Why the American Flag Looks Backward on Uniforms
Ever noticed the U.S. flag appears backward on military or police uniforms? It’s not a mistake — it’s symbolic.
According to Army regulations, the flag’s stars should always face forward, as if it’s flying in the wind while the wearer moves ahead. This gives the appearance of an advancing, not retreating, flag — a nod to honor and forward motion.
The tradition dates back to the Civil War and was officially adopted in military uniforms in 2003. As one Redditor put it: “The stars never retreat.”
