This subject is one of the most common sources of confusion in Color Guard training, especially in scholastic and cadet programs. The root problem is that people treat flags as decoration, local pride, or a “nice touch,” when in reality every color carried in formation is a public statement of authority and representation.
When “Joint” Does Not Mean Authorized
Recently, Virginia elected a new Governor. The image at the top of the page was shared on the VA State Defense Force Facebook page. There are many things wrong and here is what I noted on social media based on this image
Ceremonial Mourning, Authority, and the Proper Use of Bunting
When a public official or community leader dies, the desire to honor them is immediate and sincere. For first responder agencies in particular, this instinct often manifests through visible symbols of mourning—flags, apparatus positioning, uniforms, and, increasingly, bunting.
The Proffer
It’s not short for “professor”, a proffer is one who stands by with awards or certificates and hands them to the presenter. In the U.S. Air Force and other branches that follow similar protocol the term for the individual who assists the presenter during a formal military award or retirement ceremony is called the Proffer. Their role. The following is …
“To All Who Shall See These Presents, Greeting:”
The phrase “To all who shall see these presents, greeting:” is a traditional legal and diplomatic statement that dates back centuries. In the context of military awards and commissions, it serves as a formal opening to a document of great importance. Here’s a breakdown of its meaning: Essentially, the phrase is a formal announcement to the world that the enclosed …
First Responders, the Pledge, Anthem, and Taps
It’s a grey area and I am writing this for clarification based on a message I received. What do first responders do when the Pledge of Allegiance or the Star-Spangled Banner are on the itinerary for a ceremony? Let’s go through this. The Situation The message: In lieu of the National Anthem, there was a collective recitation of the Pledge …
All About POW/MIA Flag Protocol
The POW/MIA flag is not authorized to be carried either in a color guard. Read on to find out why.
All About the Color Guard
Please read this article very carefully. The following information is based in regulation drill. Much of the information directly relates to ceremonial unit color guards. Even though this is not about ceremonial drill (honor guard), color guards are ceremonial in nature and all must adhere to the standards. Written in 2018, updated in 2022 for clarity. Definitions Who is Represented? …
What’s Wrong With This Honor Guard Picture?
This US Air Force photo shows Airmen carrying cremated remains of veterans for final honors. It is a touching and respectful ceremony and one in which all who participated can be proud. However, there is a slight problem. The Airmen bearing the colors should be on the right of the Airmen bearing the urns. Also, this is not how the …








