What is the correct sequence when lowering the US flag?

What is the correct sequence when lowering the US flag?

• A. Loosen the halyard from the pole and slowly lower the flag; the second person salutes until the flag is within reach, then the flag is gathered.
• B. Attach flag to halyard and yank it down quickly.
• C. Loosen halyard and shout to finish.
• D. Let the flag drift to the ground and then pick it up later.

Answer: (A)

Lowering the flag is done with calm, respectful handling. Start by loosening the halyard so the flag can come down under control, then slowly lower it instead of letting it drop. As the flag descends, the person on the ground who is in the ceremonial role should continue to salute until the flag is within reach, at which point the flag is gathered and secured properly. This keeps the flag from touching the ground and shows reverence for the symbol it represents. Using a quick yank, shouting to finish, or letting the flag drift to the ground are not appropriate and break the ceremonial decorum.

Lowering the flag is done with calm, respectful handling. Start by loosening the halyard so the flag can come down under control, then slowly lower it instead of letting it drop. As the flag descends, the person on the ground who is in the ceremonial role should continue to salute until the flag is within reach, at which point the flag is gathered and secured properly. This keeps the flag from touching the ground and shows reverence for the symbol it represents. Using a quick yank, shouting to finish, or letting the flag drift to the ground are not appropriate and break the ceremonial decorum.