Have you ever seen a backward American flag patch on a service uniform? While it might seem like a mistake, this is actually the correct way to present the flag in some circumstances. But why is the flag backward intentionally? Although it may sound complicated at first, there is a very good reason to reverse the flag on American uniforms — here’s a look at why it’s done and how it began.
A Sign of Honor
So, why is the flag backward on uniforms? One reason is that it places the blue field of stars in the highest position of honor, which is a rule that other high honors also follow. The location considered the highest position can vary based on its presentation. On moving objects like a marching soldier, the highest position will always be the front, not the back. This is why the flag is backward on the right shoulder and not the left — the stars are already in the front on that side when the wearer moves forward.
Replicating a Flying Flag
There is a more important and symbolic reason why the flag is backward on uniforms. When the blue faces forward and the red and white stripes are positioned behind, it appears like a flag flying in the wind. The Department of Defense’s standardization and authorization lists this as the reason for placing the union to the observer’s right — to ensure every uniform produces this visual effect. However, if the blue field isn’t in the front, then it would appear like the wearer was retreating.
The tradition of wearing flags backward on American uniforms is for more than just aesthetic appeal. This practice originated during the Civil War when the flag bearers for cavalry and infantry units would carry the stars and stripes into battle. When the bearers moved forward, it would cause the flag to stream back in response, which is what flag patches on uniforms replicate. After the Civil War ended, the spirit of the flag bearers continued to live on backward flags on American military uniforms.
Additionally, the backward flag patches served a purpose in combat — other than replicating a flowing flag. During joint deployments, paratroopers initially wore them so American soldiers could distinguish themselves from other nations. The patches were also worn so US soldiers could tell each other apart from their adversaries while behind enemy lines.
Other Instances of Reversed Flags
Now that you know why the flag is backward on uniforms, you’ll also start seeing it in other places. The reversed flag is applied to other moving objects, including US airplanes, trucks, and other vehicles.
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