're suspending it on a rope between buildings or houses, hoist the flag out, union first, from the building.

4. Don't lay the flag across a car in a parade or on a parade float (unless it's hoisted on a flagstaff). According to the U. S. Code, "When the flag is displayed on a motorcar, the staff shall be fixed firmly to the chassis or clamped to the right fender."

5. Bring your flag inside in inclement weather -- unless you have an all-weather flag.

6. Raise the flag at sunup (or later), and take it down at sunset, unless you have proper lighting to keep it illuminated during the night hours.

7. Don't let the flag touch the ground. It's a sign of disrespect. Similarly, don't use the flag to wrap, hold, or carry anything.

8. Don't substitute a flag for a table cloth; the flag is not to touch anything underneath it, nor should it be displayed horizontally. In addition, using the flag in any manner that might result in it getting dirty is a no. A flag on a small pole in the center of the table is acceptable, however, if you're looking for a patriotic decoration.

9. Flag pins should be worn on the left lapel, nearest the heart, as the flag is considered a living thing.

10. Flags that are tattered or torn should be replaced -- contact your local veterans organization or Boy or Girl Scouts to find a flag disposal service near you, or send it to the Flag Keepers.