History Of Flag Display cases

The tradition of presenting a shadow box to a retiring sailor is born of early British custom. 

 In the days of sail, when Briton ruled the seas, it was considered bad luck for a sailor,

upon final departure from a ship, to allow his shadow to hit the pier before

he himself departed the ship.  

In order to ensure no such misfortune would befall their shipmate, the crew would

construct a box of the finest timber and place within it all things that reflected his

accomplishments. 

 Only then could the man, with the “SHADOW” of himself in hand, safely depart the

ship and go ashore once and for all.  

Presentation - "On behalf of your shipmates, we present you this shadow box. 

With the shadow box is the military person’s most honored and cherished possessions

, including the flag of the United States of America.

John P. Murray III 

How to Display a Flag in a Case

A U.S. flag will be placed in a display case or frame if it is historic, if it was used during the funeral of a military veteran or mortally wounded soldier, or if it complements a display of medals or other patriotic items. Historic flags usually are displayed unfurled and behind glass in a traditional frame.

Flags used during funerals are folded ceremoniously and can be displayed in a smaller, triangular case. Flags that complement other items should be displayed in accordance with flag etiquette.