Color Guard

Study Guide

Study guide

Flag

Height: 9' 6"
Height without pike: 9' 1"
Size of American Flag: 5' 6" by 4' 1"
Hawaii was the last state; it was added to the country on August 21, 1959
Alaska was bought from Russia on March 30, 1867
Flag was made by Betsy Ross in Philadelphia
13 colonies represent the 13 stripes
RED: Courage
WHITE: Trust
BLUE: Justice

Rifle (Daisy Drill Rifle [DDR])

Weight: 9.8 lbs
Height: 43 inches

13 stars on the BLUES UNIFORM BUTTON (Males) represent the 13 colonies

MARINE CORPS DRILL AND CEREMONIES MANUAL

SECTION I: DRILL

CHAPTER 7 NATIONAL AND ORGANIZATIONAL FLAGS

7000. GENERAL

1. When flown from ships or crafts of the Navy or from a flagstaff at commands ashore, the national flag will be displayed per the provisions of U.S. Navy Regulations. The national flag is also called the “national ensign” or “ensign.”

2. Marine organizations are equipped with a national flag and an organizational flag. The organizational flag is an official flag that is authorized to be displayed by an organization of the U.S. Marine Corps.

3. When mounted on a staff (pike) and carried by an individual on foot, or displayed or cased in a fixed location, the national flag is called the “national colors” and the organizational flag is called the “organizational colors.” The term “colors” means either or both the national colors and the organizational colors.

a. The use of the plural form of the word color (colors) to designate a single flag, ensign, standard, or pennant comes from the ancient tradition of referring to the multiple colors found on these types of standards. This tradition is carried on today when we refer to the national colors; red, white, and blue and the Marine Corps colors; scarlet and gold. The plural form is also used when referring to the types of movements, ceremonies or musical accompaniment involving the colors, i.e., carry colors, morning colors, “To the Colors” etc.

b. When designating personnel or units as part of color details then the appropriate singular or plural form of the word will be used, i.e., color guard, color company, etc.

4. When mounted on a vehicle, the national flag is called the “national standard” and the organizational flag is called the “organizational standard.” The term “standard” means the national standard only. The term “standards” means both the national standard and the organizational standard.

5. In garrison or on board ship, the colors of an organization, when not in use, are kept by the commanding officer. Whenever practicable, colors should be kept uncased and displayed in the office of the commanding officer, or other appropriate place. They may be cased, however, by placing them within a protective covering. Colors that are kept cased and not used often should be unfurled and aired frequently.

6. The colors (standards) may be carried in any formation in which two or more companies participate, and in escorts and honor guards when ordered. Separate companies and detachments, who are authorized organizational colors, may carry colors when two or more platoons participate. Unless otherwise directed for special ceremonies, the national colors will always be carried when the organizational colors are carried, but the national colors may be carried alone.

7. In battalion formations, the colors (standards) will be posted with a designated color company and in regimental formations with a designated color battalion. The color company (battalion) is posted in the formation so that the color guard is in the approximate center of the formation (right or forward of center if this is impossible).

8. In most regimental formations, only the colors (standards) of the regiment will be carried. When two or more separate battalions are formed as a regiment, only the colors (standards) of one battalion will be carried for the regiment. When authorized by the commander, however, the organizational colors of subordinate organizations may be carried in ranks (massed color guard) arranged behind the parent organization’s color guard.

9. When the organizational colors are draped in mourning, the mourning streamer shall consist of a black crepe streamer 7 feet long and about 12 inches wide. A bowknot, the loops of which are 6 inches long, is tied in the center. This knot attaches the streamer to the upper ferrule, just below the spearhead. If a streamer attachment set is used, the bowknot will be tied on the upper ferrule below the streamer attachment set in a manner so as not to disturb the natural hang of the unit’s battle streamers.

10. Uncased colors will be treated with dignity and formality. When moved while outdoors, they will be marched by a color guard. Whenever possible, they will be escorted by a color company (battalion) from the organizational headquarters to the place of the ceremony. If it becomes necessary to case or uncase the colors outdoors, it will be accomplished with proper ceremony as described in paragraph 7305.

11. Whenever the colors are brought forward of the line of troops (e.g., trooping the colors, for retirements, awards, etc.) the command must present arms. If a band is present, then the appropriate music, e.g., “National Anthem,” “To the Colors,” or “Retreat” is played

12. During training and rehearsals (except full dress rehearsals), colors will be cased.

13. Colors (standards) are never allowed to touch the deck.

14. Color guards do not fix bayonets.

15. The standard weapon used for the color guard is the M16A2 service rifle.

16. Those units, whose T/O ceremonial weapons are the M1 or M14 rifle, should refer to appendixes A and B for the manual of arms.

17. The use of gold fringe on the U.S. Flag is expressly forbidden for Marine Corps organizations.

18. The U.S. Flag, when displayed or carried on a staff (pike) is adorned with a red, white, and blue rope and tassel. The organizational color is adorned with a scarlet and gold rope and tassel. However, once a unit has been awarded a streamer the rope and tassel is removed from the organizational color and a streamer attachment set added between the upper ferrule and the spearhead. Ropes and tassels are affixed to the top of the staff between the two ribs of the upper ferrule using a girth hitch knot. (See figure 7-5.)

19. The national and organizational colors are only destroyed when; they have become soiled beyond cleaning, torn beyond repair and to keep them from falling into enemy hands.

20. Flags that may have a historical significance are disposed of per the instructions contained in MCO P10520.3.

21. National and organizational colors will only be carried on wooden 9 1/2-foot flagstaffs. The use of metal flagstaffs is only authorized for Marine Barracks Washington, DC.

22. For further information concerning flags, streamers and guidons refer to MCO P10520.3.

7001. COLOR SALUTES

1. By the National Colors (Standard). The national colors (standard) renders no salute, except as specified in U.S. Navy Regulations, paragraph 1263.1.

2. By the Organizational Colors. In military ceremonies, the organizational colors salutes while the “National Anthem,” “To the Colors,” “Retreat,” or “Hail to the Chief” is being played, and when rendering honors to the organizational commander, individual of higher rank, or the dead, but in no other case. (See par. 7104.)

3. By the Organizational Standard. The organizational standard renders no salutes as it is mounted on a vehicle.

7002. HOISTING, LOWERING, AND FOLDING THE NATIONAL ENSIGN

1. General

a. The ceremonial hoisting and lowering of the national ensign at 0800 and sunset, respectively, shall be accomplished ashore per the provisions of U.S. Navy Regulations and this paragraph.

b. A detail consisting of a noncommissioned officer and two enlisted members of the guard will hoist and lower the ensign. This detail will be armed with sidearms, if the special equipment of the guard includes sidearms; otherwise, the pistol belt only will be worn.

c. The commander of the guard ashore will see that the proper ensign is flown at the appropriate time and under all weather conditions. For different types of ensigns. (See figure 7-1.) Any member of the guard who observes any hazard to the ensign, such as loosened halyards, fouling, etc., will immediately report them to the commander of the guard.

2. Positions of the Ensign. The ensign is flown from the peak or truck of the mast, except when directed to be flown at half-mast. The ensign at half-mast is flown, when possible, with the middle point of its hoist opposite the middle point of the mast. The middle point of a guyed mast is midway between the peak of the mast and the point of attachment of the guys. The middle point of a mast with a yardarm is midway between the peak of the mast and the yardarm. Technically, an ensign at any position other than at the peak of the mast is half-mast. Local conditions may require other positions. To half-mast the ensign, it is first hoisted to the peak and then lowered to the half-mast position.

3. Hoisting the Ensign. The detail assigned to hoist the ensign is formed in line at the guardhouse with the noncommissioned officer carrying the folded ensign in the center. The detail is then marched to the flagstaff, halted, and the ensign attached to the halyards. The halyards are manned by the two enlisted members, who take positions on opposite sides of the staff, facing it, so they will be able to hoist the ensign without fouling it. The flag should be clearly marked so that the blue field is raised first. Additionally, the ensign should be pulled sufficiently, prior to the beginning of colors, to insure the blue field is hoisted first. This action precludes the embarrassment of hoisting the ensign upside down. The noncommissioned officer continues to hold the ensign until it is hoisted clear of his grasp to prevent it from touching the deck. When the ensign is clear, the noncommissioned officer executes a hand salute. After the ensign is hoisted, the other members of the detail grasp the halyard in their left hand and execute a hand salute. On the last note of the “National Anthem” or “To the Colors,” all members of the detail terminate their hand salutes. If the ensign is to be flown at halfmast, it is then lowered slowly to that position. (See figure 7-2.) The halyards are then secured to the cleat of the mast. The detail is again formed, marched to the guardhouse, and dismissed.

4. Lowering the Ensign. The detail is formed at the guardhouse, marched to the flagstaff, and the halyards manned in the same manner as for hoisting the ensign. On the first note of the “National Anthem” or “Retreat,” the ensign is slowly lowered. If at half-mast, it is first hoisted smartly to the peak on the first note of the music, and then slowly lowered. The noncommissioned officer catches it at the last note of the music. The ensign is detached from the halyards and folded as prescribed below. The halyards are secured to the mast; the detail is formed and marched to the guardhouse, where the ensign is turned over to the commander of the guard.

5. Replacing an Ensign Already Hoisted. There may be times when it is necessary to replace the ensign after morning colors but prior to evening colors. Some examples are, changing to a storm flag due to inclement weather; the ensign becomes fouled in the halyards; the ensign is raised upside down; etc.

a. If the flagstaff is double rigged, i.e., has two sets of halyards, the new ensign is hoisted to the peak or truck and then the ensign being replaced is slowly lowered, folded and returned to the guardhouse.

b. If the flagstaff has only one halyard, two color details are used to replace the ensign. The first color detail slowly lowers the ensign, and then quickly moves from the flagstaff to fold the old ensign. The second color detail, with the replacement ensign, then moves to the flagstaff and hoists the new ensign to the peak or truck. Both details salute as the replacement ensign is hoisted. Both color details then return to the guardhouse.

6. Folding the Ensign. The ensign is folded in half the long way so the crease parallels the red and white stripes. It is folded in half again so the new crease also parallels the red and white stripes with the blue field on the outside of the fold. The lower corner of the fly end (away from the blue field) is folded up to the top so the single (folded) edge lays perpendicular across the stripes. By repeatedly folding along the inboard edge of the triangle, the ensign is folded into the shape of a cocked hat. (See figure 7-3.)

7003. SALUTES AND HONORS TO THE NATIONAL FLAG

1. General. Salutes to the national flag are rendered per U.S. Navy Regulations. (See chapter 12, section 2.)

2. By Individuals. Individuals in the Navy, when in uniform and covered will render the appropriate salute (hand, rifle, etc.) as indicated below. Persons not in uniform will stand at attention, face the flag and place the right hand over the heart. Gentlemen, if covered, remove their headdress with the right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, so that the right hand is over the heart.

a. During morning colors and evening colors individuals stop and face the flagstaff, or in the direction of the music, when “Attention” is sounded. Salutes are rendered by individuals on the first note of the “National Anthem,” “To The Colors,” or “Retreat,” and terminated on the last note. Individuals would remain at attention facing the flagstaff/music until “Carry On” is sounded, and then continue about their duties.

b. When being passed by or passing the national colors (standard) uncased.

c. Small flags carried by individuals and flags flying from flagstaffs, either stands alone or affixed to a building, (except during morning and evening colors) are not saluted.

d. A folded flag being carried to morning colors, or from evening colors, by a color detail is considered cased and not saluted.

3. By Persons in Formation

a. During morning colors and evening colors the formation commander stops the formation and causes it to face the flagstaff, or in the direction of the music, when “Attention” is sounded. The formation commander salutes for the formation on the first note of the “National Anthem,” “To The Colors,” or “Retreat,” and terminate the salute on the last note. The formation is kept at attention facing the flagstaff/music until “Carry On” is sounded at which time the formation commander would move the formation to its destination or dismiss the formation.

b. When being passed by or passing the national colors (standard) uncased, persons in formation are brought to attention and order arms if halted, or attention if marching. The formation commander shall render the salute for his unit, facing the colors if the formation is halted. Persons in formation participating in a ceremony shall, on command, follow the procedure prescribed for the ceremony.

c. Small flags carried by individuals and flags flying from flagstaffs, either stands alone or affixed to a building, (except during morning and evening colors) are not saluted. d. A folded flag being carried to morning colors, or from evening colors, by a color detail is considered cased and not saluted.

4. By Occupants of Vehicles. During morning colors or evening colors or when being passed by or passing an uncased national colors, all vehicles in motion will be brought to a halt. Persons riding in such vehicles shall remain seated at attention until colors are over or the color has passed.

7004. COMPOSITION OF THE COLOR GUARD

1. The standard Marine Corps color guard consists of four individuals of approximately equal height. Two noncommissioned officers are the color bearers and two other members, junior to the color bearers, are the color guards. The senior color bearer carries the national colors and commands the color guard. The junior color bearer carries the organizational colors, which is always on the left of the national colors. (See figure 7-4a.) If a female is part of the color guard she wears trousers, and not a skirt, for uniformity. The color bearers should not wear medals or ribbons and badges because the slings will destroy them. Slings are adjusted so that the colors are the same height when at the carry or, if this isn't possible, the national colors are slightly higher than the organizational colors. If necessary, have the senior color bearer slightly taller than the organizational color bearer. All members of the color guard wear the pistol belt (white belt if in blues); the color bearers wear the pistol belt over the sling to keep the sling firmly in place. If the color guard is wearing the service cover, then they use two chin-straps. One is worn normally and the second one is worn under the chin. When only the national colors is carried, the color guard will include only one color bearer.

2. Color guards carrying the Navy and Marine Corps service colors will consist of five members, three Marines and two Navy members. The national color bearer and commander of the color guard will be a Marine. (See figure 7-4b.)

3. A Joint Armed Forces Color Guard will consist of eight members; three Army, two Marine, one Navy, one Air Force, and one Coast Guard. The national color bearer and commander of a joint color guard will be a soldier. The respective service colors are aligned to the left of the national colors per DoD directives. (See figure 7-4c.) For color guards involving service academies, reserve or National Guard colors, refer to chapter 14, for the proper precedence.

4. Massed colors is when a regimental or larger unit commander desires to have all of that command's subordinate colors in the color guard. The first rank of massed colors consists of the two riflemen, the national colors and the colors of the senior unit present. This is the senior color guard. The remainder of the organizational colors form ranks of four behind the first rank, by seniority, from the color guards right to left. (See figure 7-4e.) Odd numbered colors are placed by seniority, and are filled in from right to left. (See figure 7-4d.) During parades and ceremonies when the colors are brought forward, only the first rank, senior color guard, marches forward. If colors are to be trooped, the senior color guard only is trooped. The remainder of the massed colors marches on with the unit to their position in the line of troops, leaving space for the senior color guard.

5. The national colors of foreign countries will not be carried by the same color guard carrying the United States colors. When necessary, a separate color guard, consisting of one noncommissioned officer and two enlisted, will be formed to carry foreign colors.

6. The flags or banners of non-U.S. military organizations (e.g., Boy Scouts, Kawanas Club, etc.) are not carried in the color guard.

7. Color guards armed with rifles will be trained to execute a modified rifle manual. This involves pauses on the part of one or the other riflemen so that the rifles move to and from the right and left shoulders at the same time, as described in paragraph 7005.

8. The color guard is formed and marches in one rank at close interval with the color bearers in the center. While marching, members of the color guard do not swing their free arms. The color guard does not execute to the rear march, about face, flanking movements or fix bayonets. When the unit to which the color guard is attached executes any such commands, the senior color bearer orders a movement appropriate for the color guard.

9. The color bearers are unarmed, but the color guards carry either pistols or rifles (except when inside a chapel). Only color guards mounted on horseback carry the noncommissioned officer’s sword vice a rifle or pistol. When participating in a ceremony inside a chapel, the color guard will be unarmed and uncovered.

10. All colors carried by the color guard are attached to staffs of equal height. The standard color staff consists of a 9 1/2-foot, hardwood pole capped at each end by metal ferrules. The use of the all-metal staff is only authorized for Marine Barracks, Washington, DC. A metal spearhead screws into the top of the staff and a streamer attachment device may also be affixed to display an organization's award streamers. (See figure 7-5.) Streamers are placed with the senior streamer at the front of the staff. Subsequent streamers are then placed clockwise, around the staff, as symmetrically as possible.

7005. SYNCHRONIZING THE MANUAL OF ARMS FOR THE COLOR GUARDS ARMED WITH RIFLES

1. The manual of arms for color guards armed with rifles must be synchronized so that the rifles move (e.g., off of or to the shoulder) at the same time. Since the left rifleman is at left shoulder arms and the right rifleman is at right shoulder arms, moving to and from the right/left shoulder to the order, present or back the shoulder often involves different “counts” in the movement for each rifleman. To get the rifles moving together one or the other of the riflemen will have to do an occasional pause in the manual of arms so the other rifleman may catch up. When executing the rifle manual, both riflemen will wait for the senior color bearer's command of “Ready, CUT” before executing the final count of the movement.

a. Order Colors to Carry Colors. The command is “Carry, COLORS.” This is a four-count movement for both riflemen. The right rifleman goes to right shoulder arms and the left rifleman goes to the left shoulder arms.

b. Carry Colors to Order Colors. The command is “Order, COLORS.” This is a four-count movement for the right rifleman and a five-count movement for the left rifleman. In order to have the rifles move to the order together, the “counts” are modified as follows: (See figure 7-6.)

c. Order Colors to Present Colors. The command is “Present, COLORS.” This is a two-count movement for both riflemen, with both executing present arms with the rifle.

d. Present Colors to Order Colors. The command is “Order, COLORS.” This is a three-count movement for both riflemen, with both executing order arms with the rifle.

e. Carry Colors to Present Colors. The command is “Present, COLORS.” This is a three-count movement for both riflemen; however, it becomes a four-count movement to synchronize the rifles being brought from the left and right shoulder to present arms. (See figure 7-7.)

f. Present Colors to Carry Colors. The command may be “Carry, COLORS” or “Shoulder, ARMS.” This is a three-count movement for the left rifleman and a fourcount movement for the right rifleman to return the weapons to the left and right shoulder from present arms. (See figure 7-8.)

CHAPTER 7 NATIONAL AND ORGANIZATIONAL FLAGS

SECTION 1: MANUAL OF THE COLORS

7100. ORDER COLORS

1. At order colors, the lower ferrule rests on the deck touching the outside edge of the right shoe. The staff is gripped in a strong grip with the thumb wrapped around the front of the staff with the fingers wrapped to the rear. The right elbow is held close to the side so the forearm will help support the staff. The upper staff rests in the hollow of the right shoulder. The staff is vertical with the flat side of the spearhead facing front. The color bearer is at attention. (See figure 7-9.)

2. Color guards armed with rifles are at order arms when the colors are at the order.

7101. CARRY COLORS FROM ORDER COLORS

1. When changing from order colors to carry colors, the command is “Carry, COLORS.”

2. At the Command “Carry,” change the grip on the staff to the “V” grip so as to grip it from the rear between the thumb and fingers of the right hand with the fingers around the staff.

3. At the command “COLORS,” raise the staff smartly with the right hand to a point where the lower ferrule is just above the sling socket. While raising it, keep the staff vertical. Grasp the staff at the lower ferrule with the left hand to steady it and align it with the sling socket. Do not look down. NOTE: All organizational colors will be raised to the carry with the national colors.

4. Seat the lower ferrule in the sling socket. As the ferrule is seated, permit the right hand to slide down the staff to a position directly in front of the color bearer's chin. (See figure 7-10a.)

5. Color guards armed with rifles execute right and left shoulder arms at the command “COLORS” so that the rifles are on the outboard shoulders as described in paragraph 7005.

6. All members of the color guard will halt their movements before executing the last count. (See figure 7-10b.) On the senior color bearer’s command “Ready, CUT,” all members will move their free hands smartly to their sides. (See figure 7-10c.) If the color staffs need additional support due to high winds, the color bearers will grip the staff with their left hands just below their right.

7102. ORDER COLORS FROM CARRY COLORS

1. When changing from carry colors to order colors, the command is “Order, COLORS (ARMS).” Execution is begun on the preparatory command.

2. At the command “Order,” grip the staff with the left hand above the ferrule and remove the staff from the sling socket. The staff moves to the right side of the body with the ferrule just forward of the sling socket. (See figure 7-11a.)

3. At the command “COLORS,” lower the staff to a point approximately 2 inches above the deck along the outside edge of the right shoe; release the staff with the left hand and re-grip it above the right hand. (See figure 7-11b.)

4. Relax both hands so the staff will slide down until the ferrule rests on the deck. Then trim or strip the colors by maintaining a grip on the staff with the left hand and raising the right hand to lightly grasp the fabric of the colors. Pull it down along the staff (do not attempt to throw or tuck it) and re-grip the staff with the right hand, with the fabric under the right arm. (See figures 7-11c and d.) Then change the position of the right hand to that described for order colors.

5. Color guards armed with rifles will execute order arms from right and left shoulder as described in paragraph 7005.1a. All members of the color guard will halt their movements before executing the last count. The senior color bearer will then command “Ready, CUT,” at which time all members of the color guard will return their left hands smartly to their sides and color guards will assume order arms. (See figure 7-11e.)

7103. PRESENT COLORS FROM ORDER COLORS

1. To change from order colors to present colors the command is “Present, COLORS (ARMS).” Execution is begun on the preparatory command.

2. At the command “Present,” change the grip on the staff in the same manner as for carry colors. The national color bearer executes the movement to carry colors.

3. At the command “COLORS,” organizational color bearer executes the movement to carry colors. The color guards execute present arms. (See figure 7-12.)

4. On the senior color bearer’s command “Ready, CUT,” only the color bearers will move their left hands smartly to their sides.

7104. SALUTES BY THE ORGANIZATIONAL COLORS

1. Once the color guard is at present colors, and when appropriate, the organizational color bearer will render a salute with the organizational colors by straightening the right arm and lowering the staff naturally to the front. The staff will rotate naturally as it goes forward causing the sharp edge of the spearhead to face down. (See figure 7-13.)

2. Salutes by the organizational colors are not automatic when presenting colors. They will be rendered only during honors to national colors, to the commander of the organization represented by the colors or to an individual senior in rank to the organizational commander. (e.g., during a parade or review when the adjutant presents the command to the commander of troops, the organizational colors does not salute, unless the commander of troops is the organizational commander or of higher rank.)

3. When musical honors are played, the organizational colors will salute on the first note of music. The colors will be returned to the vertical position following the last note of music or the last volley of a gun salute. If no music is to be played and a color salute is appropriate, the organizational colors will salute immediately after the color guard has gone to present colors.

4. When marching, the salute is rendered when 6 paces from the reviewing stand or person to be saluted. Carry colors is resumed when 6 paces beyond the reviewing stand or person to be saluted.

7105. ORDER COLORS FROM PRESENT COLORS

1. When changing from present colors to order colors, the command is “Order, COLORS (ARMS).”

2. At the command “Order,” if the organizational colors are still saluting, it will be brought back to the vertical position with the flat side of the spearhead facing the front. The color bearers then grip the staff with the left hand above the ferrule and remove the staff from the sling socket. The staff remains centered on the body with the ferrule just forward of the sling socket. (See figure 7-11a.)

3. At the command “COLORS,” all colors are brought to the position of order colors. Color guards execute order arms from the shoulder as described in paragraph 7005.1a. Colors are trimmed, if necessary, and the command “Ready, CUT” is given in the same manner as for order colors from carry colors.

7106. PRESENT COLORS FROM CARRY COLORS

1. To change from carry colors to present colors, the command is “Present, COLORS (ARMS).”

2. At the command of execution “COLORS,” the color guards execute present from the shoulder as described in paragraph 7005.1d.

3. The national color bearer remains at carry colors.

4. The organizational color will salute if appropriate.

7107. CARRY COLORS FROM PRESENT COLORS

1. To change from present colors to carry colors, the command is “Carry, COLORS.”

2. At the command “Carry,” if the organizational colors are saluting, it will be brought back to the vertical position with the flat side of the spearhead facing the front.

3. At the command “COLORS,” color guards return to the shoulder as described in paragraph 7005.1f. Before executing the last count, the color guards will await the senior color bearers command “Ready, CUT.”

7108. RESTS WITH THE COLORS

1. The color guard assumes the parade rest position in lieu of at ease or rest. At ease or rest are not used by the color guard when carrying uncased colors. Only the senior color bearer or person in charge of a formation with which colors are posted gives the command from the position of order color. It is executed in one count.

2. At the command “Parade, REST;” “AT EASE;” or “REST,” all members of the color guard execute parade rest. The color staff will remain along the color bearer’s side and will not be thrust forward as with a guidon staff. (See figure 7-14.) The national and organizational colors bearers will grasp the sling socket with their left hand.

7109. EYES RIGHT (LEFT) FROM CARRY OR ORDER COLORS

1. The command is “Eyes, RIGHT (LEFT).” It will be given only when marching at carry colors or while halted at order colors.

2. When marching at carry color, at the command “RIGHT,” all members of the color guard except the national color bearer and the individual on the right turn their head and look 45 degrees to the right. When the reviewing officer of a parade is entitled to a salute by the organizational colors, the salute is executed at the command “RIGHT.” (See figure 7-15b.)

3. When marching at carry color, at the command “LEFT,” all members of the color guard except the national color bearer and the individual on the extreme left turn their head and look 45 degrees to the left. When the reviewing officer of a parade is entitled to a salute by the organizational colors, the salute is executed at the command “LEFT.”

4. When halted at order color, at the command “RIGHT,” all members of the color guard except the national color bearer turn their head and look 45 degrees to the right. (See figure 7-15a.) The organizational color cannot salute from order color.

5. When halted at order color, at the command “LEFT,” all members of the color guard except the national color bearer turn their head and look 45 degrees to the left. The organizational color cannot salute from order color.

7110. CARRY OR ORDER COLORS FROM EYES RIGHT (LEFT)

1. The command is “Ready, FRONT.”

2. When marching at carry colors, at the senior color bearer’s command “Ready,” if the organizational colors saluted, it resumes to the carry. At the command “FRONT,” all members of the color guard who executed eyes right (left) will return their head and eyes smartly to the front.

3. When at order colors during a review when the reviewing officer troops the line, ready front will not be given after eyes right. During such a ceremony, members of the color guard who executed eyes right, will follow the reviewing officer with their eyes, turning their heads back toward the front as he passes by. Once the reviewing officer is directly in front of them, all movement of the head and eyes is halted.

7111. TRAIL ARMS WITH THE COLORS

1. When performing indoor ceremonies in a location that the doors, ceilings, etc. are not high enough to carry colors in the normal manner, the colors would be carried at the trail.

2. Trail arms is assumed without command on any command that will cause the color guard to move. (e.g., “Forward, MARCH;” “Right Turn, MARCH;” etc.)

3. Color bearers, on the preparatory command, raise the staff 6 inches off the deck. Color guards assume trail arms. (See figure 7-16.)

4. On the command of execution, step off and move a short distance until given the command to halt.

NOTE: If necessary to lower the colors to clear a doorway reach across the body with the left hand and grasp the colors. Left forearm is straight and parallel to the deck, with the palm to the rear. All colors are tilted forward sufficiently to clear the door or ceiling spearhead flat to the front.

5. When the command to halt is given the color bearers return the colors to the order and move the left arm back to the left side. Color guards armed with rifles return to the order.

CHAPTER 7

NATIONAL AND ORGANIZATIONAL FLAGS

SECTION 2: MOVEMENTS OF THE COLOR GUARD.

7200. FACE THE COLOR GUARD TO THE RIGHT (LEFT)

1. The command is “Right (Left) Turn, MARCH.” It may be executed while halted, marking time, or marching.

2. On the command “MARCH,” with the right (left) flank color guard acting as a stationary pivot, the color guard turns to the right (left) while half stepping until they face the new direction. When making the turn, all members of the color guard face the same direction maintaining their alignment. (See figure 7-17.)

Upon completion of the turn, the color guard will be marking time. The senior color bearer must immediately give the next appropriate command, such as “Forward, MARCH” or “Colors, HALT.”

7201. FACE THE COLOR GUARD TO THE REAR

1. The command is “Countermarch, MARCH.” It may be executed while halted, marking time, or marching. When marking time or marching, the command of execution “MARCH” is given as the left foot strikes the deck. On the command of execution, the entire color guard takes one step forward with the right foot and executes the movement. (See figure 7-18.)

2. The national color bearer pivots to the left, moving into the position formerly occupied by the organizational color bearer, facing the new direction of march and begins marking time.

3. The organizational color bearer takes one half step forward, pivots to the right outside the national color bearer, moving into the position formerly occupied by the national color bearer, facing the new direction of march and begins marking time.

4. The right color guard takes two half-steps forward, pivots to the left, outside the organizational color bearer, moving into the position formerly occupied by the left color guard, facing the new direction of march and begins marking time.

5. The left color guard takes three half-steps forward, pivots to the right outside the right color guard, moving into the position formerly occupied by the right color guard, facing the new direction of march and begins marking time.

6. Upon completion of this movement, the entire color guard marks time until it is halted or until it receives the command “Forward, MARCH” or “Colors, HALT.”

7202. MOVEMENTS UTILIZED BY JOINT COLOR GUARDS (JCG). JCGs use two basic movements to turn the color guard 90 or 180 degrees. These are the “Right (Left) Wheel, MARCH” and the “Left About, MARCH.”

7203. RIGHT (LEFT) WHEEL. This movement is used to turn the JCG 90 degrees right or left and may be executed either from the halt, mark time, or quick time. In JCGs with an even number of members, the pivot point will be between the two, center color bearers. In JCGs with an odd number of members, the pivot point will be the spot occupied by the center color bearer.

1. On the command of execution “MARCH,” the JCG will start marking time. At the same time, they will begin to turn slowly to the right/left while maintaining their alignment. For “Right Wheel,” those to right of the pivot back step and those to the left half step until facing the new direction. This procedure is reversed for “Left Wheel.”

2. Once facing the new direction of march (90 degrees), the JCG will either halt or step off in the new direction, depending on commands by the senior color bearer.

7204. LEFT ABOUT. This movement is used to turn the JCG 180 degrees, and it may also be executed while halted, marking time, or quick time. On the command of execution “MARCH” it is executed in the same manner as above. The only exceptions are the pivot point; the degree of turn and it is only executed to the left.

CHAPTER 7

NATIONAL AND ORGANIZATIONAL FLAGS

SECTION 3: COLOR GUARD PROTOCOL

7300. GENERAL. The primary mission of the color guard is to ensure that the national colors is handled and displayed with the utmost care and respect. Upon receiving or uncasing the national colors, the color guard assumes a ceremonial posture; meaning that all movement will be by marching at attention and the most relaxed halted position will be parade rest.

7301. RECEIVING THE COLORS BY THE COLOR GUARD. The color guard will use the following procedure in receiving the colors: (See figure 7-21.)

1. The color guard forms and marches to the place designated for receiving the colors.

2. The color guard is halted 3 paces from the adjutant and sergeant major that have taken appropriate positions for the delivery of the colors to the guard.

3. The senior color bearer commands the color guard to “Order, ARMS.”

4. When the adjutant is ready to deliver the colors, the senior color bearer orders “Present, ARMS.” At this command, the color bearers execute a hand salute, the color guards present arms.

5. The adjutant steps to the left oblique and transfers the national colors to the senior color bearer, who terminates salute in time to receive it at the position of carry colors. The adjutant then steps back and salutes.

6. Upon the adjutant’s salute, the sergeant major, steps to the right oblique and transfers the organizational colors to the junior color bearer, who terminates salute in time to receive it at the position of carry colors. The senior enlisted then steps back and salutes.

7. When the senior enlisted salutes, the senior color bearer commands “Order, ARMS.” The adjutant and senior enlisted terminate their salutes and the command of “ARMS” and march off.

8. The senior color bearer then marches the color guard to the color company (battalion).

7302. RECEIVING THE COLORS BY THE COLOR COMPANY (BATTALION). Prior to forming for a ceremony in which the colors are to participate, the colors are to participate, the colors are received by the color company (battalion) by means of the following ceremony: (See figure 7-22.)

1. The company (battalion) is formed with its commander facing front.

2. The color guard approaches and halts 10 paces in front of and facing the company (battalion) commander remaining at the carry.

3. The company (battalion) commander faces about, towards the unit, and orders “Present, ARMS.” The color guard executes present arms on the company (battalion) commander’s command. The organizational colors salutes, if appropriate. The company (battalion) commander faces about again and salutes the colors.

4. The company (battalion) commander terminates salute, faces about, and commands “Order, ARMS.” The color guard returns to the carry.

5. The company (battalion) commander faces about and orders the color guard to “POST THE COLORS.” When the color company (battalion) is in line or mass, the post of the guard is 6 paces to the left of the company (battalion). When the company (battalion) is in column, the post of the guard is 6 paces behind.

6. When the color company (battalion) joins the formation, the color guard takes its appropriate post centered in the formation.

7. When in formation, the color guard executes parade rest when the color company (battalion) executes at ease or rest. The color guard will respond to all commands from the commander of troops or the commander of the color company (battalion) except when required by its unique movements to act independently.

7303. DISMISSING THE COLOR GUARD. In dismissing the color guard at the conclusion of a drill or ceremony, the procedure is as follows: (See figure 7-22.)

1. The guard marches from its post and halts 10 paces in front of and facing the company (battalion) commander, halts and remains at the carry.

2. The company (battalion) then executes present arms in the same manner described for receiving the colors, after which the color guard marches the colors to the quarters or office of the organizational commander.

3. The color guard is received by and dismissed from organizations smaller than a company (e.g., funeral escort) in a similar manner.

7304. RETURNING THE COLORS BY THE COLOR GUARD. The color guard will use the following procedure when parting with the colors: (See figure 7-21.)

1. The senior color bearer halts the guard 3 paces in front of the adjutant and senior enlisted who have taken positions near the office or quarters of the organization in time to receive the colors. The guard remains at carry colors.

2. When the color guard halts, the adjutant and senior enlisted salute. The Senior Enlisted, then terminates the salute and steps to the right oblique, receives the organizational colors from the junior color bearer, and then steps back.

3. The adjutant then terminates the salute and steps to the left oblique, receives the national colors from the senior color bearer, and then steps back.

4. The senior color bearer then commands “Present, ARMS.” The color guards execute present arms, the color bearers hand salute. The adjutant faces about and the senior enlisted passes behind him to a position on the left. They then march into the office or quarters of the commanding officer where the colors are placed without further ceremony.

5. When the colors are out of sight or 6 paces away, the senior color bearer commands “Order, ARMS,” and dismisses the guard or marches them back to their unit.

7305. CASING AND UNCASING THE COLORS

1. While it is not a precision movement, casing and uncasing the colors should be accomplished with appropriate dignity and ceremony.

2. To uncase the colors, the color guard will be formed at carry colors. The supernumerary or other designated individual(s) will center on the color guard.

First the national color bearer and then the organizational color bearer will lower their staffs so that the cases may be removed. The individual(s) removing the cases will then step back and salute the national colors before retiring. (See figure 7-23a.)

3. To case the colors, the color guard will be formed at carry colors. The individual(s) with the cases will center on the color guard and salute the national colors. The organizational color bearer followed by the national color bearer will lower their staffs so that their colors may be furled and cased. Rather than wrapping the colors around the staff, the colors should be folded on top of the staffs and held until the cases are slipped on. The rope and tassel and streamers, if any, are kept clear until the colors are folded onto the staff, and then are placed as flat as possible, on the colors. This may require two persons to accomplish. (See figure 7-23b.) Care should be taken to ensure that color cases fit easily over the colors. Cases constructed with too narrow of a diameter cause undue wrinkling and may even damage the colors.

7306. TROOPING THE COLORS

1. When it is desired to highlight the unit colors and have them formally received by the entire battalion (or regiment) while forming for a review, parade, or any other ceremony, the ceremony for trooping the colors may be conducted. It is particularly appropriate to include trooping the colors as a part of ceremonies conducted to coincide with an important event in the unit's history. However, if the colors are to be brought forward for a retirement, promotion, awards or other similar type ceremony the colors should not, but may, be trooped since this would cause the command to present arms to the colors twice. (Once when the colors are trooped and once when they are brought forward for the awards or other ceremony)

2. Procedures for Trooping the Colors

a. After forming at “Assembly,” the color guard receives the battalion (regimental) colors as prescribed in paragraph 7301. The color company may also receive the color guard per paragraph 7302, or the color guard may take its position on the battalion (regimental) parade deck independently. In the former case, coincidental with “Adjutant's Call,” the color guard initially marches on with the color company then breaks out of formation so as to take post on the left flank of the line of troops. In the latter case, the color guard marches independently on the parade ground and takes post on the left flank of the line of troops at “Adjutant's Call,” or prior to “Adjutant's Call,” as appropriate. (See figure 7-24.) Regardless, after taking post on the left flank, the color guard goes to order colors.

b. The troops form at “Adjutant's Call” according to the commands and procedures prescribed for forming a battalion (regiment) for ceremonies, up to the point where the units complete dressing to the right, the guides are posted (if units marched on), and bayonets are fixed (if so prescribed). Then, the adjutant facing the command and posted midway between the line of company (battalion) commanders and the battalion (regimental) commander, commands “MARCH ON THE COLORS.” The band plays appropriate music while the color guard, coming to the carry, marches from its position on the left flank, across the front of the battalion (regiment) along line parallel to the line of troops and midway between the adjutant and line of company (battalion) commanders. Company (battalion) commanders and the company guide (battalion staff) salute the colors as they pass their front. Those company (battalion) commanders who are not passed by the colors will not salute. On reaching a point in front of the adjutant, the color guard executes a left turn to face the adjutant and halts, remaining at the carry. The adjutant then commands “Present, ARMS” and salutes the colors. The unit presents arms. The color guard executes present arms from the carry. The band plays either “To the Colors” or the “National Anthem.” The battalion (regimental) commander and staff to salute on the first note of the music and terminate the salute on the last note. After completion of the music, the adjutant commands “Order, ARMS.” The color guard returns to carry color on the command “Order, ARMS.” The adjutant then commands “POST THE COLORS.” The color guard countermarches, moves to the line of troops on the left of the color company (battalion), countermarches to face the front, halts, and goes to order colors.

c. After the color guard is in position on the left of the color company (battalion), the parade or ceremony would proceed as prescribed in the appropriate chapter of this Manual.

7307. INDOOR CEREMONIES INVOLVING COLOR GUARDS

1. On occasion color guards will be required for indoor ceremonies, military or civilian. Normally an indoor ceremony consists of marching on the colors, the "National Anthem,” (or pledge of allegiance), posting the colors and retiring the colors. Close coordination with the master of ceremonies, and an on-site rehearsal (if possible) are needed to preclude confusion and misunderstandings during the ceremony.

2. The Normal Sequence of Events Should be as Follow

a. The master of ceremonies asks the guests to please rise for the march on the colors and to remain standing for the “National Anthem” and the posting of the colors.

b. The color guard marches in from the designated entry and moves to its position, and does a right (left) turn or countermarch to face the audience and remains at the carry. The senior color bearer then gives the command “Present, COLORS.” The color guard executes. After the “National Anthem” is played the senior color bearer gives the command “Carry, COLORS.” The senior color bearer would then give the commands necessary to move the color guard to 3 paces in front of where the colors are to be posted, halts and gives the command to “Order, COLORS.” Once the color guard is at the order, the organizational color bearer then steps to the right oblique and places the organizational colors in the stand.

Once the organizational color bearer is back in position the national color bearer steps to the left oblique and places the national colors into the stand. (See figure 7-25.) When the national color bearer is back in position the senior colorbearer commands “Present, ARMS.” The riflemen execute present arms and the color bearers execute a hand salute. The senior color bearer then commands “Order, ARMS;” “Shoulder, ARMS;” and then using whatever commands necessary, marches the color guard from the auditorium.

3. When it is time to retire the colors, the color guard assumes its position to re-enter the auditorium for that part of the ceremony.

a. The master of ceremonies would than ask for the guests to rise for the entering of the colors.

b. The color guard marches to a position 3 paces in front of where the colors are posted, halts and goes to the order. (See figure 7-25.) The senior color bearer then commands “Present, ARMS,” the riflemen execute present arms and the color bearers execute a hand salute. The senior color bearer then commands “Order, ARMS.” The color guard goes to the order. The national color bearer then steps to the left oblique and retrieves the national colors. When the national color bearer is back in position the organizational color bearer steps to the right oblique and retrieves the organizational colors. When the organizational color bearer is back in position the senior color bearer commands, “Carry, COLORS” and then, using whatever commands necessary, marches the color guard from the auditorium.

4. When performing and indoor ceremony, oddities will be encountered that will necessitate some adjustments by the color guard. Some examples are:

a. If performing in a house of worship, covers are not worn and weapons are not carried. Those portions of the ceremony requiring present arms are deleted and the riflemen may be omitted.

b. The ceiling may be too low to carry colors; march in at the trail.

c. The aisles may be to narrow for a color guard to march in normal formation.

The color guard would then march in by two's (See figure 7-26) or in column of ones. (See figure 7-27.) If marching in by twos then the color bearers lead and the riflemen follow. Upon reaching the spot for presenting the colors, the riflemen would step into their normal position. If marching in a column of ones the order of march is ALWAYS, right color guard, national color bearer, organizational color bearer, left color guard. When reaching their spot the color guard would reform. Make sure the colors don't reform inverted.

d. The flag stands you will be posting the colors into may be on different sides of the stage. If this occurs, the recommended sequence is:

(1) Execute the ceremony as discussed earlier.

(2) After the “National Anthem” the colors countermarch and halt facing the new direction. The senior color bearer would command post the colors. The national color bearer and right rifleman step off to the left oblique and move to the flag stand and mark time. The right rifleman positions himself so as to be outboard of the national colors. After the national color bearer and right rifleman have cleared, the organizational color bearer and left rifleman step off in the right oblique and move to the flag stand and mark time. The left rifleman positions himself so as to be outboard of the organizational colors. (See figure 7-28.) Once both colors are in position the senior color bearer commands “Colors, HALT,” and “Order, COLORS.” The organizational colors is placed in the flag stand, then the national colors is placed in the flag stand. The senior color bearer then commands “Present, ARMS.” The riflemen execute present arms and the color bearers execute a hand salute. The senior color bearer then commands “Order, ARMS;” “Center, FACE;” and “Forward, MARCH.” The riflemen march at trail arms. The color guard moves to the center of the stage and marks time, slowly turning left or right towards the audience. The senior color bearer then commands, “Colors, Halt;” “Shoulder, ARMS;” and then marches the color guard from the auditorium.

(3) To retire the colors from separated flagpoles, the detail is marched into position facing the colors and halts. The senior color bearer then commands “Present, ARMS.” The color guard riflemen execute present arms and the color bearers execute a hand salute. The senior color bearer then commands “Shoulder, ARMS.” The riflemen return to the shoulder. The national color bearer and right rifleman then step off to the left oblique and move to the flag stand and mark time. The right rifleman positions himself so as to be outboard of the national colors. After the national color bearer and right rifleman have cleared, the organizational color bearer and left rifleman step off in the right oblique and move to the flag stand and mark time. The left rifleman positions himself so as to be outboard of the organizational colors. (See figure 7-25.) Once all are in position the senior color bearer commands “Colors, HALT,” and “Order, ARMS.” The senior color bearer then retrieves the national colors. The organizational color bearer then retrieves the organizational colors. The senior color bearer then commands “Center, FACE,” and “Forward, MARCH.” The color guard, at trail arms, moves to the center of the stage and marks time, slowly turning left or right towards the audience. The senior color bearer then commands “Colors, HALT;” “Carry, COLORS;” and then marches the color guard from the auditorium.

e. The rule of thumb for all unusual situations not covered by this Manual is to perform in a military manner. However, never do something that would embarrass the Corps.

7308. ORDERING COLORS, STAFFS AND OTHER CEREMONIAL GARRISON PROPERTY

1. Instructions for ordering flags, streamers, guidons and other heraldic items is found in MCO P10520.3B, section G. The list in appendix C contains the description, and National Stock Numbers of flags, staffs and other color guard equipment. The unit supply officer should be able to assist in finding the current prices and ordering the equipment.

2. Table 1, section E of MCO P10520.3B is used to determine which type of organizational color a unit rates.