I get this question fairly regularly. What flags should we carry in the upcoming parade?
A school has strong ties to multiple services. Cadets graduate into different branches. The natural thought is: “Let’s represent all of them in the color guard.”
That’s where things go off track. The issue isn’t respect, it’s about authority.
The Common Mistake
Most teams build their Color guard based on affiliation:
- “Our graduates go into the United States Coast Guard.”
- “We work closely with federal agencies.”
- “We want to recognize all the services.” This one is the most common.
That logic feels right—but it’s incomplete.
Color guards are not built on affiliation. They are built on representation. Also read here.
What ROTC and Service Academies Actually Do
Cadets in programs like Reserve Officers’ Training Corps or at service academies such as the United States Coast Guard Academy are authorized to carry service colors.
Why?
Because they are operating as recognized representatives of that service—right now.
They are not honoring a future.
They are functioning under current authority.
Why That Doesn’t Apply to Everyone Else
A maritime college, public safety academy, or civilian institution—even one with strong pipelines into military or federal service—does not automatically have that authority.
Those connections are affiliation, not representation.
And that distinction matters.
You represent who you are—not where you’re going.
What the Color Guard Should Reflect
If the team represents the school, then the Color guard should reflect the school.
That means:
- The United States flag
- The institutional (school) color
Not a collection of future career paths.
Not a mix of loosely connected organizations.
A clear, accurate identity.
Why This Standard Exists
When teams start adding flags based on affiliation, the system breaks down quickly:
- One service becomes two
- Two becomes five
- Then come federal departments, agencies, and local organizations
Before long, the Color guard stops representing anything clearly.
This isn’t about limiting recognition—it’s about maintaining meaning and integrity.
The Bottom Line
Carrying a service color is not a gesture.
It is a statement of authority and representation.
If that authority doesn’t exist, the flag should not be carried.
Download the Standard
For a complete doctrinal breakdown, including definitions and application:
ICS DCS 12-606 – Authority to Carry Service Colors: Affiliation vs. Representation