Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Flag Etiquette - Conduct During the National Anthem

A few months ago I promised that I would go over the rules associated with the National Anthem on our blog. Well, better late than never.

During a rendition of the national anthem, when the flag is displayed, all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart; men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold the headdress at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart; and individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note.

When the flag is not displayed, all present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed.

Pretty self explanatory, but believe it or not, there are people out there who don't know the proper way to act during the National Anthem. I'd actually like to believe that these people are just ignorant rather than purposely choosing to refrain from showing respect. But this is America.... land of the free.

Portions reprinted from the CRS Report for Congress, The United States Flag: Federal Law Relating to Display and Associated Questions, Updated July 5, 2007

Friday, September 11, 2009

September 11th - Patriot Day

It has been a long time since we have posted anything on our blog. What a long and busy summer. However, if today isn't a day worthy of a post, then no day is worthy.

On this day eight years ago, our world, our country and our lives changed forever. Over 3,000 innocent men, women and children were killed in a senseless and barbaric attack on our freedoms and way of life. This country rose to the occasion and has fought valiantly. The men and women in our military, as well as our first responders, continue to fight valiantly on the front lines abroad and at home.

Yet many in America have forgotten about this day. Not that the attacks occurred, but what we felt after the attacks - a sense of unity, purpose, resolve and love for this country. We are no longer united, we (mostly our politicians) have forgotten the purpose and have lost our resolve to fight what we all knew was going to be a long and sacrificial fight.

Today, we at Shining Star Flags & Bandanas honor all of those killed in the 9/11 attacks, their families and our military personnel and first responders who risk their lives everyday to keep Americans safe. We remember, we will not forget....