Final Exam American Flag Knowledge

AFJROTC

When was the American flag officially adopted?

June 14, 1777

What is celebrated on June 14 each year?

Flag Day

What do the 13 stripes represent?

The original 13 colonies

What do the 50 stars represent?

The 50 states in the Union

What do the colors red, white, and blue symbolize?

Red = hardiness and valor
White = purity and innocence
Blue = vigilance, perseverance, and justice

Who is traditionally credited with creating the first American flag?

Betsy Ross

What was unique about the Betsy Ross flag design?

The 13 stars were arranged in a circle

What was the first colonial flag that looked similar to today’s American flag?

The Grand Union Flag

Why did the flag change to 15 stars and 15 stripes in 1795?

Vermont and Kentucky joined the Union

Who suggested keeping 13 stripes while adding stars for new states?

Captain Samuel C. Reid, USN

When may the American flag be displayed 24 hours a day?

When it is properly lit at night

What should you do first when raising the flag to half-staff?

Raise it to the peak first

Where should the American flag be placed when flown with other flags?

In the position of honor/highest point

Which side should the American flag be on during a parade procession?

On the marching right or front and center

How should the flag be displayed against a wall or in a window?

With the union uppermost and to the flag’s own right (viewer’s left)

What should you do when the flag passes in a parade?

Stand and place your hand over your heart (or salute if in uniform)

What should never happen to the American flag?

It should never touch the ground or be used as clothing/advertising

Who wrote “The Star-Spangled Banner”?

Francis Scott Key

What is the purpose of the Pledge of Allegiance?

Express patriotism

Loyalty

Support for liberty and justice for all

What are the two purposes of the Retreat ceremony?

To signal the end of the duty day

Show respect to the flag