When two or more flags are displayed on one staff, code says the US Flag must be be in the top position. However, code also states that the US Flag should not be allowed to touch anything else including the ground, floor, water or merchandise. When a state flag is displayed the US Flag, how much distance should separate the two flags? If the state flag is attached directly below the US Flag, then when there is no wind blowing, the US Flag will touch and partly cover the state flag. If enough space is provided to separate the flags to where the US Flag does not touch the state flag (with no wind), then it would require several feet of separation. I cannot recall ever seeing flags displayed in this manner.

[NAVA1974]

The prohibition against the US flag touching anything else is meant to show respect for the flag. The flag obviously must touch the halyard. The flag must touch the flag pole. The flag may touch a flag that is below it without showing any disrespect. Indeed, you need to be careful which flag you place below the US flag - to place the flag of a foreign nation is a sign of disrespect towards THAT country's flag, and the flag code prohibits that as well (except that the US flag may fly above the flag of a defeated enemy.)

[docmarv]

hello all,

Is it ok to hang a USMC flag below the US flag?

thank you

[NAVA1974]

Originally Posted by docmarv

hello all,

Is it ok to hang a USMC flag below the US flag?

thank you

Yes it is ok to place an organization's flag below the USA flag.

[docmarv]

Thank you for the quick reply

Marvin

[joansaraf]

I am inquiring as to whether or not you can fly a Canadian flag below the American flag - on the same pole? Does the same apply that the American flag cannot touch the Canadian flag - when the wind is not blowing - and they are hanging down. Thanks for a prompt response.

[NAVA1974]

Originally Posted by joansaraf

I am inquiring as to whether or not you can fly a Canadian flag below the American flag - on the same pole?

International law forbids the flying of one national flag over another except in time of war as a sign of victory in battle. The USA is not at war with Canada last time I checked.

The Canadian flag must be flown on a separate flag pole. If the poles are in the USA, the US flag must be on the pole to the left as you are viewing it.

Nick