U.S. Flag Patch on Military Uniforms Why Does It Look Backwards? Seeing a U.S. flag patch on a military uniform with the stars toward the front can seem unusual at first. This placement follows the military convention that the flag should appear to be flying forward as the wearer moves. Learn why the flag looks backwards from the viewer's perspective, how right-shoulder placement affects its orientation, and how military flag patches differ from the way an American flag is normally displayed. https://rushpatch.com/blogs/news/the-military-flag-patches-what-these-are-and-how-to-wear-them-guide