Half-staff

All About The Flag and Color

DrillMasterAsk DrillMaster, Honor Guard, Instructional 2 Comments

This article used to be All About Flag Sizes that I wrote back in 2013 but I felt it needed expanding. Nomenclatures The Outside Flag The Indoor-Outdoor Color Fringe See also: To Fringe or Not to Fringe, That is the Question and Flag, Fringe, and Finial Theory. A flag does not have fringe when it is flown from a stationary …

The Flagstaff Spade Marker

DrillMasterColor Guard, Color Guard/Color Team, Honor Guard, Honor Guard Training, Instructional 10 Comments

The Flagstaff/Guidon Staff The guidon staff comes in three sizes for the US military: 7′ – for colors to post ONLY (USAF only – these staffs are NEVER carried in any other circumstance, ever) 8′ – for guidon flags and 3′ x 4′ colors (all services) 9′ – for 4’4″ x 5’6″ flags (Air Force, as of 2019, it used …

The Military Hand Salute

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This article originally published on Dec 30, 2014 under the title, When in Doubt, Salute! This is the second update and rearrangement of information to help everyone understand this subject better. How to Salute The services have slightly different techniques. One technique is followed by the Army and Air Force. The middle finger is placed on the corner of the …

Color Guard Performance “Factors”

DrillMasterColor Guard, Color Guard/Color Team, Commentary, Honor Guard, Instructional, Protocol and Flag Leave a Comment

As much as I am a “by-the-book” Airman, I know there are times when certain organizations must adapt and overcome and follow the spirit of the regulations rather than the letter. Speaking of letters. Below, is the text of an email from a friend of mine, MSgt Vincent Liddle of Warren Central High School MCJROTC. I was surprised to wake …

The Guidon Staff Repair Kit

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“The best thing since sliced bread.” That phrase is used so often that it usually loses its meaning. Until now – and it’s only available from MIL-BAR! The Guidon Staff Replacement Kit IS the best thing since sliced bread. Well, it may be a little lower than the number one spot, but it’s on the list! Maintenance is Key! Flagstaff …