[EmailPoster]

Is it improper to move the flag while singing the national anthem?

Originally Posted by dd

Please answer a question for us. We fully understand that it is necessary to face and salute the flag during the playing of the national anthem.

Is it improper to move the flag while singing the national anthem?

Thank you for your consideration of this question

Darrel

[jproffitt10]

Darrell,

While the U.S. Flag Code does not address the movement of the flag during the playing of the National Anthem, the answer to your question does lie in its' instructions to all persons present during the playing of the National Anthem.

§301. National anthem; Star-Spangled Banner

1. The composition consisting of the words and music known as The Star-Spangled Banner is designated the national anthem of the United States of America.
2. Conduct during playing — During rendition of the national anthem—
   1. when the flag is displayed —
      1. all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart;
      2. men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold the headdress at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart; and
      3. individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note; and

when the flag is not displayed, all present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed.

If the flag is moving (except as moved by the wind) it would be difficult for people to follow it, civilians and especially service, law enforcement or EMS personnel who might be standing at attention. So the answer to your question is that the flag should, FOR PRACTICAL REASONS, be still during the Star-Spangled Banner. Thanks.