How Montanans Can Have a Flag Flown Over the U.S. Capitol

Have you ever seen a flag in someone's home that was flown over the United States Capitol and assumed it was something reserved for dignitaries or high-profile figures? You’re not alone in thinking that, but it’s actually not the case. This special honor is available to any American, including people right here in Montana.

My Grandfather’s Story

When my grandfather, Jessie Vail, passed away on November 1, 2020, I knew I wanted to honor his memory in a meaningful way. He was a U.S. Navy veteran and a devoted pastor. I’d heard that flags could be flown over the Capitol for veterans, so I started looking into it. I reached out to a few places, but the answers were all over the place until I got in touch with my local Senator’s office.

They pointed me to the website of my local Congressperson, where I found a simple form to fill out. In less than 10 minutes, I had placed my order and paid the fee. Exactly one year later, on November 1, 2021, a flag was flown over the United States Capitol in honor of my grandfather. Just days after that, it arrived in the mail, along with a certificate marking the occasion.

A Tradition That Began in 1937

This isn’t a new program. In fact, it started back in 1937 when a Member of Congress requested a flag that had flown over the Capitol. Since then, it’s grown into what’s now called the Capitol Flag Program, with over 100,000 flags flown every year for Americans across the country.

How You Can Request a Flag

If you live in Montana and want to request a flag for someone special, or even just to commemorate a significant event, you can start by contacting  your representative or senator to obtain a flag flown over the Capitol.

What the Process Looks Like

Once you’ve received the form from your representative or senator, here’s what to expect: Choose the size of the flag you’d like. Write a few words about who the flag is for and why, select the date you want it flown. Pay a small fee (this goes to the House Office Supply Store) and then submit your request.

What Happens Behind the Scenes

After you’ve submitted your request, things start moving behind the scenes. Your flag is tagged with a “pink card” that identifies it, then it’s sent to the Architect of the Capitol’s Flag Office, yes, the same office that helps maintain the entire Capitol complex.

READ MORE: How To Properly Dispose of an American Flag in Montana

On the date you selected (as long as it’s not Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Day), someone from the Flag Office will fly your flag. Afterward, a staff member from your local Representative’s or Senator’s office will pick it up, along with an official certificate of authenticity. Then everything is mailed back to you.

A Meaningful Gift for Any Occasion

Whether it’s to honor a loved one’s military service, celebrate a retirement, or simply mark a personal milestone, having a flag flown over the Capitol is a meaningful gesture. And the best part? It’s something every Montanan can do.

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If you’ve ever thought about having a flag flown over the United States Capitol but assumed it was out of reach, now you know it’s absolutely possible, and easier than you might think.