This is a doctrinal bleed-over problem: honor guard practice migrating into regulation drill competition.
The two environments are not the same mission set.
Finial Orientation During Uncasing and Casing
Army JROTC follows the TC to the letter. Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard JROTC follow the same guidance with MCO 5060.20 guidon techniques. Air and Space Forces JROTC follow the same guidance with AFPAM 34-1203 guidon techniques.
Why the Navy and Coast Guard Use the Marine Corps Order for Drill and Ceremonies
Let’s dive into the history of drill and ceremonies manuals and see the progression of drill and ceremonies for the US Marine Corps (USMC), US Navy (USN), and US Coast Guard (USCG).
When the Flag Determines the Staff Manual
Across the United States, military and cadet units routinely conduct physical training runs with a unit guidon.
This practice is normal, historically grounded, and fully supported by service drill doctrine.
When the Flag Is Altered to Fit the Display
A recent public display featured an oversized United States flag modified with multiple circular openings cut directly through the fabric to reduce wind load and prevent structural failure.
Rifle Volleys: When Ceremony Leaves Doctrine Behind
Each year, across the United States, rifle volleys echo on Memorial Day, presidential birthdays, and civic remembrance ceremonies. The sound is familiar. It is also, in most cases, not doctrinally authorized.
How Should CAP Cadets Respond When CAP Guidance Differs from USAF Doctrine?
Recently, I received a very good question regarding Civil Air Patrol cadets and if they can circumvent the CAP written drill and ceremonies standards that do not follow USAF doctrine. At first it makes sense to skip over bad CAP writing and opt to follow the parent service doctrine. However, that’s not the way things work. Let’s get into this.
There Is No Such Thing as “Draping an Urn”
Not long ago, I received a comment attempting to justify a photograph of a folded flag partially unfolded and draped over an urn.
The Dignity of Dissent: When Logistics Overshadow Respect for Fallen Heroes
In the somber process of bringing home our fallen service members, every detail matters. The sight of a flag-draped casket signifies the highest honor a nation can bestow. However, a modern logistical trend is starting to violate the very protocols meant to protect that dignity: the practice of draping the interment flag over the shipping container holding the casket, rather …
Who Does Your Color Guard Represent?
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.