This isn't one of the biggest issues facing our government today - But I wonder if the people that violate these basic rules even know that they are violating them. We have rarely displayed a flag - because of the work involved and because we didn't want to violate Flag Protocol. But today in the rain, we saw flags flying and Don asked me if this was proper.
So I went and looked it up. Please feel free to chime in if your information differs from mine.
It is customary to fly the flag from sunrise to sunset. The U.S flag may be displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during hours of darkness I am surprised to see how many flags are flown at night without being lighted appropriately.
It is generally not desirable to fly the flag outdoors when the weather is particularly inclement because exposure to severe winds and rain may damage the flag or the pole on which it is displayed.
When the U.S. flag is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, it should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably via flag disposal ceremonies held at your local VFW or American Legion Posts.
http://www.heritage-flag.com/heritage_etiquette.htm
