Flags of the United States Armed Forces

[6] Vessels of the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration display the jack of the United States from the jackstaff.

[7] Originally the First Navy Jack was displayed, a design containing the thirteen red and white stripes; while some maintain that it was superimposed by an uncoiled rattlesnake and the motto "Dont tread on me" [sic], reminiscent of the Gadsden flag.

However, all warships were directed to fly the First Navy Jack, including the disputed rattlesnake and motto, since the duration of the War on Terror in 2002.

[8] On February 21, 2019, the Chief of Naval Operations directed that U.S. Navy warships fly the U.S. jack again beginning on June 4, 2019.

Certain staff and non-line officers have unique colors: white with blue stars for non-command Navy admirals,[13] while Army chaplains and medical generals use ecclesiastical purple and maroon backgrounds, respectively.

Not having made an official design until 1777, numerous distinct flags were carried into battle by American forces.