Flying the american flag correctly and proud

[NavyCO]

Every so called patriotic villager should read the Code of Federal Regulations (passed by Congress) on how the Flag is to be handled, stored, cared for and most importantly "displayed" as it our source of pride. There are some in The Villages, that neither respect the Flag, nor care about it one put up on pole in their yards. I start off this forum discussion by posting of a FLAG not only improperly display in Hadley, but in such disrepair, it is a disgrace. This so called American is seems more proud of his Heritage than being an American. I suggest all of you that carry a CAMERA to get out and take a picture and post it here, but to also go up to the door of such people and tell them how they are disrespecting the flag, and our country.--a proud Navy VET. The homeowner featured hear considers himself to be a "South African" because under law--of this great land--you CANNOT fly the flag of another nation directly beneath the American Flag. It MUST be on another entirely different pole!

[BobnBev]

good job there Navy!!!!!!

[buggyone]

Every so called patriotic villager should read the Code of Federal Regulations (passed by Congress) on how the Flag is to be handled, stored, cared for and most importantly "displayed" as it our source of pride. There are some in The Villages, that neither respect the Flag, nor care about it one put up on pole in their yards. I start off this forum discussion by posting of a FLAG not only improperly display in Hadley, but in such disrepair, it is a disgrace. This so called American is seems more proud of his Heritage than being an American. I suggest all of you that carry a CAMERA to get out and take a picture and post it here, but to also go up to the door of such people and tell them how they are disrespecting the flag, and our country.--a proud Navy VET. The homeowner featured hear considers himself to be a "South African" because under law--of this great land--you CANNOT fly the flag of another nation directly beneath the American Flag. It MUST be on another entirely different pole!

Exactly what did the homeowner say to you when you told him of his error? :cus:

[dmerz2]

Every so called patriotic villager should read the Code of Federal Regulations (passed by Congress) on how the Flag is to be handled, stored, cared for and most importantly "displayed" as it our source of pride. There are some in The Villages, that neither respect the Flag, nor care about it one put up on pole in their yards. I start off this forum discussion by posting of a FLAG not only improperly display in Hadley, but in such disrepair, it is a disgrace. This so called American is seems more proud of his Heritage than being an American. I suggest all of you that carry a CAMERA to get out and take a picture and post it here, but to also go up to the door of such people and tell them how they are disrespecting the flag, and our country.--a proud Navy VET. The homeowner featured hear considers himself to be a "South African" because under law--of this great land--you CANNOT fly the flag of another nation directly beneath the American Flag. It MUST be on another entirely different pole!

Thank you Navy - from a USAF Viet Nam DAV. Unfortunately we see a lot of improper displays. DBM

[Pepperhead]

good job there Navy!!!!!!


Thirty-four years USAF here. I would have spoken to the occupant of the house and offered to help them set up their display properly vs calling them out on the internet.

[Bosoxfan]

Flag Code (http://www.ushistory.org/betsy/flagcode.htm)

This is a link that explains proper etiquette with the American flag. Nowhere do I see that another flag cannot be flown on the same pole.I have the Massachusetts state flag on my pole below the American flag. I try to follow all the rules when it comes to displaying our flag . I illuminate it at night, take it down in inclement weather ,and make sure that when it becomes tattered it is replaced. I take my old flags to an American legion or a V.F.W to be disposed of properly. I NEVER allow any flag I'm handling to touch the ground. This is a pet peeve of mine. There are too many flags on sticks around the Villages that are displayed around patriotic holidays that are allowed to touch the ground!!

[ajbrown]

Flag Code (http://www.ushistory.org/betsy/flagcode.htm)


This is a link that explains proper etiquette with the American flag. Nowhere do I see that another flag cannot be flown on the same pole.I have the Massachusetts state flag on my pole below the American flag.

stuff cut by Alan!

Check out 7 G from your link.

Added later: When I use the acronym OP here it is for original post. I have no issue with the original poster .....


That said , I really do not like the OP of this thread. Intent means so much to a subject like this IMO. That flag is borderline tattered. A flag is considered tattered when it no longer fits to serve as a symbol of the US. This does not meet that for me. For all I know that person is a HUGE patriot, flying a flag from when his son died for this country for as long as it is acceptable. How would I know?

The fact that someone flies another countries flag under the USA flag does not mean that person is not a patriot. They may simply have made a mistake. In fact, if I understand it, it disrespects the other country more that the US. It should not be done in a time of peace.

The OP makes assertions in about this person (I do not know this person) to open this thread that are not substantiated IMO, and to put the person’s address in the post is wrong without understanding the facts.

Just my opinion.

Do not take this post as I condone any disrespect to the US flag in any way.

[Villager Joyce]

Please judge me for what is in my heart, not that I have "flags on sticks" in my flower beds. I am an American. I love my country.

[dbussone]

Flag Code (http://www.ushistory.org/betsy/flagcode.htm)



This is a link that explains proper etiquette with the American flag. Nowhere do I see that another flag cannot be flown on the same pole.I have the Massachusetts state flag on my pole below the American flag. I try to follow all the rules when it comes to displaying our flag . I illuminate it at night, take it down in inclement weather ,and make sure that when it becomes tattered it is replaced. I take my old flags to an American legion or a V.F.W to be disposed of properly. I NEVER allow any flag I'm handling to touch the ground. This is a pet peeve of mine. There are too many flags on sticks around the Villages that are displayed around patriotic holidays that are allowed to touch the ground!!


Thank you for noting some of the ways in which a flag should be (or not) flown. I am a member of the Sons of the American Revolution. We try to recognize those who fly the flag properly.

If any Villager believes they know someone who flies the colors properly, please provide me the individual's address. I will monitor the flag and recommend a certificate for those doing so properly.

God bless our veterans and service members this Memorial Day weekend

[Carl in Tampa]

I tend to agree with ajbrown about the inappropriateness of posting the address where the flags are being flown contrary to the Flag Code. It smacks of Vigilantism.

I also doubt if many people in The Villages were aware of the rule regarding flying the flags of two nations on one flagpole. It could be that the violator, seeing flagpoles flying the U.S. flag with state flags, military service flags and P.O.W. flags had no idea that he was violating the Flag Code.

As a practical matter I doubt that HOA rules would permit the installation of two flagpoles in the homeowner's yard.

My personal preference is for no other flag to be flown from the same halyard as the U.S. Flag.

How many readers of this post have ever complained to a university or NFL football team about the unfurling of a giant USA flag over the field during half-time exercises? It is a violation of the Flag Code to carry a US flag flat or horizontally. (8 c.)

How many vets reading this post are aware of a change in the law that now authorizes serving military not in uniform and all veterans to render the military hand salute during the passing, raising or lowering of the US flag and the playing of the National Anthem?

To help put this in perspective, I was in a foreign country several years ago when preparations were being made for a Forth of July celebration in the American Embassy. Workers were about to hang a flag vertically against a wall and they asked the Ambassador where the blue field should be located. He got it wrong!

.

[Carl in Tampa]

Thank you for noting some of the ways in which a flag should be (or not) flown. I am a member of the Sons of the American Revolution. We try to recognize those who fly the flag properly.

If any Villager believes they know someone who flies the colors properly, please provide me the individual's address. I will monitor the flag and recommend a certificate for those doing so properly.

God bless our veterans and service members this Memorial Day weekend

I joined the Sons of the American Revolution many decades ago through the Louisiana Chapter in New Orleans. They were not very active and I had little contact with them.

Is there an active local chapter in this area?

Carl

[dbussone]

I joined the Sons of the American Revolution many decades ago through the Louisiana Chapter in New Orleans. They were not very active and I had little contact with them.



Is there an active local chapter in this area?



Carl


Yes. It is called the Lake Sumter chapter and meets at the John Pella American Legion post in Fruitland Park on the first Saturday of the month at 11:00 AM. I am the treasurer and we would be honored to have you join us

On the web, search for the Lake Sumter Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Check out 7 G from your link.

Added later: When I use the acronym OP here it is for original post. I have no issue with the original poster .....


That said , I really do not like the OP of this thread. Intent means so much to a subject like this IMO. That flag is borderline tattered. A flag is considered tattered when it no longer fits to serve as a symbol of the US. This does not meet that for me. For all I know that person is a HUGE patriot, flying a flag from when his son died for this country for as long as it is acceptable. How would I know?

The fact that someone flies another countries flag under the USA flag does not mean that person is not a patriot. They may simply have made a mistake. In fact, if I understand it, it disrespects the other country more that the US. It should not be done in a time of peace.

The OP makes assertions in about this person (I do not know this person) to open this thread that are not substantiated IMO, and to put the person’s address in the post is wrong without understanding the facts.

Just my opinion.

Do not take this post as I condone any disrespect to the US flag in any way.

Yea, this is about how I feel about it. Not only that, but there are hundreds of people who don't fly the flag at all and we're picking on someone who doesn't do it exactly as specified. The fact that he makes an effort to fly it says to me that he loves his country.

[bimmertl]

Yea, this is about how I feel about it. Not only that, but there are hundreds of people who don't fly the flag at all and we're picking on someone who doesn't do it exactly as specified. The fact that he makes an effort to fly it says to me that he loves his country.

Great point. A person flies the flag, and it's not up to "code" and the critics weigh in. Get over it!

No doubt it's not hundreds, but thousands, who don't fly a flag, so what.

What's next, caps and hats in doors. It's not 1950 any more folks!

[Indydealmaker]

I am sure that many people do not know that the Code of Federal Regulations relative to the handling and display of the U.S. Flag is not a law. It is merely a recommendation.

I feel that Congress should make a law that can be enforced relative to the more egregious intentional violations ie., hanging flag upside down; hanging another flag above ours; deliberate destruction, etc.

[Carl in Tampa]

I am sure that many people do not know that the Code of Federal Regulations relative to the handling and display of the U.S. Flag is not a law. It is merely a recommendation.

I feel that Congress should make a law that can be enforced relative to the more egregious intentional violations ie., hanging flag upside down; hanging another flag above ours; deliberate destruction, etc.

Here is another misconception. The Flag Code does provide for hanging the flag upside down. 8 a. says, "The flag should never be displayed with the union down, except as a signal of dire distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property."

And, of course the Supreme Court has ruled that protesters can burn the flag as an expression of free speech.

Also, the Flag Code (United States Code, Title 4, Chapter 1) is part of the United States Code, and as such is a law.

Title 4 of the Code of Federal Regulations is the principal set of rules and regulations issued by federal agencies of the United States regarding accounts.


.

[jrandall]

Thirty-four years USAF here. I would have spoken to the occupant of the house and offered to help them set up their display properly vs calling them out on the internet.

Nice thing to do. Thanks. 😊

[buggyone]

Every so called patriotic villager should read the Code of Federal Regulations (passed by Congress) on how the Flag is to be handled, stored, cared for and most importantly "displayed" as it our source of pride. There are some in The Villages, that neither respect the Flag, nor care about it one put up on pole in their yards. I start off this forum discussion by posting of a FLAG not only improperly display at 362 Rhapsody Path, in Hadley, but in such disrepair, it is a disgrace. This so called American is seems more proud of his Heritage than being an American. I suggest all of you that carry a CAMERA to get out and take a picture and post it here, but to also go up to the door of such people and tell them how they are disrespecting the flag, and our country.--a proud Navy VET. The homeowner featured hear considers himself to be a "South African" because under law--of this great land--you CANNOT fly the flag of another nation directly beneath the American Flag. It MUST be on another entirely different pole!

Ridiculous post.

[Indydealmaker]

Here is another misconception. The Flag Code does provide for hanging the flag upside down. 8 a. says, "The flag should never be displayed with the union down, except as a signal of dire distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property."

And, of course the Supreme Court has ruled that protesters can burn the flag as an expression of free speech.

Also, the Flag Code (United States Code, Title 4, Chapter 1) is part of the United States Code, and as such is a law.

Title 4 of the Code of Federal Regulations is the principal set of rules and regulations issued by federal agencies of the United States regarding accounts.


.

This is why I said that the code is not a law. There is no way to enforce it. If a "law" is unenforceable, it is a moot point.

The United States Flag Code establishes advisory rules for display and care of the flag of the United States. It is Chapter 1 of Title 4 of the United States Code (4 U.S.C. § 1 et seq). This is a U.S. federal law, but there is no penalty for failure to comply with it and the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that punitive enforcement would conflict with the First Amendment right to freedom of speech.[1]

[Indydealmaker]

Ridiculous post.

Some opinions are better left non-regurgitated. I thought we all agreed that "rude" is outlawed on TOTV.

[Taltarzac725]

I suppose I might be upset with a former Lt. in the Navy who did not show respect for the American flag but I would want to know why. I doubt if many people pay much attention to handling the flags unless they were in the military or had some function where they needed to follow strict procedures. I would sometimes take down the American flag at the East Lake Community Library in Palm Harbor but I always had a library employee along with me to see that I as a volunteer did it properly.

[Taltarzac725]

Please judge me for what is in my heart, not that I have "flags on sticks" in my flower beds. I am an American. I love my country.

I like that sentiment.

[dbussone]

I joined the Sons of the American Revolution many decades ago through the Louisiana Chapter in New Orleans. They were not very active and I had little contact with them.



Is there an active local chapter in this area?



Carl


Carl - I have to correct an error. The Post is named after John Gella, not Pella. We meet generally on the first Saturday of each month (October - June) at 11:00.

[dbussone]

Please judge me for what is in my heart, not that I have "flags on sticks" in my flower beds. I am an American. I love my country.


You must have a beautiful heart. Just imagine the beauty of millions of "stick" flags flying in cemeteries this weekend to honor those fallen heroes.

[gomoho]

You must have a beautiful heart. Just imagine the beauty of millions of "stick" flags flying in cemeteries this weekend to honor those fallen heroes.

God Bless America and her fallen soldiers.

[Topspinmo]

I go to college sporting events on occasions. I amazed how many students/players don't know what to do while the National Anthem being played. I can understand foreign students (well Not really they are in our country they should know the customs). I can spot the well disciplined Kids, they know to stand still with his hat removed placed over his heart with this right hand, other hand relaxed by his side and face the flag. I see some with their hands crossed talking moving around in conversation waiting for the moment to get over.

My question to Colleges are and especially the Coaches? Did they explain the fundamental rules to respect the flag of country there in to foreign students and players ? If not? should be! even though they are not from our country they should at least honor out traditions/customs. As for the home town boys NO EXCUSS IMO (how do I know this? I read the roster and know who is American or Foreign student) . Look around next time you go to sporting event (with your eyes not head turning) see what little respect paid.

[Carl in Tampa]

This is why I said that the code is not a law. There is no way to enforce it. If a "law" is unenforceable, it is a moot point.

The United States Flag Code establishes advisory rules for display and care of the flag of the United States. It is Chapter 1 of Title 4 of the United States Code (4 U.S.C. § 1 et seq). This is a U.S. federal law, but there is no penalty for failure to comply with it and the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that punitive enforcement would conflict with the First Amendment right to freedom of speech.[1]

I do not continue this discussion simply to be argumentative, but because I am very literal-minded and I hate to see misinformation conveyed in a discussion in which I am involved.

1. You have changed your position. Originally you stated the Flag Code was not a law, but was contained in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). I have previously shown that position was incorrect.

2. Now you quote a source that clearly states that the Flag Code is a law and then you go on to maintain that "if it is unenforceable it is a moot point."

This requires a two-pronged response:

a. If a bill is passed by the House and the Senate and signed by the President, it is by definition a law. Hundreds of laws are passed every year that have no penalty provision. They are, nonetheless, laws.

b. The Supreme Court did not strike down The Flag Code, Title 4, Chapter 1 of the United States Code, but rather Title 18, Chapter 33, Section 700 of the United States Code. That is the law that provides for a penalty for Desecration of the Flag. That is the law that was declared unconstitutional.

3. Accordingly, The Flag Code still stands as a law which, like many other laws, provides guidance without penalty for not following the law.

An example of a law which provides guidance without penalty is the Law Enforcement Officer's Safety act of 2004, Public Law 108-277, which authorizes me, without need of a license, to carry a concealed weapon in every state of the United States "Notwithstanding any other provision of the law of any State or any political subdivision thereof."

I could provide many other examples of laws with no penalty provision.


.

[BobnBev]

I do not continue this discussion simply to be argumentative, but because I am very literal-minded and I hate to see misinformation conveyed in a discussion in which I am involved.

1. You have changed your position. Originally you stated the Flag Code was not a law, but was contained in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). I have previously shown that position was incorrect.

2. Now you quote a source that clearly states that the Flag Code is a law and then you go on to maintain that "if it is unenforceable it is a moot point."

This requires a two-pronged response:

a. If a bill is passed by the House and the Senate and signed by the President, it is by definition a law. Hundreds of laws are passed every year that have no penalty provision. They are, nonetheless, laws.

b. The Supreme Court did not strike down The Flag Code, Title 4, Chapter 1 of the United States Code, but rather Title 18, Chapter 33, Section 700 of the United States Code. That is the law that provides for a penalty for Desecration of the Flag. That is the law that was declared unconstitutional.

3. Accordingly, The Flag Code still stands as a law which, like many other laws, provides guidance without penalty for not following the law.

An example of a law which provides guidance without penalty is the Law Enforcement Officer's Safety act of 2004, Public Law 108-277, which authorizes me, without need of a license, to carry a concealed weapon in every state of the United States "Notwithstanding any other provision of the law of any State or any political subdivision thereof."

I could provide many other examples of laws with no penalty provision.


.

Carl, I too, fall under the provisions of the LEOSA, but they make you jump
thru too many hoops. It's easier to just use my FL CCW in the states that
I travel thru.

[Carl in Tampa]

Carl, I too, fall under the provisions of the LEOSA, but they make you jump
thru too many hoops. It's easier to just use my FL CCW in the states that
I travel thru.

Too many hoops?

1. Carry photo ID that shows you are a qualified retired LEO.
2. Qualify with your firearm once a year.
3. Carry the range qualification certification with you.

Having done these things your only limitations have to do with pretty much the same exclusions that are included in your FL CCW license, and you are legal in states that don't recognize the FL CCW, like California, New York and the District of Columbia.

However, like you, I also have a FL CCW license. I got one right after they passed the enabling law.

Florida has reciprocity agreements with over 30 states regarding recognition of our CCW licenses.

:police:

[kb8tpw]

I differ with the comments about the tattered flag. I took one to the American Legion last week for destruction that was in better shape than this one. My current "concern" is for the folks that put the little flags out that drag on the ground. I made some 1x1 sticks to raise mine, painted them red white and blue and they look much better.

[Indydealmaker]

I do not continue this discussion simply to be argumentative, but because I am very literal-minded and I hate to see misinformation conveyed in a discussion in which I am involved.

1. You have changed your position. Originally you stated the Flag Code was not a law, but was contained in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). I have previously shown that position was incorrect.

2. Now you quote a source that clearly states that the Flag Code is a law and then you go on to maintain that "if it is unenforceable it is a moot point."

This requires a two-pronged response:

a. If a bill is passed by the House and the Senate and signed by the President, it is by definition a law. Hundreds of laws are passed every year that have no penalty provision. They are, nonetheless, laws.

b. The Supreme Court did not strike down The Flag Code, Title 4, Chapter 1 of the United States Code, but rather Title 18, Chapter 33, Section 700 of the United States Code. That is the law that provides for a penalty for Desecration of the Flag. That is the law that was declared unconstitutional.

3. Accordingly, The Flag Code still stands as a law which, like many other laws, provides guidance without penalty for not following the law.

An example of a law which provides guidance without penalty is the Law Enforcement Officer's Safety act of 2004, Public Law 108-277, which authorizes me, without need of a license, to carry a concealed weapon in every state of the United States "Notwithstanding any other provision of the law of any State or any political subdivision thereof."

I could provide many other examples of laws with no penalty provision.


.
Carl,
When I change my position on something, I admit I am wrong. I apparently did not clearly state my position. When I said it is not a law. You are right. I was not being literal. However, IMO, my point was that a law with no enforcement is for all practical purposes not a law. It is nothing more than a suggestion. That suggestion is normally sufficient for reasonable, law-abiding citizens. However, for those that would ignore the "suggestion" because there is no penalty, we need for the law to be re-written to provide for a penalty.

Also, any attorney will tell you that in this day and age, to take a law literally is to set yourself up for a fall. There are so many interpretations in case law of the written statute that your head will spin. That is why you see so many bad dudes walk after you arrested them.

Black is rarely black. White is always grey. Unfortunately.

[JamesD]

Mine's getting pretty tattered and sun bleached, but I fly it proudly. It was given to me by a guy in uniform who said "On behalf of a grateful nation..."

[Bosoxfan]

I differ with the comments about the tattered flag. I took one to the American Legion last week for destruction that was in better shape than this one. My current "concern" is for the folks that put the little flags out that drag on the ground. I made some 1x1 sticks to raise mine, painted them red white and blue and they look much better.

Wow someone that gets it....Thank You! Tattered flags should not be flown & any flag should NEVER touch the ground!!!!

[Carl in Tampa]

Carl,
When I change my position on something, I admit I am wrong. I apparently did not clearly state my position. When I said it is not a law. You are right. I was not being literal. However, IMO, my point was that a law with no enforcement is for all practical purposes not a law. It is nothing more than a suggestion. That suggestion is normally sufficient for reasonable, law-abiding citizens. However, for those that would ignore the "suggestion" because there is no penalty, we need for the law to be re-written to provide for a penalty.

Also, any attorney will tell you that in this day and age, to take a law literally is to set yourself up for a fall. There are so many interpretations in case law of the written statute that your head will spin. That is why you see so many bad dudes walk after you arrested them.

Black is rarely black. White is always grey. Unfortunately.

1. When you take the mind set that a law with no enforcement is not a law, you are no longer amenable to being convinced to the contrary. This, despite the fact that I provided you with the title of of a major federal law, affecting virtually all active and most retired law enforcement officers, and the laws of every state in the Union. But the law has no enforcement provision so you do not consider it a law.

2. I take it you were speaking in generalities when you spoke of so many bad dudes walking after I arrested them.

I say this because 97 % of the felons I arrested pled guilty before trial and 100 % of those who went to trial were convicted.

That's pretty black and white to me.

:police:

[Indydealmaker]

1. When you take the mind set that a law with no enforcement is not a law, you are no longer amenable to being convinced to the contrary. This, despite the fact that I provided you with the title of of a major federal law, affecting virtually all active and most retired law enforcement officers, and the laws of every state in the Union. But the law has no enforcement provision so you do not consider it a law.

2. I take it you were speaking in generalities when you spoke of so many bad dudes walking after I arrested them.

I say this because 97 % of the felons I arrested pled guilty before trial and 100 % of those who went to trial were convicted.

That's pretty black and white to me.

:police:

Your track record is quite extraordinary.

[Carl in Tampa]

Your track record is quite extraordinary.

We've sort of hijacked this thread.

Let's go back to the point where you pointed out, correctly, that there is no enforcement mechanism associated with The Flag Code.

Would your point be that the Original Poster was taking it too seriously that the homeowner was flying the flag of another country below the flag of the United States?

A previous poster has already pointed out that the practice does not imply disrespect of the US Flag, but, if anything, of the flag that flies below it. The Flag Code says "International usage forbids the display of the flag of one nation above that of another nation in time of peace." How seriously should a Villages homeowner be concerned about "International usage?"

I'm interested in your view.

[scarecrow1]

Every so called patriotic villager should read the Code of Federal Regulations (passed by Congress) on how the Flag is to be handled, stored, cared for and most importantly "displayed" as it our source of pride. There are some in The Villages, that neither respect the Flag, nor care about it one put up on pole in their yards. I start off this forum discussion by posting of a FLAG not only improperly display in Hadley, but in such disrepair, it is a disgrace. This so called American is seems more proud of his Heritage than being an American. I suggest all of you that carry a CAMERA to get out and take a picture and post it here, but to also go up to the door of such people and tell them how they are disrespecting the flag, and our country.--a proud Navy VET. The homeowner featured hear considers himself to be a "South African" because under law--of this great land--you CANNOT fly the flag of another nation directly beneath the American Flag. It MUST be on another entirely different pole!
I do believe the Stars Bangle Banner that flew over the fort had bullet holes and cannon holes in as it flew for a couple of days and nights. " and the flag was still there." I fought for my country and that flag and I'll fly it anyway I please. If someone doesn't like the way I fly my flag you can go ------.:cus: P.S. I do believe its a free country and to heck with educate.

[CFrance]

I do believe the Stars Bangle Banner that flew over the fort had bullet holes and cannon holes in as it flew fore a couple of days and nights. " and the flag was still there." I fought for my country and that flag and I'll fly it anyway I please. If someone doesn't like the way I fly my flag you can go ------.:cus: P.S. I do believe its a free country and to heck with educate.

Star Spangled Banner flew for a couple of days and nights.

Sorry, the editor in me could not hold back, especially since the threat in the post didn't make me happy.

[BobnBev]

Too many hoops?

1. Carry photo ID that shows you are a qualified retired LEO.
2. Qualify with your firearm once a year.
3. Carry the range qualification certification with you.

Having done these things your only limitations have to do with pretty much the same exclusions that are included in your FL CCW license, and you are legal in states that don't recognize the FL CCW, like California, New York and the District of Columbia.

However, like you, I also have a FL CCW license. I got one right after they passed the enabling law.

Florida has reciprocity agreements with over 30 states regarding recognition of our CCW licenses.

:police:

#2-----
When LEOSA first came out, CT would only certify your range qualification, if you used the State Police range. That was done by appointment only. You miss the appointment, TS for that year. I think that has changed now, but
I wouldn't go back to CT just to qualify. Going thru NY and NJ, the gun is locked in my gun box, in the trunk. I make it a point to NOT get stopped-lol

[Carl in Tampa]

#2-----
When LEOSA first came out, CT would only certify your range qualification, if you used the State Police range. That was done by appointment only. You miss the appointment, TS for that year. I think that has changed now, but
I wouldn't go back to CT just to qualify. Going thru NY and NJ, the gun is locked in my gun box, in the trunk. I make it a point to NOT get stopped-lol

Are you now a resident of Florida? LEOSA requires that your annual qualification be done to the standard of police officers in the state of your residence.

My former agency, the Sheriff's Office in Tampa, offers pistol qualification opportunity to retired officers once a month at no charge. You have to provide your own weapon and ammunition. They take the position that if you want to carry your choice of revolver or semi-automatic then you must qualify with both. You can do both on the same visit.

The course of fire is only about 40 rounds, all from a standing position, and the longest distance is 15 yards. (The closest is 2 yards, with your pistol already drawn and held at low ready.) One of the officers who developed the course sent me an e-mail right after it was adopted and said, "Carl, a man in a wheelchair could qualify on this course."

In addition to your pistol and ammo, you should have eye and ear protection.

If you decide you might want to qualify at some future time, let me know and I'll give you the details about the location, dates and times (First Fridays of the month, very early) and telephone numbers to make contact with the Range Officer to let them know you are coming.

They used to mail you your range card but I think they now issue the range qualification certification on the spot after qualifying.

I could probably also check with some of my retired friends and find other places where you could qualify, but the places may require a fee for the service.

[Indydealmaker]

We've sort of hijacked this thread.

Let's go back to the point where you pointed out, correctly, that there is no enforcement mechanism associated with The Flag Code.

Would your point be that the Original Poster was taking it too seriously that the homeowner was flying the flag of another country below the flag of the United States?

A previous poster has already pointed out that the practice does not imply disrespect of the US Flag, but, if anything, of the flag that flies below it. The Flag Code says "International usage forbids the display of the flag of one nation above that of another nation in time of peace." How seriously should a Villages homeowner be concerned about "International usage?"

I'm interested in your view.

I agree that the Code should be honored when flying our flag. However, I think that the OP may have over-reacted in lieu of polite communication with the homeowner in question. I may have overlooked the post that discussed the OP trying to educate the homeowner without success.

I doubt that the homeowner was deliberately showing disrespect. Most likely, it was a lack of knowledge or a difference of interpretation. As you pointed out, the Flag Code refers to "international usage". It would seem that in this instance, there is room for the benefit of the doubt. A more overt display would have been to fly his flag instead of the U.S. flag.

[mrfixit]

...been gone a while...
... got back and read this thread which is expressing a genuine dislike of those displaying a torn flag.

...noticed a couple of 2 inch rips and frayed edge on the lighted flag.

Certainly would not want to be called out and have address published...
You have won me over...having NO FLAG is better than displaying a torn flag...
...as of 1900 hrs 25-May-2014.
... have taken down the U.S. Flag and removed the Pole in its entirety.

No more torn or tattered flags to be displayed...
...sorry if anyone was offended by the torn Flag.

The US Flag presented...
..."on behalf of a grateful Nation" is a story for another day.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Well, now that it's Memorial Day, I think that someone ought to drive around the Villages and write down the addresses of all of those unpatriotic residents that stick those little stick flags on their front lawns. I've noticed that sone of them touch the ground a bit.
Unpatriotic behavior like that needs to be dealt with.

(For those that don't know me, this is what is known as sarcasm)

[scarecrow1]

Star Spangled Banner flew for a couple of days and nights.

Sorry, the editor in me could not hold back, especially since the threat in the post didn't make me happy.

Sorry for my misspelled word as I was writing with my phone and without my glasses.

[PammyJ]

Well, now that it's Memorial, I think that someone ought to drive around the Villages and write down the addresses of all of those unpatriotic residents that stick those little stick flags on their front lawns. I've noticed that sone of them touch the ground a bit.
Unpatriotic behavior like that needs to be dealt with.

(For those that don't know me, this is what is known as sarcasm)

Lol!

[scarecrow1]

Yea you have to let people know its sarcasm or they'll report you to the admin and they will remove your post. (Again more sarcasm)

[Carl in Tampa]

Well, now that it's Memorial Day, I think that someone ought to drive around the Villages and write down the addresses of all of those unpatriotic residents that stick those little stick flags on their front lawns. I've noticed that sone of them touch the ground a bit.
Unpatriotic behavior like that needs to be dealt with.

(For those that don't know me, this is what is known as sarcasm)

My sarcasm detection meter went off when I got to "...drive around The Villages..."

:a20: :MOJE_whot: :1rotfl:

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

No offense to anyone really, but calling someone unpatriotic because they fly the American flag and don't do it to exact specifications is a bit absurd. People are making an honest effort and should be congratulated.

What's next? Because we fought the Nazis in WWII it's considered unpatriotic to put sauerkraut on your hot dog? We probably shouldn't even eat hamburgers let alone sushi.

[Carl in Tampa]

No offense to anyone really, but calling someone unpatriotic because they fly the American flag and don't do it to exact specifications is a bit absurd. People are making an honest effort and should be congratulated.

What's next? Because we fought the Nazis in WWII it's considered unpatriotic to put sauerkraut on your hot dog? We probably shouldn't even eat hamburgers let alone sushi.

We also fought wars with the Spanish and with the Mexicans, so there goes Spanish food and Mexican food.

We fought with the Chinese at the time of the Boxer Rebellion; so long to Chinese food.

Then there were the wars with the North Koreans and the North Vietnamese.

We warred with the Brits. Well no big loss on Brit food. ;o)
But, at the time India was part of the British Empire, so no more Indian Food.

We sent in the Marines to subdue several Caribbean nations; so much for Caribbean styled foods.

We arranged the overthrow of the Hawaiian Monarchy so that Hawaii could become a state. No more Luaus folks.

We mixed it up with France in the French and Indian War.

We were in conflict with the Muslim Ottoman Empire (Turkey dominated) from the time of the Barbary Pirates to WWII, so no ethnic food from Ottoman countries.

We invaded Cuba; no Cuban food. (I'm going to miss that one.)

Of course we warred with Native American Tribes, so none of their food. (I have eaten Buffalo.)

When you get down to it, we warred with each other from 1861 to 1865, so that pretty well leaves us with nothing to eat.

Perhaps this whole thing has gotten out of hand.

:pepper2: :pepper2: :pepper2:

[dewilson58]

[QUOTE=Dr Winston O Boogie jr;883414]No offense to anyone really, but calling someone unpatriotic because they fly the American flag and don't do it to exact specifications is a bit absurd. People are making an honest effort and should be congratulated.

/QUOTE]

Agree. I'm patriotic, but may not know all the rules and regulations.......real or not, factual or fictional.

[CFrance]

We also fought wars with the Spanish and with the Mexicans, so there goes Spanish food and Mexican food.

We fought with the Chinese at the time of the Boxer Rebellion; so long to Chinese food.

Then there were the wars with the North Koreans and the North Vietnamese.

We warred with the Brits. Well no big loss on Brit food. ;o)
But, at the time India was part of the British Empire, so no more Indian Food.

We sent in the Marines to subdue several Caribbean nations; so much for Caribbean styled foods.

We arranged the overthrow of the Hawaiian Monarchy so that Hawaii could become a state. No more Luaus folks.

We mixed it up with France in the French and Indian War.

We were in conflict with the Muslim Ottoman Empire (Turkey dominated) from the time of the Barbary Pirates to WWII, so no ethnic food from Ottoman countries.

We invaded Cuba; no Cuban food. (I'm going to miss that one.)

Of course we warred with Native American Tribes, so none of their food. (I have eaten Buffalo.)

When you get down to it, we warred with each other from 1861 to 1865, so that pretty well leaves us with nothing to eat.

Perhaps this whole thing has gotten out of hand.

:pepper2: :pepper2: :pepper2:
Geez, Carl. Do we have to give our Dodge back to Canada?:shrug:

[Bosoxfan]

Well, now that it's Memorial Day, I think that someone ought to drive around the Villages and write down the addresses of all of those unpatriotic residents that stick those little stick flags on their front lawns. I've noticed that sone of them touch the ground a bit.
Unpatriotic behavior like that needs to be dealt with.

(For those that don't know me, this is what is known as sarcasm)

sarcasm noted but I don't see the problem in pointing out something that's apparently unknown by some. I congratulate anyone that shows they're patriotism I just wish some would go that little extra to know how to do it properly. Who doesn't know that a flag isn't supposed to touch the ground? With just a little more effort it wouldn't.

[Villages PL]

When I first moved to The Villages I decided to go to the target range for pistol shooting. It turned out to be a group of mostly veterans that were there that day. And far off in the distance we saw the American flag, way up high on a flag pole, flying upside down.

They got very angry and I tryed to calm them down by suggesting it might have been a mistake. But they wouldn't hear of it being a mistake by reason of dimentia or whatever. They said they would deal with it when they were through with target practice. That's all I know about it.

If it was done on purpose, what was the point of it? Why would someone have a flag and a flag pole and fly it upside down? What would they be trying to express?

[dewilson58]

Maybe they are not being disrespectful if they are not following a code.

[buggyone]

On I-75 heading South, there is someone who has a very large Confederate battle flag on a flagpole basically next to the highway. I am sure it is on his property and is legal for him to fly it - but, to me, it is a symbol of racism that is disgusting. It is also a sign of treason against the USA, in my viewpoint, since the CSA lost the Civil War.

[Topspinmo]

"far off in the distance we saw the American flag, way up high on a flag pole, flying upside down. "

Flying the American flag upside down is an officially recognized signal of distress.. Maybe who ever flying the flag upside down considers the country in distress???

Sometimes people go to far with their statements of symbols on their property IMO. But, it their choice.

[dewilson58]

Maybe they are not being disrespectful if they are not following a code.

How many of us have put invitations, graduation cards, garage sale fliers, May Day cards, etc., in mail boxes without postage. Rhetorical.

[buggyone]

"far off in the distance we saw the American flag, way up high on a flag pole, flying upside down. "

Flying the American flag upside down is an officially recognized signal of distress.. Maybe who ever flying the flag upside down considers the country in distress???

Sometimes people go to far with their statements of symbols on their property IMO. But, it their choice.

There is also the remote possibility that the homeowner was in danger and was trying to signal for help. I have seen that on some television shows.

[Cedwards38]

If you fly the flag on the front of your home, does it matter which side of the main door the flag and pole are placed?