There is a flag fold technique for the first triangle fold called, Cutting the First Stripe. It’s used for an interment flag that has been used for practice and has been folded and refolded so much that it is a bit stretched out, but still good for practice. This technique “cuts” the stripe in half on that first fold, pictured …
Reciting the Pledge with a Colors Presentation
At ceremonies across the country, many local municipalities request a color team from military installations or even first responders. Quite often, music is not available so those gathered recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Color Guards: In all of the research I’ve accomplished, there are guidelines for departmental/organizational colors from each service’s drill and ceremonies, flag, or protocol manuals: departmental/organizational colors …
Rendering Honors, the Briefing for Funeral Directors and Honor Guard Members
The definitive briefing for funeral directors and honor guard members. Download the handout by clicking here.
How Should Multiple Flags be Folded When Taken Down?
This is for outside flags (attached to a halyard and flown from a pole), not indoor/outdoor flags (for color guard flagstaffs for carrying only). The American Flag The American flag must always be folded into a triangle (ref: Flag Code). If it is wet from rain or snow, it is taken down, folded, and brought inside where it is unfolded …
All About Uniform Gloves
White Gloves I constantly see pictures of cadets, Active Duty, Reserve and Guard, and first responder teams wearing gloves that look terrible. Whether its the “Flag Bearer Gloves” (at right) or the dress gloves with a snap or no snap, they all are either (loose) or a bad idea (look almost “industrial”). The picture at right is a bit misleading …
All About Posting or Presenting Colors
There is quite a bit of information and several situations that every color team needs to know to maintain the American flag in the position of honor – on the marching right or in front. The American flag never marches any other position. Never. Military and para-military (just about every organization that has its members in uniform) should follow military …
The Colors Reverse How-to
The Colors Reverse turns the team around 180 degrees without executing a wheel movement. Here is a complete explanation on how to execute the move for a team of four.
The Logical Separation of Colors
While I’m sure that you are completely mesmerized at my drawing abilities, I hope the illustrations help get the idea across. First: know the difference between posting and presenting the colors. Posting the colors is when the colors guard/team enters, renders honors and then places the colors in the stands. Presenting is when the colors team enters, renders honors and …
The “Magic White Glove Effect”
It’s truly amazing. One minute you are doing your job in your department or unit and then supervision comes in and chooses you and a couple of others “to be an honor guard” for an upcoming event. You have no idea what that means, but you have complete faith in your leadership as they hand out the white gloves that …
The Difference Between Accuracy and Precision
This video can be of great help to you in training.