As people make plans to celebrate the Fourth of July with family and friends, the fun of a long weekend can sometimes overshadow the real purpose of the holiday. It’s a time to recognize when America declared independence on July 4, 1776, from England.An important symbol of freedom for the United States of America is our flag — the red, white and blue stars and stripes.While discount stores sell tablecloths, napkins and paper plates decorated with flags for this occasion, there are still proper ways to use our country’s symbol.The U.S. Flag Code specifies how to show respect for our flag. There are details in it that many of us don’t need to know, but here are some general guidelines:oRaise the flag briskly; lower it slowly and ceremoniously.oFly the flag outdoors only between sunrise and sunset, unless you illuminate it during the dark hours.oWhen lowering the flag, do not let it touch the ground or touch any other object.oAlthough you should generally display the flag every day, do not display it during a rainstorm or a heavy snowfall unless it is an all-weather flag.oWhen displaying it on the same pole with another flag (e.g. a state flag) always position the U.S. flag at the top.oNever carry the flag flat or horizontally, but always aloft and free. That our flag is flying free is as much a symbol of our country as is the flag itself. When displaying the flag against a wall, vertically or horizontally, position the stars at the top, to the observer's left.oClean and mend a flag when necessary. If it is no longer fit to serve as a symbol of our country, destroy it in a dignified manner. Contact a local veterans’ group to inquire about flag retirement ceremonies.Just remember that properly using our country’s flag is a way of showing respect for everything it has seen us through — from the American Revolution through today. The Rock County Star Herald Editorial Board is comprised of Roger Tollefson, Rick Peterson, Lori Ehde and Sara Quam.