Second in the series: DrillMaster explains the standards for the US Army color guard.
The Why of the Military Color Guard – Regulations
The first in the series! DrillMaster explains why there are certain requirements for military color guards.
The Flagstaff Spade Marker
When we stand at Order, Parade Rest (Stand at Ease), and Carry (Right Shoulder), the spade should be flat to the front. In order to do this, for many years, we (older guys) would use thumbtacks that we could feel with our fingers with the staff on the deck and/or see when carried.
Color Guard Performance “Factors”
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 Half-Staff, Half-Mast, and Mourning Ribbon DrillMaster Study
There is confusion about placing the American flag at half-staff, using a mourning ribbon, and a few myths. Let’s go over the facts.
Flagstaff Refurbishing
Flagstaffs can become weathered and lose their original look like the one pictured. That is easily remedied! Well, not easy-easy, but it’s not really all that difficult. Here are the steps: Remove the ferrules and middle screw joints. Sand the staffs down completely to the wood. Stain the the staffs. Coat the staffs with at least five coats of urethane. …
Color Guard Flag Protocol
There is so much information to learn when it comes to flag protocol. A flag is called a color when posted in a stand and carried by a color guard.
The Difference Between Mark Time and Half Step
OK, we know that Mark Time has you marching in place and Half Step has you marching forward at half the size as a normal step. But, there is confusion out there and I see it constantly. Mark Time Service Differences The Army tells us that the foot is brought straight up off the marching surface two inches. The Marine …
Flag Protocol Slides
The following slides are provided for educating my fellow Americans. Please download and share. If you would like to have the whole set emailed to you, please use the contact form on the front page of the website.
More Than One Flag At a Ceremony
“You cannot display more than one flag at a ceremony!” That’s one of several urban legends I’ve heard over the years related to me or told directly to me by well meaning people. Well meaning people who don’t know what they are talking about. Apparently, one set already posted and another set formally presented is “too many”. I know, you …