American Flag Facts


  • Only the President and Governors of the State can order flags on government buildings to be flown at half staff.

  • When a flag is no longer serviceable or repairable, it should be destroyed in a dignified manner, such as burning.

  • It is acceptable to wash or dry clean an American flag when it is soiled or otherwise dirty.

  • You do not have to destroy a flag that has touched the ground. If it becomes dirty, the flag should be cleaned.


  • The American flag is composed of thirteen equal horizontal red stripes that alternate with white ones. A blue-colored rectangle in the upper left quarter of the flag bears 50 white five-pointed stars. They are arranged in nine horizontal rows where the rows containing six stars each, alternate with rows consisting of five stars.

  • There is no legal definition for the symbolism of the colors used in the American flag. However, it is said that white signifies purity and innocence, red stands for valor and blue for vigilance, perseverance and justice.

    Facts compiled from the USA Flag Site and
