Per the U.S. Flag Code: fly your Memorial Day flag at half-staff from sunrise to noon, then raise briskly to full staff from noon until sunset. Importantly, this half-staff-then-full-staff observance is unique to Memorial Day among federal holidays. The protocol symbolizes mourning the fallen, then affirming the nation's continued strength.

Half-staff means the flag is positioned at the middle of the flagpole — specifically, raise the flag to the peak first, then lower to half-staff position. Furthermore, when lowering at sunset, raise to the peak briefly before lowering completely.

For universal appropriateness, the "Remember and Honor" Memorial Day flag is the most recognized tribute design. On the other hand, "All Gave Some, Some Gave All" carries strong military significance, and Kneeling Soldier or Christ Cross designs work well for faith-forward households. For 2026 specifically, our Veterans 250 flags add Semiquincentennial framing.

For most residential flagpoles (15–20 ft tall), order 3×5 ft grommet flags — the universal default. Garden flags (12×18 in) work for walkway and cemetery display. House flags (28×40 in) suit front entry brackets. Specifically, the rule of thumb: flag length should equal approximately ¼ of flagpole height.

Specifically, Memorial Day (last Monday of May) honors service members who died in service. On the other hand, Veterans Day (November 11) honors all who have served — both living and deceased veterans. Furthermore, Memorial Day requires half-staff observance until noon; Veterans Day flies at full staff all day.