Sunday, September 18, 2016

History Of Flagpoles And Their Lightings

By Alfred Goggins


The American flag, officially recognized as the flag of the United States, is to be treated with respect as it is a representative of a living country and understood to be a living entity according to Section 8 of the “Flag Code”. The flag should not be shown disrespect, dipped to any person or thing, never carried horizontally, never touch the ground, the floor, water or merchandise and never worn as apparel, bedding or drapery.

"It is the universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on stationary flagstaffs in the open. However, when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness."

The code does not discuss any official methods for lighting the flag so as long as the display of the flag does not violate the “spirit of the Flag Code.” The code further explains that “the dignity accorded to the flag is preserved by lighting that prevents it's being enveloped in darkness.”

Yes, the American flag needs to be respectfully illuminated if it’s to be flown at night, but it should be done properly also respecting our environment. It’s also important to realize that you don’t have to light the flag pole itself, just the flag. This means that the beam of light can be narrower. Many patriots will use a large flood light for Old Glory when they really need to use only a spotlight instead.

"Those who fly the flag day and night should ensure that it is made of material strong enough to withstand such wear and that it is replaced promptly when it begins to show signs of wear. While it would appear appropriate to illuminate the flag after sunset so that passerby will be aware of its display, the Code does not require that it be illuminated and its display without illumination is not considered an impropriety."

However, there is a barrage of cheap flagpole lightings being imported and sold, that do not comply with the flag statute. This is bad for a number of reasons. Imported stuff is cheaply made and more importantly, the designs, materials, colors, and methods do not compare well with the better quality, longer-lasting, and correctly designed flagpole lightings made by American manufacturers. The Flag Company Inc specialized in flags and flagpole lightings offered a special edition of solar powered flagpole lightings to provide innovative solutions for individual projects.




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