Knowing everything about flags is our job, not yours. You may find the following definitions helpful as you browse our catalog. We are happy to help you find the perfect product for your needs; please call us at 1-800-368-3524 (or 703-751-2411) for clarification or assistance.

Links:
The U.S. Government’s Official Web Portal 
Veterans of Foreign Wars 

Definitions:

Heading and Grommet: The standard finish for United States Flags. A white or cream-colored band is sewn on the left side of the flag with brass grommets at the top and bottom corners. Ties or snaps secure the flag to the flagpole.
Pole Hem: A hem is sewn on the left side or the top edge of the flag, allowing the flagpole to slide through the hem. A tab or screw to secures the flag in place.
Pole Hem and Fringe: A finish used on military and government flags and banners in formal settings. A pole hem is sewn on the flag or banner, and a fringe (usually gold) is sewn to the edges. The private sector also uses fringe on its flags and banners.
Guidon: A unit identification marker for the branches of the military. Design and construction are different for each branch of the military.
Streamers: Reflecting unit awards and campaigns, streamers hang from the head of military organization flags.
Flagstaff or Staff: The staff on which a flag, guidon or streamer is carried or displayed. Flagstaff lengths are specific for different uses and levels of the government and military. The flagstaff evolved from a weapon known as a lance. The point of the lance is retained on modern flagstaffs to be used as a weapon in defense of the flag.
Flagstaff Head or Finial: A decorative ornament atop a flagstaff, often in the shape of an eagle, spearheads, acorn, or ball.
Cord: A piece of twisted rayon or polyester used to decorate the flagstaff.
Tassel: A decorative twisted thread.

State and Territorial Flags in Order by Entry to the Union

When displaying multiple State and Territorial Flags at the same time, place each in order of their entry into the Union.