Wow, that’s a bit presumptuous of me to say that the AFMAN is wrong when it comes to the Right Face in Marching, isn’t it? You would think, but there’s a very good reason why I am writing this. While initially reading through AFPAM 346-1203, you may skim across the information and accept it at face value, however, if you look deeper into the Face in Marching, you will see there is a problem.
It’s a strange movement, but has a very good purpose. Essentially, it is a flank from a halt. For those of you who execute a Colors Reverse (an Army move that reverses a color guard) with flanks, you need to read this: The Colors Reverse and Countermarch How To.
The Army Face in Marching
4-15. FACING IN MARCHING Facings in Marching from the Halt are important parts of the following movements: alignments, column movements, inspecting Soldiers in ranks, and changing from Normal Interval to Double Interval or Double Interval to Normal Interval. a. For instructional purposes only, the command Face to the Right (Left) in Marching, MARCH may be used to teach the individual to execute the movement properly. On the preparatory command Face to the Right (Left) in Marching, shift the weight of the body without noticeable movement onto the right foot. On the command of execution MARCH, pivot to the right (left) on the ball of the right foot (90 degrees) and step off in the indicated direction with the left foot. Execute the pivot and step in one count, and continue marching in the new direction. (See paragraph 4-5c and Chapter 3, paragraph 3-1a.)
TC 3-21.5 20 January 2012
From the text above, we can easily understand that the face-in-march (my term, abbreviated F-I-M) is only executed with the pivot on the right foot at a full 90 degrees to the right or left with the left foot kicked out in either direction. This is what the image at the top of the article shows.
The text then goes on to describe the 45-degree half-right or half-left F-I-M, which is required for a column movement from a halt with two or more squads/elements. More on that in a moment.
The Marine Corps Face as in Marching
This applies to Marines, Sailors, and Coasties.
The MCO does not define a F-I-M, specifically. It refers to it as a Face as in Marching for Close and Extend and also for mass parade movement. It also mentions an Oblique in Marching. However, the F-I-M explanation is presented in Section 2, paragraph 12.
To March to the Flank. The purpose of this movement is to march the entire unit to the right (left) for a short distance. It may be executed when halted or while marching at either quick time or double time. The command is “By the Right (Left) Flank, MARCH.” When marching the command of execution is given as the foot in the direction of the movement strikes the deck. a. From a Halt (1) For right flank, turn 90 degrees to the right by pivoting on the ball of the right foot and (using a cross over step) stepping off with the left foot 30 inches in the new direction of march. (2) For left flank, turn 90 degrees to the left by pivoting on the ball of the right foot and stepping off 30 inches with the left foot in the new direction of march.
MCO 5060.20 15 May 2019
For either direction, once again, the pivot is on the right foot. Why? Because we step off with the left foot for every move we perform except for Right Step where we move laterally and do not face the direction of march.
The AF Face in Marching
Here is where we get into a strange explanation that does not make sense when you put it into practice.
3.18. Face in Marching. The command is Right (Left) Flank, MARCH. On the command MARCH, the Airman executes a 90-degree pivot on the ball of the right (left) foot and, at the same time, steps off with the left (right) foot in the new direction with coordinated arm swing. The pivot and step are executed in one count, and proper dress, cover, interval, and distance are maintained.
AFMAN 36-2203 19 June 2018
The image below shows what the AFMAN describes for a Right Flank from the halt. Why would this be different from the other services? There isn’t a good answer to this question.
Now, I’m aware that there are service differences. For instance, all of the services used to execute an Oblique but the Army and Air Force stopped using it decades ago while the Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard still use it. Another instance is Column of Files (Twos) from the Right/Left. That’s the Marine Corps and Air Force term for the move, but the MCO left this move out in the 2019 edition. The Army calls it File from the Right/Left.
The Duck Walk
Before we continue, let me throw this in the mix: the USAF “Duck Walk” is used for in-ranks inspections. If the above is to be followed, pivoting on the left foot and stepping to the right with the right foot, then why is the Duck Walk’s first pivot and following steps explained to look like this?
Why isn’t the first pivot on the left foot? Because it’s not supposed to be, that’s why. We don’t pivot on the left. Let’s continue.
The Problem Explained
If all you have to do is call “Column Right, MARCH!” while halted, and have the flight step off, we have a big problem. All of the element leaders, let’s say we have four elements, will step off on the right foot, but the rest of the flight, let’s say we have four ranks (a total of 16 members) will step off on their left.
Shown below are the foot steps of the first and second ranks. All of the element leaders (first rank) are executing what the AFMAN says is correct, but that creates a right foot lead off when the rest of the flight steps of, correctly, with the left foot. Now we have the first rank out of step with the rest of the flight.
To get around this difficulty, the AFMAN has the following:
4.11.4. On the command MARCH, element leaders begin the movement by executing a face in marching for a column left. For a column right, element leaders take one 24-inch step forward, then execute the movement.
AFMAN 36-2203 19 June 2019
Working Jointly
We, in the US military are supposed to be able to fit together in war fighting and we display that ability when march. While there are some commands that can throw off the services (“By the Right Flank” called on multiple feet vs. “Right Flank” called on two right steps), that can be remedied but technique is another matter.
It’s an assumption on my part and I hope you can at least see my point here. Performing a move completely differently from the other services isn’t in our best interests and this can be easily cleared up.
It doesn’t make sense to have to long-standing drill and ceremonies manuals and then have the AF come along and say, “Nah, we’ll do it this way.” I’m looking at you, Space Force. Don’t make me write an article about you. Now, let’s look at this from an historic perspective.
A Brief History
Why the US military cannot use one standard is a bit confusing. We started with one standard for the Revolutionary War under Baron von Steuben’s Blue Book and during the Civil War era, different generals began writing slightly different standards for rifle manipulation, mainly. The differences continued from there.
The first Air Force Manual for drill and ceremonies was AFM 50-14, dated June 1956. I have both the initial manual and the revision. Both have the following paragraph on page 46. Remember, the USAF became a service out of the Army in September of 1947 and relied heavily on both Army Field Manual 22-5 (now TC 3-21.5) and the NAVMC 2691 (now the MCO 5060.20) manual for drill and ceremonies.
To Face in Marching. The facings in marching are an important part of movements as column right, close, take interval, and extend. For facings to the right or left in marching, the command, By the Right (Left) Flank, MARCH, may be used.
To face to the right or left in marching from a halt, turn to the right or left flank on the ball of the right foot at the command of execution. At the same time step off with the left foot in the new direction. [emphasis mine]
AFM 50-14 and AFM 50-14 (Revision) June 1956
Performance Report Bullet Needed in ’92?
The same text is used in the 1963 version of AFM 50-14. But the 1992 version, AFR 50-14, has the change! I cannot find any edition of the manual after 1963 version to before 1992 version, so I am not positive that the change was made exactly in ’92. In any case, it was made. Why?
The USAF history is relatively short, however we are losing our history. Just because you might have an idea doesn’t mean it’s appropriate to change a standard. Marching may not seem like a big deal from where you sit but let me assure you that it is a very big deal. Please read, The Benefits of Military Drill.
Wrap Up
Standards matter. The F-I-M is not simply a flank from a halt. It is a precise movement that requires coordination with the rest of the formation when different elements are executing different movements simultaneously.
Drill and ceremonies is not just something an individual can flippantly make up as they go. The impact is far too great. There must be sound reasoning behind a proposed change (I’m looking at you, Civil Air Patrol, Sea Cadets, and Young Marines.)
Now that the problem has been identified, let’s clean it up and reword the paragraph back to the original language. While we are at it, a definition could be added to the MCO to not only name the Face as in Marching (“as” not required), but also explain the Oblique in Marching (which the Army identified as the Half-right (left) Face in Marching.
Before we get into the theories, let’s all just take a deep breath and not get reactionary. Completely dismissing or wrapping yourself around the axle into any of these theories without due consideration of the facts is not going to do anyone any good. As with all myths there are several truths weaved into this conspiracies. The fact is we have all been lied to, and it does no good to attack the messengers trying to educate people to their plight.
I know. Conspiracy theories! Wacko! Tin-foil hat-wearing fool! Yada-yada-yada. If you are not open minded or already know everything, please move along.
I originally wrote this in January of 2021. This update, January 2024, is a complete rewrite, rearrangement, update, and includes additional information from my colleague, DeVaughn Simper, vexillologist.
The Theories
Fringe on the flag defaces it and suspends the Constitution.
State and Territory flags are also defaced by adding gold colored fringe.
The gold cord and tassels adds to the defacement.
Flag Dimension Theory. Any size other than the 1:1.9 ratio suspends the Constitution.
Flag Orientation Theory. Vertical display suspends the Constitution.
Finial Theory. This has something to do with signaling a court is not following Constitutional law but admiralty or court martial law.
This is for the American, State, and Territory Flags
The theory is that the gold fringe defaces the flag of the United States of America suspends the Constitution. I’m not so quick to make that conclusion, but I do understand how this thinking came about: judgments based on very narrow research.
If you do wider research, you can find a theory that states that gold fringe on the US flag means that maritime law is in effect (especially in a court of law) and that set of laws is very different from the law of the land. There is also the connection between the United States, a corporation (HQ in Washington DC) , and the United States of America, the country.
Is it merely an affectation as the US Army states? If you have not read The History of Fringe, please do so now, it’s important.
Historically, fringe was used to keep a flag clean. It generates static electricity which attracts the dirt from the flag material. That’s it.
Now what you need to know is the difference between a flag and a color, this is also important. A color, a flag with specific characteristics, represents the flag, especially for the military.
To make things more interesting, in the ceremonial drill world, for state (federal government) arrival/departure ceremonies, none of the national flags have fringe. This is because many other countries simply forbid fringe while others have elaborate fringe color and length requirements.
The photo above shows an arrival ceremony at the Pentagon for a Japanese dignitary.
Ruhstrat v. People, 185 Ill. 133, 49 L.R.A. 181, 76 Am. St. Rep. 30, 57 N. E. 41
Clarified the “Law of the Flag” in Maritime Law (at sea). Contracts initiated/signed on a ship are subject to the laws of the country whose flag is flying on the ship. This was intended to prevent privateers from unfairly changing venue when contracts came into dispute. No where in the opinion does it state that this translates to land, nor does it mention fringe.
US Attorney General, 34 Ops Atty Gen 83
Attorney General John G. Sargent stated in 1925 (many years before the current Title 4 verbiage). “The fringe does not appear to be regarded as an integral part of the flag, and its presence cannot be said to constitute an unauthorized addition to the design prescribed by statute. An external fringe is to be distinguished from letters, words, or emblematic designs printed or superimposed upon the body of the flag itself. Under the law, such additions might be open to objection as unauthorized; but the same is not necessarily true of the fringe.”
Title 4 “The Flag Code”
The Flag Code was written in 1942 to provide guidelines to the nation regarding the display of the flag, as the people of the time rallied around the flag in the midst of World War. Until this time there were no clear legal definitions of the flag. The Departments of the Army and Navy each had regulations regarding the standardization of the national colors to maintain uniformity. The American Legion spearheaded the project to adopt a flag code.
The Flag Code is part of public law (all caps: 4 U.S. Code CHAPTER 1—THE FLAG) sets the standards for civilian display of the flag. For the text of the code, I trust house.gov and Cornell Law websites and no one else, really. There is too much assumption everywhere else. Let me be clear: the average guy or gal can read a paragraph of the Flag Code and still be perplexed at the meaning of the words just read. But, let’s do the best we can here.
§8. Respect for flag (g) The flag should never have placed upon it, nor on any part of it, nor attached to it any mark, insignia, letter, word, figure, design, picture, or drawing of any nature.
Flag Code
This prohibition above was in the same vein as the following:
(h) The flag should never be used as a receptacle for receiving, holding, carrying, or delivering anything.
Flag Code
The reasoning behind prohibition (h) was that in those days organizations would walk in parades holding the American flag (or their organization’s flag) horizontally to collect donations. People would throw money into the flag.
The intent for prohibition (g) was to have people stop writing, drawing, and attaching symbols to the flag. This was a very common practice, especially for military units. It was not about fringe.
Fringe and the US Military
Army Regulation 840-10 (replaced AR 640-10 in the 1970s), Flags, Guidons, Streamers, Tabards, and Automobile and Aircraft Plates, provides guidance for the US Army regarding every kind of flag the service uses. It replaced Army Regulation 640-10, 1979.
1 – 6. Materials Flags designed primarily for indoor and parade display [DM- these flags are called Indoor/Outdoor flags] will normally be made of banner rayon or heavyweight nylon with rayon fringe. Those designed primarily for outdoor display will be made of nylon-wool or heavyweight nylon without fringe [DM- these flags are called Outside flags].
AR 840-10 (emphasis mine)
(a) 12-inch hoist by 18-inch fly, of approved material, trimmed on three sides with fringe 1 1/2 inches wide. This flag is to be displayed with the individual automobile flag of the President and Vice President of the United States.
AR 840-10 (emphasis mine)
Fringe and Flag Sizes
b. National flags listed below are for indoor display and for use in ceremonies and parades. For these purposes, the flag of the United States will be of rayon banner cloth or heavyweight nylon, trimmed on three sides with golden yellow fringe, 2 1/2 inches wide. It will be the same size or larger than other flags displayed or carried at the same time. (1) 4-foot 4-inch hoist by 5-foot 6-inch fly. This size flag will be displayed with the U.S. Army flag, organizational flag of ACOMs, positional colors (table 3 – 1), the Corps of Cadets’ color, the 1st Battalion, 3d Infantry color, the 4-foot 4-inch by 5-foot 6-inch chapel flag and the individual flag of a general of the Army. (2) 3-foot hoist by 4-foot fly. This size flag will be displayed with the Army Field flag, distinguishing flags, organizational colors, and institutional flags of the same size. It will also be displayed within the offices listed in c below when no other positional or organizational flags are authorized.
AR 840-10 (emphasis and notes mine)
MCO 5060.20, Marine Corps Drill and Ceremonies
p. The use of gold fringe on the U.S. Flag is expressly forbidden for Marine Corps organizations.
MCO 5060.20 (emphasis mine)
The Manual for Courts Martial (2012)
The MCM provides definition for the unauthorized striking of colors (unauthorized surrender). Nowhere does it mention fringe or its implications. Records of the Department of the Army indicate that fringe was used on the National color as early as 1835 and its official use by the Army dates from 1895. There is no record of an act of Congress or Executive Order which either prescribes or prohibits the addition of fringe, nor is there any indication that any symbolism was ever associated with it. The use of fringe is optional with the person or organization displaying the flag.
In contrast, the Navy (Marine Corps and Coast Guard, and, by extension, NOAA and PHS) does not use fringe on their national colors. This is essentially due to the Army and Navy not getting along since the middle 1800s. Documentation does not exist to support the fringe equaling declaration of martial law, that the fringe is a war time only adornment, or any other theory.
Cord and Tassels Theory
Cord and Tassels History
The difference in the flags is the ONLY reason it is here
The cord and tassels were used to tie the color after it was furled (wrapped around the staff) and stored. When the color was unfurled for display or to be carried, the place to store the cord was to tie it around the upper ferrule at the top of the staff just below the finial.
For the military, the gold cord and tassels is not authorized in any display nor for a color guard. However, the red, white, and blue twisted cord and tassels is authorized specifically for the Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard (see MCO 10520.3, AR 840-10 also mentions the RW&B cord).
The Cord and Tassels Now
The cord and tassels is not necessary for a display, but keeping it as a traditional/historic reference, I can definitely understand. Most likely the gold-colored cord is there because it matches the fringe.
Flag Dimensions Theory
Executive Order 10834, signed by President Eisenhower on July 4, 1959, adds the star for the Hawai’ian Islands, gives the dimensions the flag in great detail. Title 4 prescribes the dimensions of the flag in terms of a ratio 1:1.9. This measurement maintains the proportions of the flag regardless of the size.
There are specific sizes stipulated in the Flag Code but the EO mentioned above give the authority for the DoD to make adjustments.
Authorized flag sizes
Dimensions: Executive Order 10834
Hoist (width) of flag 1.0 Fly (length) of flag 1.9 Hoist (width) of Union 0.5385 ( 7/13) Fly (length) of Union 0.76 Diameter of star 0.0616 Width of stripe 0.0769 ( 1/13)
However, it also states that minor changes can be made to the national flag or union jack. FYI, the Jack of the United States/Union Jack is a maritime flag displayed at the bow on the jack staff of a vessel only when moored or anchored.
(a) The Secretary of Defense in respect of procurement for the Department of Defense (including military colors) and the Administrator of General Services in respect of procurement for executive agencies other than the Department of Defense may, for cause which the Secretary or the Administrator, as the case may be, deems sufficient, make necessary minor adjustments in one or more of the dimensions or proportionate dimensions prescribed by this order, or authorize proportions or sizes other than those prescribed by section 3 or section 21 of this order.
EO 10834, Sec. 24 (emphasis mine)
3’x4′?
Why do the Army, Air Force, and Space Force use the 3’x4′ color and not the much more common 3’x5′ color?
Back in the late 1700s and 1800s, Soldiers would bring the flagstaff to horizontal for casing and uncasing the colors. When the color was fully unfurled and the staff completely horizontal, the standard 3’x5′ colors would easily touch the ground since many Soldiers back then were relatively short. The Army fixed the issue by ordering 12″ to be cut from the fly end of the color. Problem solved.
This is just silly. Holy cow. There is no documentation that mentions that changing the orientation of the flag to hang with the stripes down results in suspension of your constitutional rights. The House of Representatives and the Senate, both have a flag hung vertically behind the Speaker and President Pro Tempore seats and have done so for over a century. In that time the constitution has never been suspended. The flag, however, has been suspended both vertically and horizontally everywhere.
The Finial Theory
Also called an ornament, the finial is the device at the top of a flagpole (outside) or a flagstaff (indoor display or carried by a color guard). There are many finials to choose from. Here is the guidance.
Below, where NTP 13B, Flags, Pennants, Honors, Ceremonies, and Customs, is referenced, the information applies only to the US Navy and Coast Guard for the military. Included in the services required to follow this finial guidance are NOAA and the Public Health Service.
The image below and of CPO (R) Hacala, show the older style of interchangeable maritime finials. Now, a less expensive and less complicated system is employed (however, it’s not as impressive, in my view). All of the Navy finials are interchangeable with three small screws that hold the finial on the truck, the flat piece at the finial’s top.
Here, you can see where each finial screws into the truck. I’m holding the upper ferrule.
Spread Eagle
Note- This is different from a Landing Eagle and a Flying Eagle. Many look like a plucked chicken anyway. I don’t know if the direction the eagle is looking toward matters. At right is an antique.
NTP 13B
It is for civilian officials and flag officers whose official gun salute is 19 or more guns. This includes such individuals as the President and Vice President, Secretaries of State, Defense, Army, Navy, Air Force; Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, State Governors, and Service Chiefs. Tables of gun salutes of military officers and civil officials are contained in Chapter 10, U.S. Navy Regulations.
Presidential Color Guard
AR 840-10 and MCO 4400.201 Vol 13 (replaces the Flag Manual)
These state the spread eagle is only for presidential staffs. You will see the Presidential Color Guard most often at the inauguration parade. This team carries the National, Presidential, and Vice-Presidential Colors on 10′ staffs. The President and Vice-president’s colors are positional colors and receive fringe. Since the Army is the senior service, a Soldier carried the National Color and it has fringe.
Halberd
Also from NTP 13B and for the Navy and Coast Guard only. It is “for flag officers whose official gun salute is less than 19 guns, and for civil officials whose gun salute is 11 or more but less than 19 guns. Included in this category are such individuals as the Under and Assistant Secretaries of the Army, Navy, and Air Force; Naval or Military Governors; and flag officers of the Armed Forces other than those of 5-star rank or Service Chiefs.”
See the photo below of MCPO (Ret) Mark Hacala, DrillMaster003, the Ceremonial Specialist for the US Navy Ceremonial Guard at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling. The halberd is in his left hand (picture’s right).
Ball
This is for Army (AR 840-10) outdoor wall mounted flags for advertising or recruiting and NTP 13B states, “For officers of the grade or equivalent grade of Captain in the Navy, and for such diplomatic officials as Career Ministers, Consuls, or First Secretary of an Embassy or Legation.” It’s the standard finial for outdoor flagpoles. Read more about the ball here.
The USAF actually used the ball for color guards but it has not been authorized for use in decades- if you are still using it, stop.
Star
Star
(NTP 13B) For officers of the grade or equivalent grade of Commander in the Navy. This is also the required finial for the Texas flag.
(NTP 13B) For officers below the grade or equivalent grade of Commander in the Navy, and for civil officials for whom honors are prescribed on the occasions of an official visit, but are not the equivalent of those officials listed above. The truck is the flat part of the upper ferrule of a flagstaff. That’s where the finial screws into.
In the photo below, DrillMaster003 is holding a Halberd Finial in his left hand. Below his index and middle fingers is the flat piece where the finial screws into the upper ferrule. That flat piece of the upper ferrule is called the truck. Remove the finial and you have the Flat Truck.
The photo below of MCPO (Ret) Mark Hacala (DrillMaster003) while he was the Ceremonial Specialist at the US Navy Ceremonial Guard in Washington DC. He is holding the halberd and battle-ax finials. Imagine, if you will, the ball alone without the rest of the ornament.
MCPO (Ret) Mark Hacala
Battle-ax
Battle-ax/Battalion Lance
This is used by the Navy and Coast Guard as their standard finial for color guard when working within that service or jointly together. When working with another service the flat, silver Army Spearhead must be used.
In the photo above of MCPO (Ret) Mark Hacala, he is holding the battle-ax in his right hand.
All of the Navy finials mentioned are local purchase only. If they are not deemed necessary for the expenditure of funds, the Army Spearhead is always used.
Spearhead
Army Spearhead/Spade
AR 840-10, MCO 5060.20, and AFI 34-1201, all state that the flat, silver spade is the only finial authorized for color guard flagstaffs and all service guidon staffs.
Roman and Greek Spearheads
Spike, spire, cone, flat- there are many variations to these finials and like the Army spade, they are all derived from ancient pole arms: spears. These are the most common finials for civilian and civil display.
Other Countries
Many other countries have exactly the same concept. They took the spear ends from their ancient pole arms and made them finials. On the left is a finial from Panama.
The Theories Summed Up
Fringe on the national color defaces it and suspends the Constitution.
There isn’t any proof that the Constitution is suspended.
The flag does not have fringe, a color can have fringe.
Fringe on the modern national or state color is not necessary, but is perfectly fine.
Fringe should not be attached to any foreign national flags that your unit may be required to keep on hand. Some countries forbid fringe, others have very long fringe in different colors. The Old Guard in Washington DC carries all foreign national flags without fringe when foreign dignitaries visit.
The gold cord and tassels adds to the defacement.
I don’t appreciate the gold-colored cord, I much prefer red, white, and blue. However, just like the fringe, there’s no proof of defacement.
The finial has something to do with signaling a court is not following Constitutional law but admiralty or court martial (military) law.
All finials used in the US have some sort of history.
There is nothing specific to a finial meaning for civilian/civil display.
Only the US military requires different finials for different occasions or uses.
Flag size other than the 1:1.9 ratio suspends the Constitution.
Not true. Especially with the EO stating that changes can be made when deemed necessary. Size adjustments were necessary for the US military with the 3’x4′ and 4’4″x5’6″ colors being authorized for display and to be carried by a color guard along with the outdoor flag sizes.
The Corporation of the United States
Let’s add another fact to this to help with the possible confusion.
On February 21, 1871, with no constitutional authority to do so, Congress created a separate form of government for the District of Columbia, a ten mile square parcel of land (see, Acts of the Forty-first Congress,” Section 34, Session III, chapters 61 and 62). From https://www.federaljack.com/slavery-by-consent-the-united-states-corporation/. This created the United States, Inc. As a corporation there are all kinds of different rules for a business verses a country.
Notice that when you read the Flag Code, certain statements only pertain to those living in the District of Columbia not to anyone else. A “US Citizen” is one who is based in the District of Columbia and subject to those laws. It’s a deep rabbit hole, but well worth it to investigate.
Conclusion
I still have questions. However, I am much more inclined to follow the guidance of the Flag Code and the Marine Corps Order and not have fringe attached to the American flag/National Color. Flag size and finial type do not have an impact on anything as far as I can tell.
If you have any documented information to add in a positive manner to dispute the information above, I welcome it.
There are spade finials out there that are damaged, I’m sure. Here, you will see the steps to make a spade finial presentable again. I use the word, presentable, because I am using things I have on hand to try to keep costs low.
The chrome finish that the spade had when it was brand new is not going to be brought back to life unless you spend the money to send it to a company that can re-chrome. I use Plano Metal Specialties in Plano, IL for my bayonets. It can be expensive, however.
For everyone’s information, the spade finial is not chromed, it’s just coated in nickel. The next step would be a chrome coating.
Following are the results of a collaboration between DeVaughn Simper, vexillologist at Colonial Flag, and me.
The Process
1.Prep Your Pieces
Wrap painter’s tape around any threads. For the upper or lower ferrule, I put each on a stick and locked the stick into my workbench vice. I even used a clamp to hold the finial by the threads and put the clamp in another vice I have.
2. Wire Brush.
If you have finials that have as much corrosion as the ones pictured at the top of the page, use a wire bristle brush, it really helps to get the crud off and keep the metal smooth.
3. Sandpaper.
Use sandpaper if you want get any nicks or scratches out of the surface and to remove any remaining corrosion. You may want to use something around 1500 grit and maybe even work your way up to remove and sanding lines.
Note: You could use low grit sandpaper and work your way up to high grit and possibly come out with an amazing mirror-like finish like ceremonial guardsmen do with their cheaters. It take hours of work but might be worth it to you. Once you get the mirror shine, you would coat it with several layers of a clear gloss. For complete details on how to accomplish this, read this article: How to Shine Your Heel Taps- “Cheaters”.
4. Rinse and dry completely.
This is essential as it removes any dust particles.
5. Apply Light Coat of Paint
A big thank you to my daughter, who is a cosmetologist, for her help. I learned that this process is similar to professionally painting fingernails. The paint dried much better in the sunlight (UV).
I used what I had on hand. I do not recommend a brush, foam or bristle. They tend to leave lines. I live in FL and we have some pretty decent humidity, even in the winter months. What I learned is that we needed to wait a couple of hours at least for the paint’s moisture to completely disappear.
As a matter of fact, I started putting one coat on in the morning and then one before dinner. I repeated over the next couple of days ending with three and four coats of paint.
Paint
The paint from Culture Hustle
I used the acrylic “chrome paint” from www.culterhustle.com and I am certain that if I would have applied the paint with an airbrush, the results would have been much better.
Sprayed on and brushed on
Next, I wanted to see what the gold paint from Culture Hustle (CH) would do. In the photo at the left, you can see that I painted two pieces the gold color.
The lower ferrule at the bottom I used the Gold paint from CH. It was nice, but spraying it on would have been better. For the middle screw joint, I used gold spray paint that we had. It turned out just as good if not better (more even, no lines). The photos don’t do the painting justice.
I applied three coats of paint letting it dry/cure for hours. Make sure you apply it evenly and ensure that it’s completely dry.
7. Clear Coating.
The first and second coats didn’t really seem to do much but the third and fourth really brought out a nice shine. I used Rustoleum gloss clear coat. It did a great job.
Again, I made sure that I left it for a few hours between coats.
The Results
I would put the metal pieces on a staff and use them, even with the extensive lines from the paint brush on the spade. I do prefer the spray paint and then the clear coat purely due to the even application.
DrillMaster (DM)- I received an email with great color guard questions on formally receiving and replacing the colors and how that might influence the posting of the colors.
Email (Q)- Thank You and feel free to post this as a “From the Inbox” to your various media if desired. “From the Inbox”, I like that!
DM- There are two formal sequences for receiving and replacing the colors.
Q- Can you please give some insight/clarify paragraph 7.32.3 in AFI 36-2203 which states “On command of the senior flag bearer, the guards of the color guard present arms on receiving and parting with the US Flag. After parting with the US flag, the guard is brought to order arms by command of the senior remaining member, who is the right flank of the guard”. What does this mean exactly?
Answer
DM- Great question! This is a technique of receiving and subsequently replacing the colors that were historically kept in the squadron commander’s or first sergeant’s office. This was the standard that the Army developed (see TC 3-21.5 and older versions: FM 22-5) that the AF adopted upon writing the first Air Force regulation on drill and ceremonies and it remains today.
I doubt it has been used since possibly the 1970s or possibly earlier with the services going for more utilitarian options. The advent of installation honor guards and having Airmen assigned to the team required the colors and other equipment to be stored with the team. As far as I know this is more historic than useful anymore. I’ve created several diagrams to help you visualize what happens.
Keep in mind that every military installation has a parade ground (deck). The Air Force has not maintained a strong parade ground opting to have more ceremonies on the flight line or in a hangar, which makes sense.
Teams would march to the parade ground/deck or flight line or at least pile in a van after obtaining the colors.
The Retrieval Sequence
The four team members of the color guard arrive outside of the office where the colors were traditionally stored. They could form up elsewhere and march or form up right there. R = Right Rifle Guard; U = US Color Bearer; A = USAF Color Bearer; L = Left Rifle Guard
Colors Team Arrives to Take the Colors
Next, U and A march inside (column formation) and take the colors from their stands and come back out into formation. The US Color Bearer always leading. Once the team is formed, Present and Carry is given (7.32.3. On command of the senior flag bearer, the guards of the color guard present arms on receiving and parting with the US flag. 7.32.4. Having received the US flag, the senior flag bearer conducts the color guard to its proper position in the center of the color squadron.). Notice that the USAF flag is NOT dipped. It’s not dipped because the requirements for it to render a salute are not met (see AFI 34-1201 for the requirements).
Colors received and the team is back in formation
After the team has gone back to Carry (guards with the rifles on the outside shoulder only), they march to the parade ground or wherever the ceremony will take place.
But…
I know, this brings up the question of, how is the staff held during this time? It would have to be Port/Trail Arms and even Angle Port to get through low clearance areas and doorways. Our biggest issue here is that the manuals do not cover these positions except for Trail. However, Trail doesn’t take care of every situation.
Our next question is when do the Bearers go to Carry? Immediately out of the doorway or when they get back into formation? I answer these questions in my in-person and (coming soon) online training.
The Replacing Sequence
Dismissing the Colors is the Army term for this, I chose, “Replacing”. After the ceremony is finished, the team marches back to where the colors are stored and reverse the above sequence like this:
The team arrives where the flags are stored.
The team arrives, the NCOIC gives Present for the guards only, and the color bearers march into where the flags are stored and secure them.
7.32.3. On command of the senior flag bearer, the guards of the color guard present arms on parting with the US flag. After parting with the US flag, the guard is brought to order arms by command of the senior remaining member, who is the right flank of the guard.
AFMAN 36-2203
Meaning, when the color bearers have marched into the building (out of sight), the Right Rifle Guard gives, “Order, HARMS!” and both guards wait for the bearers to return.
The color bearers march back out to the formation. The NCOIC then marches the team back to where they formed or simply dismisses the team.
What about Posting?
Q- While the colors are being posted/retrieved, should the guards be at present arms?
Answer: No. There is NO reason to do this.
Q- Directly after posting, and directly before retrieving, should the flag bearers all face and salute the US flag.
Answer- No. Everyone faces forward. No one should face the national color whether you have the entire team in front of the stands or not.
DM- I hope you are sitting down, this will take a minute or so to explain. The above sequences have NOTHING to do with posting/retrieving the colors. In the next paragraph is the Army version, which is similar, but still has NOTHING to do with posting/retrieving the colors. Emphasis mine in the quoted text.
15-5. RECEIVING OR DISMISSING THE COLORS BY THE COLOR GUARD The Color guard uses the following procedures when receiving or dismissing the Colors. a. When receiving uncased Colors on display in the commander’s office, the Color guard is positioned in a single rank facing the Colors. The Color sergeant commands Present, ARMS and Order, ARMS. On completion of Order Arms, the Color bearers (without command) secure the Colors. The Color guard files outside (guard, National Color, organizational Color, guard) and reforms in a line formation. The Color guards execute Right Shoulder Arms and the Color bearers assume the Carry Position. b. To dismiss the Colors, the procedures are basically the same except that the Colors are placed back in their stands before executing Present Arms.
TC 3-21.5, 20 January 2012
History
Here’s the issue with the USAF. Historically, color guards were just that, a team of four-plus Airmen from the Air Police Squadron who were called upon to present the colors here and there and not much else. Then, slowly but surely, the ceremonial requirements increased and installations created honor guards that were not based in the police squadron. Each of the services went through a similar situation.
The AF used the Army posting technique for decades before the USAF Honor Guard took over the Base Honor Guard program in the mid 1990s. Still, if a color guard is not part of a BHG (cadets, explorers, and Airmen), they must use the procedures in TC 3-21.5. All BHG Airmen must use the ceremonial techniques explained in the BHG manual.
Army posting and retrieving sequences have been corrupted time and again by veteran service organizations (stomping on the stands to post the colors, sound familiar? Stop it!) and individual veterans in other organizations into all kinds of strange spectacles that have NOTHING to do with the original intent- and not only the intent, these spectacles go outside of the writing in TC 3-21.5. Simply reading the TC would alleviate what amounts to ridiculousness bordering on disrespect.
It comes down to sequence corruption (because people don’t read) and ignorance that the AF was supposed to have been following the TC (FM) all this time. These are the culprits for how some rifle guards are left at the position of Present for minutes at a time while the flags are being posted/retrieved and how everyone on the team executes a half or some teeny-tiny facing movement just to render a salute while facing the flag.
For the Record
Presentation of the Colors = formally presenting the colors to an audience. As long as an American flag is displayed, this can be all that the color guard does, called a Show-n-Go, and then depart.
This should be your color guard’s most-used technique. You can find more information here: All About Posting or Presenting Colors. That article can get you started, but there is even more information you (everyone) should know.
Posting the Colors = This is a formal presentation (this MUST happen) and then the color guard or just the color bearers moving to post the flags in stands all in front of the audience.
When presenting or posting the colors and not a formally trained part of a BHG (or formally trained CAP cadet), follow the Army procedure. You can alter it to meet the needs of the environment but that doesn’t mean making up something you think would be “really cool”. That’s not what the colors is about.
Remember: not every single colors presentation or posting is covered in the TC or in the Marine Corps Order, which AF teams may also use. Both are available to download from the Resources section of this website.
15-8. POSTING AND RETIRING THE COLORS
Formal assemblies conducted indoors begin with the presentation of the Colors, referred to as posting the Colors, and end with the retirement of the Colors. The following instructions outline the procedures for posting and retiring the Colors, with a head table and without head table. Since indoor areas vary in size, configuration, and intended purpose, these instructions do not apply to all situations. Therefore, persons planning an indoor ceremony can modify these instructions based on their specific floor plan.
(2) When a head table is not used, the Color guard enters and moves to a predesignated position centered on and facing the audience. This may require the Color guard to move in a column and use Facing movements. The movement must be planned so that the National Color is always on the right when in line and is leading when in column.
TC 3-21.5
Emphasis mine, above.
For More
To get a better understanding of the requirements for each service color guard see the following links:
The techniques come from the military just like a color guard on foot and allowances have been made for American citizens who wish to present the colors while on horseback.
The Salute Fest is what I witnessed by a team of law enforcement officers, pallbearers, standing over the casket of a comrade and folding the American flag. Before picking up the flag, they saluted (this is acceptable). Before the first triangle fold, they saluted. The team then continued to salute for the other 12 triangle folds. It was painful to watch.
Yes, we want to honor our flag and we should. This is why the Flag Code was written and the US military wrote even more guidance. First responders follow either the Army Training Circular or the Marine Corps Order if they want just regulation drill, both downloadable from the Military Manuals section of the Resources page. If they want ceremonial drill, they follow the national standards detailed in The Honor Guard Manual.
Saluting the Uncased Flag
An uncased flag is one that is mounted on a color guard flagstaff and is not cased and also a flag that is not folded into a triangle.
When it is carried, uncased, by a color guard and the team marches past.
When passing, approaching from any direction, a color guard (whether the staffs are at Carry or Order) and the flag is uncased.
When a car with a mounted flag drives past (do not salute a stopped car unless it is occupied).
When a coach (hearse) or caisson carrying a flag-draped casket passes.
When passing a coach (hearse) or caisson carrying a flag-draped casket.
By the oncoming and off-going Casket Watch guards (the guards do not salute each other) who salute the flag-draped casket.
When the flag is raised at Reveille.
When the flag is lowered at Retreat.
By pallbearers just before picking up the casket for transport.*
By pallbearers just before lifting the flag off the casket to fold it.*
*This salute is not rendered by every military service, it is acceptable.
When to Not Salute the Uncased Flag
When passing a flag mounted on a halyard (rope) on an outside permanent flagpole.
When passing a flag mounted on a color guard flagstaff on display indoors.
Saluting the Cased Flag
A color guard flag that is folded (Marine Corps, Navy, & Coast Guard) or furled (wrapped; Army, Air Force, & Space Force) around the staff is then cased and the folded flag (triangle) is also considered cased.
Each time the folded flag is handed off to another.
Typically, the flag is folded, handed to or taken by the pallbearer who ensures the flag is presentable (not salutes here),
then that pallbearer hands the flag to the senior member present (salute rendered by the pallbearer),
and the senior member then presents the folded flag to the next of kin (salute rendered by the senior member).
When to Not Salute the Cased Flag
Before receiving the the folded flag.
When the folded flag is being carried to/from a ceremony.
At Reveille or Retreat.
How do we Salute the Flag?
We stand at Attention and render the hand salute. We do not bend our head down to look at the folded flag, we look straight ahead. The Slow Salute (3 seconds up, 3 second pause, & 3 seconds down) is appropriate for individuals only, not groups (formations). If more than one flag is presented at the same time and all presenters will coordinate their simultaneous Slow Salute, that is appropriate. Those in formation should render the standard salute (one second up and down and only on the commands of, “Present, ARMS” and “Order, ARMS”, respectively).
You have an upcoming Line of Duty Death funeral and will be handing the flag to the Sheriff, Police Chief, or Fire Chief who will then hand the folded flag to the next of kin (NOK). What do you say to brief the Chief? Here is something to help you:
“Chief, stand at the head of the casket. When I step over in front of you, hold your hands flat out in front of you with fingers together and I will hand you the flag with the presentation side down. I will salute the flag while your arms are still flat. When I finish my salute, cradle the flag into your chest (now, the presentation side faces out) and I will depart. If you forget to not cradle the flag before I salute, I will still salute. As I depart, you walk over to the NOK, bring your right hand up to the right side of the flag and push the long straight edge of the flag forward so that the presentation side is now up. Recite the statement of condolence, stand, render the Slow Salute, drop the salute and walk off.”
What to Expect
We can begin with the main image above. The flag is folded toward the foot. The checker takes the flag and then:
The flag goes through it’s inspection to ensure it is presentable and then sent down the “Chute” to the Lt.
The police lieutenant hands off the flag to the Chief.
The Lt salutes the flag, turns, and marches off. At this point, the Chief would move to the NOK and present the flag with the speech. Note: the Chief was not briefed in this situation as she was the recipient (mock NOK) for the mock graduation funeral. She was asked to just accept the flag without any guidance since the true NOK would not receive guidance.
“Oh how many feet you meet!” I read to my children every night when they were growing and Dr. Seuss’s Foot Book, was a favorite.
I got the idea for this article from this article – https://www.wearethemighty.com/MIGHTY-FIT/combat-boots-hurting-feet?
Foot Pain!
Fascia: A sheet or band of fibrous connective tissue enveloping, separating, or binding together muscles, organs, and other soft structures of the body.
Plantar Fascia: The thick connective tissue which supports the arch of the foot.
Plantar Fasciitis: Short-term inflammation in a fascia. It is a disorder of the connective tissue which supports the arch of the foot. It results in pain in the heel and bottom of the foot that is usually most severe with the first steps of the day or following a period of rest. Pain is also frequently brought on by bending the foot and toes up towards the shin.
Plantar Fasciosis: Long-term inflammation in a fascia. Although, it seems that everyone just uses “fasciitis” to mean both, in general.
I spent 20 years in the US Air Force and before that I was an Army ROTC cadet at New Mexico Military Institute. Since retiring from the USAF in 2005, I still wear boots in my DrillMaster utility uniform any time I am teaching. That’s quite a few years to wear boots! To use today’s vernacular, plantar fasciitis much? Yes and I was given these hard plastic inserts by the VA clinic that I wore for several years that helped a little bit, but I still needed to get a new set each year or so. Still, the idea was still in the back of my head: why do I need these? What happened?
There are still people in the world who do not wear shoes. A tribe in the jungle somewhere doesn’t have a podiatrist assigned to it who is telling one of the older members, “Well, we just need to take an impression of each of your feet and then we will get you some hard, solid plastic inserts to give you some relief.” Insert into what? No shoes.
If people can survive all their lives without a “tribal podiatrist”, what happened to my feet? Shoes and boots happened.
I don’t play a doctor on TV or anywhere, this is just my experience and research. A bunch of research that I will not detail except to say that there are some very good physical therapy accounts on Instagram that will explain all kinds of details that I’m not qualified to get into. Here is the shortened journey I went through to have feet that don’t hurt.
Exercise. Your feet have muscles that are not allowed to work properly when you wear certain shoes and boots. This is not going to be fun or comfortable at first, but I was better in about nine months. After two years, my feet are just fine. Do this every day.
I walked forward and backward in bare feet eight steps on the outsides, insides, heels, and platforms (ball of the foot and toes) of my feet. At first, the heels might be the most painful so I wore athletic shoes or went outside and walked in the grass. Eventually, I was able to do all of my walking on our hard floors in the house without any pain whatsoever.
“Make fists with your toes.” Lay a towel flat on a smooth floor and, while leaving your heel on the floor, pull the towel toward you with your toes and arch.
Shoes. When not on duty, start wearing shoes that provide protection from the surface on which you are walking, but that can bend and move and allow your feet to work properly. I fell for the notion of having shoes that must have steel plates in the soles to give you the best support or the supper soft squishy soles that help you roll your foot forward. Please don’t waste your money, the support comes from your bones, tendons, muscles, and fascia in your feet, up your legs, and into your pelvis.
I don’t wear flip-flops. If you want a sandal, wear one that has a strap around the back of the heel.
You are on a relatively short journey that I pray will reduce and eventually eliminate your pain. I hope this helps you.
In my years of judging military drill competitions, I have encountered a peculiar situation with just about every Navy JROTC team. The team commander (platoon, squad, or color guard) calls the commands without the first letter of each word. Here is an example:
“‘Orward, ‘ARCH!”
I thought it might be one of those situations where one JROTC team does something different and others want to do it too because different is somehow “cool”. That’s not the case at all. Apparently Headquarters NJROTC teaches this technique as part of the summer leadership school curriculum (please correct me if I am wrong!). If this is the case, we have a big problem.
The issue with this is twofold: 1) The US Navy follows Marine Corps Order 5060.20 for drill and ceremonies and the command voice is addressed in this Order. NJROTC must take the information in the MCO and apply it uniformly across the command. 2) The sound of these commands is like listening to a monotone sea lion. It’s an abrupt, bark-like sound, devoid of the proper qualities.
The following voice characteristics are completely ignored when using the monotone-no-first-letter NJROTC technique (text in bold below is my emphasis).
MCO 5060.20 Says
f. A command must be given loud enough to be heard by all members of a unit. (1) Good posture, proper breathing, and the correct use of throat and mouth muscles help develop a commander’s voice. (2) Projecting the voice enables one to be heard at maximum range without undue strain. To project a command, commanders must focus their voices on the most distant individuals. Good exercises for voice projection are: (a) Yawning to get the feel of the open mouth and throat. (b) Counting and saying the vowel sounds “oh” and “ah” in a full, firm voice. (c) Giving commands at a uniform cadence, prolonging each syllable. (d) When practicing, stand erect, breathe properly, keep the mouth open wide, and relax the throat. (3) The diaphragm is the most important muscle in breathing. It is the large horizontal muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen. It automatically controls normal breathing, but must be developed to give commands properly. Deep breathing exercises are one good method of developing the diaphragm. Another is to take a deep breath, hold it, open the mouth, relax the throat muscles, and snap out a series of fast “hats” or “huts.” Expelling short puffs of air from the lungs should make these sounds. If properly done, you can feel the stomach muscles tighten as the sounds are made. (4) The throat, mouth, and nose act as amplifiers. They give fullness to and help project the voice. In giving commands, the throat should be relaxed. The lower jaw and lips should be loose. The mouth should be open wide and the vowel sounds (a, e, i, o, u) should be prolonged. Consonants (letters other than vowels) and word endings should be curt and sharply cut off. (5) The position of attention is the proper position for giving commands (See figure 1-6a). A leader’s bearing will be emulated. If it is military, junior personnel will be inspired to respond to commands with snap and precision. (6) Distinct commands inspire troops. Indistinct commands confuse them. All commands can be given correctly without loss of effect or cadence. To give distinct commands, you must emphasize enunciation; make full use of the tongue, lips, and lower jaw; practice giving commands slowly, carefully, and in cadence; and then increase the rate of delivery until the proper rhythm (112 to 120 beats per minute) is reached and each syllable is distinct. Raising the hand to the mouth to aid in projecting commands is not proper. (7) Inflection is the rise and fall in pitch, the tone changes of the voice. (a) Preparatory commands should be delivered with a rise and inflection in the voice. (e.g., “BaaaTALion,” “PlaaaTOON,” “FoorWARD,” “TO the REAR,” etc.) In particular those preparatory commands that cause supplemental movements should be heavily accentuated on the last syllable. (e.g., The command “Present, ARMS” the preparatory command Preee(pause)ZENT” causes those armed with swords to execute the first count of the movement and the national color to go to the carry. Another example is “Officers, Center, MARCH.” On the preparatory command of “OffiCERS” those armed with swords go to the carry, on the preparatory command of “CennnTER” the officer’s step and/or face) (b) A command of execution is given in a sharper and higher pitch than the tone of the preparatory command’s last syllable. A good command of execution has no inflection, but it must have snap. It should be delivered with sharp emphasis, ending like the crack of a whip. If properly given, troops will react to it with snap and precision. (c) Combined commands such as “FALL IN” are delivered without inflection. They are given in the uniform high pitch and loudness of a command of execution.
MCO 5060.20 15 MAY 2019 Enclosure (1)
Notice how command voice qualities detailed in the MCO are the complete opposite of the technique that most NJROTC cadets seem to use. The MCO was written for a purpose, just like all other military manuals. We need to use it as it was intended.
Certain things, when they become ubiquitous, can lose their special quality. Compound daily viewing with that object being everywhere and that object or moment becomes commonplace.
Flags
The American flag is one of those items. In the eyes of some, it’s just another piece of cloth. Many in the American public understand that it is not just some colored cloth, we understand that, even though the government might be running the country into the ground, the flag still stands for freedom, truth, etc. However, when Americans do not take care of their flag and hold it in high esteem, you get what we have today.
Take that idea and put the POW/MIA flag in the mix. As of 2020, this flag is now to be flown at every federal building. It’s never carried by military color guards, it is only carried for the funeral of a former POW as a personal color.
Taps
Let’s add to this idea and include the bugle call Taps. Taps is technically not “played” it is sounded and sounded only at specific times for very specific reasons. This is from Jari Villanueva, America’s Taps Bugler:
Taps serves a dual purpose: 1) To signal that the end of the day and that it’s time to go to sleep and, 2) To render honors at a military funeral or memorial service and only on a bugle or trumpet. Taps is not sounded just because the community or the nation is suffering a certain tragedy (real or perceived).
Note: When buglers are playing at a ceremony, they must be in view of the next of kin. All ceremonial elements must be in view.
And Another Thing…
The Firing Party is next on our list. A firing party is made up of a minimum of 4 members: 3 who fire and 1 to command; and the maximum number is 8 members: 7 to fire and 1 to command. The team does not shoot, it fires the Three Volley Salute. We find information about the firing party and when it executes its mission in Army Training Circular 3-21.5 and Marine Corps Order 5060.20. Both manuals have information for the team to fire during a funeral or memorial service and that’s it. A firing party does not fire a salute because it would be really cool or special. The Three Volley Salute is meant to show respect for a fallen comrade at a funeral, memorial or remembrance ceremony only. Traditionally, the firing party fires OVER THE GRAVE and we can extrapolate that to over the cremated remains or, if the remains have not been recovered, over the general area of where the next of kin.
Gun Salute at Marine Barracks Washington
A firing party does not fire the 21-gun salute. That is accomplished only by the cannons of the Army, Marine Corps, and Navy.
But, the Manuals Don’t Say We can’t…
This is selfishness. I’ve heard the arguments for all kinds of situations: “The manual doesn’t say we ‘can’t’ use metal staffs for color guard.” “The manual doesn’t say we ‘can’t’ fire a salute at the parking lot of the deceased’s favorite restaurant while his friends have wings and drinks in his honor.”
You are correct, the manuals do not have a long list of situations where the firing party (and Taps, for that matter) is not authorized. What you WILL find are the two situations where the firing of the Three Volley Salute is authorized. Look for what is there, not for what isn’t.
Unbelievable!
I was told by a social media friend that he saw a veteran service organization color guard during a parade in his town. The team marched to a certain point, stopped, the guards stepped out of formation, and fired. This kind of action needs to stop immediately. A color guard and firing party do not merge. We have manuals for a reason.
