I wanted to explain the two types of doctrinal authority in the US military and use the flag spreader debate as a case study.
Naval Flagstaffs, Mast Systems, and Ceremonial Display
The Navy does not have protocol specialists assigned to units like the Army, Air Force, and Space Force do. That’s understandable since protocol is not necessary at sea a majority of the time. However, giving this responsibility to a Petty Officer aboard ship as an extra duty without the Navy providing clear guidance is a recipe for problems.
Color Guard Without the Uniform: What Changes—and What Does Not
Across the country, cadet programs and organizations are facing a common restriction:uniforms cannot be worn. For many, this has created uncertainty: Let’s be clear: Yes, you can still present the Colors.No, the standard has not changed. The Misconception There is a growing assumption that without the uniform, the rules relax. They do not. The uniform is a supporting element. It …
The Flagstaff Is Not “Just a Flagstaff”
One of the most persistent misconceptions I encounter is the statement:
“A flagstaff is just a flagstaff.”
This idea usually appears when someone is using a silver aluminum or gold telescoping pole and attempts to justify it for a military color guard.
At first glance, the logic seems simple: if it holds a flag, it should be acceptable.
That logic is incorrect.
They’re Not Just Doing It Wrong—They’re Using the Wrong System
In recent years, an increasing number of Air Force color guard performances—particularly within Technical School, the United States Air Force Academy, and Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps—have shown a consistent pattern: movements that appear deliberate and “ceremonial,” yet are fundamentally incorrect within their training environment.
Ceremonial Integrity and Authority — Why Military and First Responder Color Guards Must Remain Separate
This article is written as a thought-leadership piece designed to bridge the gap between respect for first responders and the non-negotiable standards of military protocol. Its goal is not to diminish anyone’s service, but to defend institutional identity and restore ritual integrity in public ceremonies.
“That Rifle Saved His Life”
I have a story for you. It’s a true story that has a little embellishment with fictional names. The quote comes from the father of a cadet.
When the Conversation Isn’t About the Flag Anymore
Large-scale flag displays at athletic events often generate the same recurring responses when standards are addressed.
When the Manual Is Silent: Why You Must Look Beyond Your Service’s D&C Manual
There is a persistent and damaging belief in the drill and ceremonies community:
“If it’s not in our manual, it’s not authorized.”
That belief is wrong—and it is directly responsible for the kind of performance deficiencies we continue to see across military, cadet, and first responder color guards.
“You Got Peanut Butter on my Chocolate!” and the POW/MIA Novelty Flag Argument
“You got chocolate in my peanut butter!” The old commercial for Reece’s Peanut Butter cups was about “it’s all how you look at it” and was fun.