Two days before the big game, it sent out a memo to the Marine Corps, Army, Air Force, Navy, and National Guard spokespeople, reminding them of the proper protocol regarding respect for the American flag. The U.S. Flag Code sets particular guidelines for display, size, and “dignified” destruction. A set of advisory rules dictates the treatment of the flag used by federal agencies.
According to the New York Post, the code reads that “the flag represents a living country and is itself considered a living thing” and that “no part of the flag should ever be used as a costume or athletic uniform. It indicates a lapel pin showing the flag must be displayed on the left side of the chest “near the heart.”
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Regarding non-military or civilians, it’s not illegal for them to treat the flag inappropriately. However, for military members, the Department of Defense (DoD) requires them to adhere to the Flag Code, and they “must consistently show proper respect to the U.S. flag.”
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Therefore the assistant to the Secretary of Defense of Public Affairs, Chris Meagher, distributed the message to remind military members of the requirements and encourage them not to participate in the Super Bowl’s pre-game flag displays.
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The memo included that “while many, including military members, view these displays as inspiring and patriotic, uniformed service members may not participate directly in the unfurling, holding and/or carrying of giant, horizontal U.S. flags that are displayed during community outreach events.”
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The notice read, “Similarly, DoD jump teams may not incorporate the U.S. flag in their public demonstrations if the flag cannot be caught reliably and handled respectfully by ground personnel during landings.” The memo also noted that marching in a parade while holding the flag horizontally is forbidden.
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Was the memo necessary? Maybe so. During the 2022-2023 NFL season, pre-game ceremonies were held where the flag was technically mishandled while uniformed military members participated. According to the New York Post, in October 2022, uniformed members of the Air Force unveiled the Stars and Stripes at the Jaguars v. Broncos pre-game at London’s Wembley Stadium.
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During the “Star-Spangled Banner” rendition, an oversized American flag was unfurled across the field horizontally, with red- and blue-clad civilians, rather than uniformed troops, participating. According to a DoD spokesperson, the memo “ensures that our Service members can properly showcase their patriotism and military capabilities while complying with DoD policy.”
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