Sometimes we need to go back for a refresher to understand where we have come from. In my days, the United States Flag was respected and cherished. We learned the meaning of our flag and how to display, acknowledge it, and care for it. So let's review the pointers found on usflag.org:

• The flag should never be dipped to any person or thing. It is flown upside down only as a distress signal.
• The flag should not be used as a drapery, or for covering a podium or platform or for any decoration in general. Bunting of blue, white and red stripes is available for these purposes. The blue stripe of the bunting should be on the top.
• The flag should never be used for any advertising purpose.
• The flag should not be used as part of a costume or athletic uniform, except that a flag patch may be used on the uniform of military personnel, fireman, policeman and members of patriotic organizations.
• The flag should never be used as a receptacle for carrying or delivering anything.
• When the flag is lowered, no part of it should touch the ground.
• To store the flag, it should be folded neatly and ceremoniously.
• The flag should be cleaned and mended when necessary.
• When a flag is so worn it is no longer fit to serve as a symbol of our country, it should be destroyed by burning in a dignified manner. American Legion Posts regularly conduct a dignified flag burning ceremony.
• No other flag ever should be placed above the Stars and Stripes.
• The flag is to be flown at half-staff in mourning for designated, principal government leaders and upon presidential or gubernatorial order.
• To salute the flag and show respect, all persons come to attention. Those in uniform give the appropriate formal salute. Citizens not in uniform salute by placing their right hand over the heart and men with head cover should remove it and hold it to left shoulder, hand over the heart.
• This Fourth of July, put out a flag and display it proudly. It is one of the few symbols we can rally around.