Proper display of the American flag

A friend tells me she has contacted her Alaska State representative several times regarding proper display of the American flag at the new LIO building at Minnesota and Benson in Anchorage. She also inquired as to why the Alaska State flag is not on display at that State of Alaska building. When she received no response from her representative, she sent an e-mail inquiry to Governor Bill Walker. She did receive a response stating Walker’s office would investigate and follow up with her. Governor Walker’s office did not follow up.

The Flag Code states it is the universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on stationary flag staffs in the open. However, when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.

The American flag at the LIO building is left on display 24 hours. Although there is lighting at the base of the flag, it is directed toward bushes – not directed to appropriately illuminate the flag.

There are several issues here. Why isn’t the American flag treated with respect and properly displayed and illuminated? Why isn’t the State of Alaska flag displayed? Why don’t legislators respond to citizen requests? Why doesn’t Governor Bill Walker follow through and respond to a citizen’s request? Is the respect and dignity with which our flag should be displayed irrelevant to these Alaska employees? Is the respect and dignity with which their constituents should be treated also irrelevant?

Jacqueline Fries, Palmer