Why are military American flag patches backwards?

Since the Stars and Stripes are mounted with the canton closest to the pole, that section of the flag stayed to the right, while the stripes flew to the left. Therefore, the flag is worn on the right shoulder, and wearing it backward gives the effect of the flag flying in the breeze as the wearer moves forward.

What is the backwards flag patch?

As the proponent for standardization and authorization of heraldry items within the Department of Defense, the Institute of Heraldry addresses the apparent oddity of the reverse flag patch by stating, “When worn on the right sleeve, it is considered proper to reverse the design so that the union is at the observer’s …

When did the military start wearing the flag backwards?

It was not until 2003-2005 that these American flags backward became a permanent component of military uniforms. According to the 2003 Army Regulation 670-1: Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia, the correct and only way to wear the U.S flag patch on a uniform is with the stars facing forward.

Which way should an American flag patch face?

When displayed against a wall or in a window, the American flag should always be displayed with stars in the upper left corner. This applies to flags hung horizontally or vertically. When worn on clothing, the stars should be facing forward, allowing the stripes to stream behind.

What does a flipped American flag mean?

Flying the American flag upside down is considered by many, including those who have served our country in uniform, to be disrespectful. The U.S. Defense Department says the flag should only be flown upside down “to convey a sign of distress or great danger.”

Can civilians wear reverse flag?

Yes, civilians can wear American flag patches on their clothing in the same manner as the military wear. Wearing anywhere else can be seen as disrespectful, so be careful and not forget to follow the proper rules to avoid disrespecting the American flag.

Can civilians wear backwards flag?

What does a reverse American flag mean?

The reverse flag dates back to the Army’s early history when both cavalry and infantry units would charge ahead as the Stars and Stripes streamed backwards. Today, the reverse flag is worn on the right sleeve of military uniforms and symbolizes the courage and respect of those who serve.

Is a backwards flag disrespectful?

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 only time you should see a backward or reverse flag is on the uniform of a military professional as an arm patch worn on their sleeve.

What does the reverse flag stand for?

Why is the U.S. flag worn backward on Army uniforms?

Basically, the idea behind the backward American flag on Army uniforms is to make it look as though the flag is flying in the breeze as the person wearing it moves forward. During the Civil War, both mounted cavalry and infantry units would designate a standard bearer, who carried the flag into battle.

What is reverse flag patch?

Today, the reverse flag is worn on the right sleeve of military uniforms and symbolizes the courage and respect of those who serve. Our abstract of the US flag is meant to highlight our pride as a company at having all of our gear built in the USA, by American workers, with American craftsmanship. Read more on the Reverse Flag Patch.

What is a reversed flag?

For those who need a trivia lesson, the purpose of the reversed flag is for proper display of the flag on the right side of a mover such as a human or vehicle. The concept is the flag is on an imaginary flag pole so if moving forward the flag would be blowing back and display reversed.