Marines and a sailor salute the American flag during the “National Anthem” at the Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center, Phoenix, Sept. 10, 2015. Photo by Sgt. Justin Boling. The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement. Image: DoD
By: FEDweek StaffThe Department of Veterans Affairs has introduced a new policy restricting the display of flags at its facilities that it says is meant to align with DoD guidelines on which flags are permitted for public display, and by extension which are not.
Under the new directive, only specific flags are authorized at VA facilities, such as the US flag, state and territorial flags, military service flags, VA flags, and official U.S. agency flags. Additionally, POW/MIA flags, Senior Executive Service flags, military command unit flags, and burial flags for honoring Veterans and reservists are allowed. The policy, through notable exclusion, prohibits display of the Pride flag which has rankled some GOP lawmakers that have criticized it as a woke distraction, and possible deterrent to seeking care for some.
Made some changes to simplify the flag display policy across the department, which now has a singular focus: serving the needs of Veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors. pic.twitter.com/fVaniPFd1a
— VA Secretary Doug Collins (@SecVetAffairs) February 12, 2025
The VA said the policy applies to all its properties, including offices, medical centers, parking lots and government vehicles; Exceptions include museum exhibits, historical displays, grave sites, art, and similar settings where unauthorized flags may appear as long as they do not imply official VA endorsement.
The policy replaces a May 2024 VA memorandum on Pride Month flags but does not alter existing regulations for national cemeteries. “All Veterans and VA beneficiaries will always be welcome at VA facilities to receive the benefits and services they have earned under the law,” stated VA Secretary Doug Collins. “This policy will simplify flag displays while focusing on serving Veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors.”
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