There are proper ways to handle a flag. This article goes over several proper techniques and shows some that are less than desirable and even inappropriate.
Civil Air Patrol, Naval Sea Cadet Corps, or Coast Guard Auxiliary Member Funeral
I received a message a short time ago regarding cadets taking part in the funeral of a civilian adult who was a member of Civil Air Patrol. This applies not only to CAP but also NSCC, and CGA (CGA has some interaction with the Sea Scout program). Military Funeral Honors Public Law 106-65 amended Title 10 U.S. Code § 1491 …
“Flag Flip”
“Flag Flip” is something that is a bit difficult to explain so, I made a short video.
The Meaning of the Thirteen Flag Folds
DrillMaster explains the meaning of the thirteen folds of the American flag.
How Should Multiple Flags be Folded When Taken Down? State Flag Folding
This is for outside flags (attached to a halyard and flown from a pole), not indoor/outdoor flags that are only for color guard flagstaffs for carrying and indoor display. 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 …
Making Things More “Ceremonialer”
“Ceremonialer” is the term I created as I’ve watched members of the military, first responders (many who are veterans), and cadets perform movements that do not bring any more reverence or honor to what they are doing at ceremonies becuase these movements or techniques are based on ego. When it comes to the American flag and rendering honors, never should …
Tuck Your Gloves! But, In Your Epaulet?
Some may find this innocuous, but (first responder) ceremonial guardsmen need to maintain a professional image when in uniform before, during and after a ceremony. Any other time that we are out of uniform, dress is most likely not an issue. For us in the military, it’s a big no-no to tuck gloves into an epaulet. That’s not where they belong …
The Burial at Sea
Burial at Sea is a long standing maritime tradition and, just like a committal service on land, there are certain procedures to follow. Picture courtesy of navaltoday.com. It’s not just military members, Coast Guard or Merchant Mariners, there are also law enforcement and firefighting departments that have water-dedicated sections and burial at sea for the members of those sections would …
Creating a Casket Deck
When a firefighter passes, many, if not all of the time an apparatus (fire truck) is used as a caisson. Whether it’s an antique or a modern apparatus, it is a fitting way to transport a fallen brother or sister. The hose bed is emptied and used to transport the casket. There are a couple problems, however. The first problem …
The DrillMaster Practice Ceremonial Fire Axe
I thought the name, DrillMaster iAxe or iAx, (like the DrillMaster iDrill Rifle, because you, “I” make it) might just look weird, so I went with the longer name. Still, it works. The ceremonial fire axe is the usual weapon of choice for firefighter colors teams. However, firefighters are paramilitary and some teams do use the traditional rifle. Other units …