The flag of the United States is generally flown throughout the year. But there are also special flag flying days which commemorate important people or events in our history. There are certain rules for flying the US flag, known as United States Flag Code. Some key things to keep in mind while flying the US flag are that while flying over US soil, the US flag should always be at or above the level of any other flag. If a US flag is hanging on a wall, then the blue star field must always at the top. Flying the flag with the star field on bottom, or upside down is considered a sign of distress.
Special flag flying days coming up in May include:
May 1st- Loyalty Day / Law Day
Loyalty Day is celebrated to commemorate the freedom and liberty that people of the United States experience as a result of sacrifice given by the Patriots during the American Revolution. On this day, American people reaffirm their loyalty to their country and celebrate the heritage of American freedom. May 1stis a celebration of Law Day, which commemorates our system of justice and the role it played in the foundation of the United States.
2ndSunday in May – Mother’s Day
Celebrated on the second Sunday in May, Mother's Day celebrates the spirit of motherhood in the United States. It appreciates how mothers play an important role in shaping our society. Celebrating Mother's day as a flag flying day demonstrates the important role that they have played in history and the sacrifices they have given to shape our society as we see it today.
May 15th -Peace Officers Memorial Day
Peace Officers Memorial Day is observed to recognize local, state and federal peace officers who have laid down their lives or have been disabled during the call of duty. They are the people who risk their lives every day to maintain the peace and freedom of the people of United States. Many organizations and relatives of peace officers will lower their flags on this day in remembrance of the peace officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.
3rdSaturday in May - Armed Forces Day
This day is celebrated to honor men and women who serve in the United States armed forces protecting our borders on land, air and at sea. Many events are held on this day to honor those who serve in the United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard.
May 22nd- National Maritime Day
National Maritime Day is observed to celebrate the maritime industry in the United States and the role that it has played in the country’s progress. It recognizes the ships and sailors who have always held a special place in the US history. The first celebration of the day was when American Steamship ‘Savannah' became the first vessel to successfully cross the Atlantic Ocean reaching England from the United States.
Last Monday in May - Memorial Day
Americans observe this day in honor of men and women who laid down their lives while serving in the United States Military. The United States flag is flown at half mast on Memorial Day also known as Decoration Day. People often visit cemeteries and honor the brave soldiers of war who laid down their lives while protecting the country.
Conclusion
The history of United States is full of events and traditions that make us the proud nation we are today. Every month we should celebrate the heroes of our country by flying the flag high and celebrating the spirit of American freedom reaffirming our loyalty to the United States of America.
