Actress Kaley Cuoco of "The Big Bang Theory" is in some hot water for an Instagram post. She was thanking the people who were watching her dogs while she was out of town. There's an American flag on the ground and two dogs are sitting on it.
Thousands of people voiced their outrage because of the violations of flag etiquette. Cuoco deleted the post and apologized for the photo and saying "She is a proud American."
A lot of people on social media sided with Cuoco not because she didn't do something wrong, but because these days most people aren't taught the rules of flag etiquette.
"There is a lot of rules people are getting away from," said VFW Post 67 Comander Mike Andrade. The Sacramento VFW teaches flag etiquette several times a year. They follow the laws in the Federal Governments "Flag Code".
The Code specifically says "The flag should never touch the ground" and "The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding or drapery." Commander Andrade says most people who wear or display the flag are trying to be patriotic. He believes there is a lack of flag etiquette education in schools.
"Clothing I don't mind it much at least they are not burning the flag," Andrade said.
Burning the flag is considered constitutional but very disrespectful accept when a worn out flag needs to be retired. All VFW Posts accept worn out flag. Posts regularly burn worn flags in a ceremonial way. American flags that are in good condition should always fly at equal level with other flags. It should be pulled in during bad weather or at night when they are not illuminated.
The Flag Code contains rules for handling and displaying the U.S. flag. While the federal code contains no penalties for misusing the flag, states have their own flag codes and may impose penalties. The language of the federal code makes clear that the flag is a living symbol.