Flying the national ensign properly is a big deal for many. I do not find that the majority know all the protocols thoroughly. I remember when a mast was erected at the recreational marina at Hickam AFB in the 70s the US flag flew properly from the gaff. The base commander got all upset that the flag was not flown from the top. It was explained to him that the convention was that that was the place of honor and the appropriate place for it to fly. He embarrassedly accepted his error. The harbor master then had the gaff removed so that the flag could fly at the top and the commander did not appear so silly. Heard the exact same grumble from two Army Colonels a few years ago, they thought they knew the protocol but had never been exposed to all the other possibilities.
I spent fifty years living and working on Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force Bases was a Cub Scout all the way to Eagle Scout on those bases so I got a pretty good indoctrination into the proper care , display and reverence to our flag. I do feel a little tinge of pain when I see an example of our flag not given it's proper due. Most of the time it is out of ignorance not disrespect and a little education is all that's needed. Flying a Jolly Roger or other pirate flag for an event such as Gasparilla or Bowlegs is just joining in the festivities flying one all year long I find inane and puerile. Personal feelings aside this is America and it's your boat your flag and your freedom to display it however see fit. Just be aware of how it reflects upon you and if you don't mind the whole marina looking at you as an ignorant jackass then follow your bliss.
That turned into quite a rant, all I wanted to say was do what you enjoy. If you fail to follow the standard traditions but it is not done out of disrespect nor malice I am happy to see the flag fly.
I spent fifty years living and working on Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force Bases was a Cub Scout all the way to Eagle Scout on those bases so I got a pretty good indoctrination into the proper care , display and reverence to our flag. I do feel a little tinge of pain when I see an example of our flag not given it's proper due. Most of the time it is out of ignorance not disrespect and a little education is all that's needed. Flying a Jolly Roger or other pirate flag for an event such as Gasparilla or Bowlegs is just joining in the festivities flying one all year long I find inane and puerile. Personal feelings aside this is America and it's your boat your flag and your freedom to display it however see fit. Just be aware of how it reflects upon you and if you don't mind the whole marina looking at you as an ignorant jackass then follow your bliss.
That turned into quite a rant, all I wanted to say was do what you enjoy. If you fail to follow the standard traditions but it is not done out of disrespect nor malice I am happy to see the flag fly.
