Why is the Flag Backwards on Military Uniforms?
When we see military personnel wearing their uniforms, we often notice that the flag or coat of arms is worn backwards. This may seem strange or confusing to many of us, but there is a significant reason behind this tradition. In this article, we will explore the history and significance of wearing the flag backwards on military uniforms.
History of the Flag on Military Uniforms
The tradition of wearing the flag on military uniforms dates back to the 17th century. During this time, soldiers wore a small version of their country’s flag on their sleeves or coats to identify themselves as part of a specific regiment or unit. The flag was typically worn on the left shoulder, facing forward, to show loyalty and allegiance to their country.
Why is the Flag Backwards on Military Uniforms?
So, why is the flag worn backwards on military uniforms? The answer lies in the custom of heraldry. In heraldry, a shield or coat of arms is typically displayed with the honor point (the top-right corner) facing the viewer. This is because the honor point is considered the most important part of the coat of arms, as it represents the family’s or unit’s most prestigious achievements.
When the flag is worn on a military uniform, it is displayed in the same way as a coat of arms. The honor point of the flag is placed on the left shoulder, facing away from the viewer. This means that the flag is worn backwards, with the canton (the top-left corner) facing towards the wearer.
Other Reasons for Wearing the Flag Backwards
While the custom of heraldry is the primary reason for wearing the flag backwards, there are other historical and practical reasons as well:
- Practicality: Wearing the flag backwards made it easier for soldiers to move about without their flags getting tangled or caught on obstacles.
- Uniformity: Wearing the flag backwards ensured that all soldiers in a unit wore their flags in the same way, creating a sense of unity and cohesion.
- Tradition: The practice of wearing the flag backwards was simply passed down through generations, becoming an integral part of military tradition and etiquette.
Different Ways of Wearing the Flag
While the majority of military uniforms wear the flag backwards, there are some exceptions:
- Naval Uniforms: In the United States Navy, the flag is worn facing forward on naval uniforms.
- Special Forces: Some special forces units, such as the US Special Forces, wear their flags facing forward on their uniforms.
- Historical Reproductions: Some military reenactment groups and historical societies wear flags facing forward on their uniforms to maintain historical accuracy.
Table: Different Ways of Wearing the Flag
| Military Branch/Unit | Flag Orientation |
|---|---|
| US Army | Backwards |
| US Navy | Forward |
| US Air Force | Backwards |
| US Marine Corps | Backwards |
| US Special Forces | Forward |
| Historical Reproductions | Forward |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the flag is worn backwards on military uniforms due to the custom of heraldry, which dictates that the honor point of a coat of arms or shield face away from the viewer. While there are other practical and historical reasons for this tradition, the primary reason remains the same. The next time you see a military personnel wearing their uniform, take a closer look at the flag – it may be facing backwards, but it’s a symbol of their loyalty and allegiance to their country and unit.
