I encourage everyone to fly the American flag proudly and properly on Independence Day. At the same time, do not dishonor the flag by wearing it or using a disposable object with the flag printed on it. These are violations of the Flag Code, which by Act of Congress on June 22, 1942, became Public Law 77-623; chapter 435.
The law includes the following restrictions intended to show respect for the flag:
• The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding or drapery.
• The flag should never be used for advertising purposes in any manner whatsoever. It should not be embroidered on such articles as cushions or handkerchiefs and the like, printed or otherwise impressed on paper napkins or boxes or anything that is designed for temporary use and discard.
• No part of the flag should ever be used as a costume or athletic uniform. However, a flag patch may be affixed to the uniform of military personnel, firemen, policemen and members of patriotic organizations.
Tom Weiss
Murrysville