I received such a great question that it spurred me into creating a new tag #DrillMasterRecommends, and writing this article. Thank you, Jari Villanueva, The Taps Bugler! Question: I’m looking at updating our organization’s flags. Our new Honor Guard would like to purchase an American flag a state flag, poles for each and bases. What do you recommend? For a …
The Flagstaff Spade Marker
The Flagstaff/Guidon Staff The guidon staff comes in three sizes for the US military: 7′ – for colors to post ONLY (USAF only – these staffs are NEVER carried in any other circumstance, ever) 8′ – for guidon flags and 3′ x 4′ colors (all services) 9′ – for 4’4″ x 5’6″ flags (Air Force, as of 2019, it used …
The Guidon Staff Repair Kit
“The best thing since sliced bread.” That phrase is used so often that it usually loses its meaning. Until now – and it’s only available from MIL-BAR! The Guidon Staff Replacement Kit IS the best thing since sliced bread. Well, it may be a little lower than the number one spot, but it’s on the list! Maintenance is Key! Flagstaff …
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. …
Replacing the Army Spade Finial
Finial = the topper/ornament of a flagstaff Flagstaff = the guidon staff carried by a color guard member Active Duty and Reserve US Navy and US Coast Guard color guards are required to have the battle-ax, also called a Battalion Lance, as their primary finial, according to NTP 13B, Flags, Pennants and Customs (download from the Resources page). The silver …
The Flagpole with Two Halyards and the Intended Direction of Display
DrillMaster explains his helpful term, Intended Direction of Display, when raising flags on a stationary flagpole with two halyards.
Ask the DrillMaster: What are we doing wrong with our color guard?
Question: Since you work with drill teams & know proper flag etiquette, you’re my go-to person on this one. We were told at a national veteran convention by someone from another state that we shouldn’t have an eagle on our state flag staff, only on the US Flag staff. I haven’t found anything about it. Is this accurate? Thanks! B …