American flag patch worn backwards

The blue field of white stars is in the top left corner, with red and white stripes making up the rest of the right and bottom. Source: MaxPixel The American Flag flying in the wind, with the blue field of stars to the upper left. Source: DoDLive The flag is worn on the right shoulder. Actually, the flag patch is worn backwards to give others the same impression it did when it was first carried into battle.

The momentum of the flag bearer would leave the flag streaming behind, appearing backwards to enemies, or anyone else close enough to catch a glimpse. Source: Wikimedia Commons The backwards flag resembles what it would look like, were it being carried into battle. This feature is unique to U. Apply market research to generate audience insights. Measure content performance. Develop and improve products. List of Partners vendors. Military Branches The Orderly Room.

Table of Contents Expand. Table of Contents. History of Flags On The Right. History of the Backward Flag. Updates to the Army Uniform Flag Rule.

By Stewart Smith. Learn about our editorial policies. Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for TheBalanceCareers. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page. These choices will be signaled globally to our partners and will not affect browsing data. When it comes to the meaning of a backward flag, this is one of those many things that may be well known to a tactical professional yet a mystery to a civilian.

Let's take a closer look at the meaning of a backward flag. While some may mistakenly think that a backward or reverse flag is show of disrespect, it is actually a sign of respect to display it this way on a military uniform. The American flag is a symbol of freedom and a certain set of values we hold dear as a nation.

There are rules and codes regarding how the American flag can be worn such as how an actual flag can never be worn as clothing, as well as rules regarding how the flag is flown and handled in general, to help uphold the respect and honor it deserves after the sacrifices of so many.