How To Fly a POW/MIA Flag Alongside the American Flag

The POW/MIA flag is one of the most recognized flags in the country outside of the Stars and Stripes. Its stark black and white design with the silhouette of a bowed head, a guard tower, and the words "You Are Not Forgotten" carries a heavy message. But knowing what the flag represents and knowing how to display it correctly are two different things.

At Colonial Flag, we carry POW/MIA and military flags and help customers set up displays that follow the rules. Here is how to fly the POW/MIA flag properly alongside the American flag.

What the POW/MIA Flag Represents

The POW/MIA flag was created in 1971 by the National League of POW/MIA Families during the Vietnam War. It was designed to keep public attention on American prisoners of war and service members listed as missing in action. The flag became an official symbol recognized by Congress and is the only flag other than the American flag that has been displayed at the White House.

Today, the flag represents all American POWs and MIAs from every conflict, not only Vietnam.

Federal Law on POW/MIA Flag Display

The display of the POW/MIA flag is governed by federal law under U.S. Code Title 36, Section 902. The law requires the POW/MIA flag to be displayed at specific federal buildings, national cemeteries, war memorials, and post offices on designated days. While the legal requirement applies to government buildings, many private citizens, businesses, and organizations also fly the flag as a show of support.

Where the POW/MIA Flag Goes on a Single Pole

When both the American flag and the POW/MIA flag are flown on the same pole, the American flag is always at the top. The POW/MIA flag goes directly below it. No other flag should be placed between them.

The POW/MIA flag should be the same size as or slightly smaller than the American flag above it. An oversized POW/MIA flag below a smaller American flag looks unbalanced and does not follow proper display protocol. Colonial Flag carries both flags in matching sizes to make this easy.

The flagpole needs to be tall enough to accommodate two flags without the lower one touching the ground or bunching against the top flag. A pole that is at least 20 feet tall works well for a standard two-flag display.

Displaying the POW/MIA Flag on a Separate Pole

If the POW/MIA flag is on its own pole next to the American flag, the American flag's pole should be to its own right (the viewer's left). The POW/MIA flag pole goes to the American flag's left (the viewer's right). Both flags should be the same size, and the POW/MIA flag should not be flown higher than the American flag.

For organizations or businesses with a row of commercial flagpoles, the American flag is first in the position of honor, followed by the POW/MIA flag, then any state, military, or organizational flags in the correct order.

Required Display Days

Federal law specifies six days when the POW/MIA flag should be displayed at government facilities: Armed Forces Day (third Saturday in May), Memorial Day (last Monday in May), Flag Day (June 14), Independence Day (July 4), National POW/MIA Recognition Day (third Friday in September), and Veterans Day (November 11). Many private flagpole owners choose to fly the POW/MIA flag year-round, which is perfectly acceptable.

Common Display Mistakes

The most frequent mistake is placing the POW/MIA flag above the American flag or on a taller pole. No flag should ever be flown above or in a more prominent position than the American flag on U.S. soil. Another common error is flying a POW/MIA flag that has faded to the point where the design is no longer legible. A worn flag should be replaced. Check the flag etiquette guide for complete display rules.

Also make sure the flagpole components can support two flags. Flying two flags on a single pole puts extra stress on the halyard, truck, and clips. Inspect the hardware and upgrade if necessary.

Find the Right Flags and Hardware

Colonial Flag carries POW/MIA flags, American flags, flagpoles, and all the flagpole components needed for a proper two-flag display. For help choosing the right sizes and hardware, call 801-562-0123 or stop by the Sandy, Utah showroom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the POW/MIA flag go above or below the American flag?

Below. When on the same pole, the American flag is always at the top. The POW/MIA flag goes directly underneath it with no other flags in between.

What days is the POW/MIA flag required to be flown?

Federal law specifies six days: Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, National POW/MIA Recognition Day, and Veterans Day. Many people choose to fly it every day.

Can a homeowner fly a POW/MIA flag?

Yes. There is no restriction on private citizens flying the POW/MIA flag. Follow the same display rules as government buildings: American flag in the position of honor, POW/MIA flag below or beside it on a shorter or equal-height pole.

What size POW/MIA flag should I buy?

Match it to the American flag. If the American flag is 3x5 feet, the POW/MIA flag should also be 3x5 feet or slightly smaller. This keeps the display balanced and follows proper protocol.