Why is the American Flag flown lower than the other flags at Nautical Park on Merrick Road?
A. According to long-standing maritime tradition, the gaff is the position of honor on a ship and thus is where the U.S. Flag should be flown. Yachting organizations and nautical parks, following nautical tradition, erect land-based, gaff-rigged flagpoles and fly the U.S. Flag at the gaff as well: The gaff is considered to be the position of honor. This arrangement is used by several municipalities with parks located by the water, including the Village of Southampton. Click here for more information as provided by the U.S. Power Squadron.
