Honor Guard

Training Manual
Color Guard and Detail
Ceremonies and Flag Retirement

Thank you for participating in our

training today.

We hope you have learned

something new you can take back to
your unit and share with your fellow
Scouts and Scouters.

Training Team: Grace Ludena, Susan Abernethy, Produced for San Diego Imperial Council
Joshua Persons, Frederick Persons, Peter Le, Kimberly Youth Scout Units by:
Bozarth, Dan Bozarth • Dan Bozarth, SDIC ACC for
Roundtable
If you have questions don’t hesitate to reach out to • Kimberly Bozarth, SDIC ACC for
Susan Abernethy at sabernet@sbcglobal.net Roundtable

Edited for Circle 10 Council by Susan Abernethy

36
 Table of Contents

History 3
Flag Etiquette 4-5
Color Guard / Detail Uniform 6
Worn Flag, Flags as Gifts, Ordering Flags 7
Color Guard Stage Ceremony, Script 1 8-9
Color Detail Stage Ceremony, Script 2 10-11
Outdoor Flagpole Guard Ceremony, Script 3 12-13
Outdoor Flagpole Detail Ceremony, Script 4 14-15
Recovering Colors, Script 5 16
Tying a Halyard 16
Ceremony of Final Tribute 17
Burning Flag Retirement Ceremonies 18-21
Partitioning Flag Retirement Ceremonies 22-23
Flag History 24-27
Patriotic Songs 28-33
References 34

2 35
References
Scout Handbooks—“The American Flag”
“Your Flag” - Available at the Scout Shop
US Flag Code—U.S. Code: Table Of Contents | U.S. Code | US Law
| LII / Legal Information Institute (cornell.edu)
BSA Guide to Insignia—https://www.scouting.org/resources/
insignia-guide/
34
Color Guard and Flag Ceremonies
A Little History
The Color Guard of the 21st century is primarily ceremonial in terms of
purpose and duty. However, the origins of the Color Guard are based in
military practicality. The following is a concise history of the origin of the
Color Guard.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, flags were commonly referred to as
“the Colors.” These colors were of primary importance to the military
regiment or brigade as the line of battle was formed around the colors
of the unit which were placed at the center of the line. These colors were
easily seen through the smoke of battle. If the colors advanced, the line
would advance. If the colors retired, the line would retire. As battles
would progress and casualties mounted, the line would contract to the
colors. In effect, the colors would serve as a rallying point if the line was
broken or the men became dispersed. Thus, success in battle was often
dependent on the handling of the colors.
The importance of the colors was so significant that a ceremony was
performed before battle called “The Trooping of the Colors.” The men of
the regiment or brigade were assembled on the parade ground in camp
and the colors were paraded before them. This way, each man would see
and thus be certain of his colors before taking the field of battle.
Likewise, while there could be many diverse objectives in a battle, one of
the most important was capturing of the colors of the enemy unit. This
would deprive the enemy of their primary means of control and rallying
point during the battle. To prevent this, regiments and brigades would
select the most valiant men to protect the colors and color bearer. These
men comprised the “Color’s Guard,” a posting of great honor and source
of pride. As in years past, this posting continues to be a position of honor.
3
 Patriotic Songs
Color Guard and Flag Ceremonies

Flag Etiquette On Flanders field in World War one

When we respect the Flag, we respect the men and women who sacrificed
to build this country and protect its freedom. When we honor the Flag,
we honor our country, our people, and ourselves.
The next time you see our country’s Flag, think of the unique and
wonderful freedoms we enjoy as Americans!
Our Flag represents a living country - the U.S.A. - and is considered a
living thing!
• When you take your Flag out to fly, hold it carefully.
• You are holding the whole country in your hands.
• It needs your care, treat it well.
• Display it so it always looks its best.
The Flag is coming down the street! Do you know what to do?
• Face the Flag. When it is 6 steps away...You stand at attention with
your right hand over your heart…until it is 6 steps past you.
• People in uniform, and veterans, salute the Flag.
• You also show the same respect when our National Anthem is played.
Good morning Flag! Good night Flag!
• Always raise the Flag briskly - Good morning!
• Always lower the Flag respectfully - Good night.
• Never let the Flag touch the ground.
• Store the Flag so it’s dry and safe and won’t get torn.
She got a big hole from a Bertha gun
She turned blood red in World War Two
She hung limp and low a time or two
She was in Korea and Vietnam
She went where she was sent by Uncle Sam.
She waved from our ships upon the Briny foam
And now they’ve about quit waving her back here at home.
In her own good land here she’s been abused
She’s been burned, dishonored, denied, and refused
And the government for which she stands
Has been scandalized throughout the land.
And she’s getting threadbare and she’s wearin’ thin
But she’s in good shape for the shape she’s in
‘Cause she’s been through the fire before
And I believe she can take a whole lot more.
So we raise her up every morning
We take her down every night
We don’t let her touch the ground and we fold her up right
On second thought, I do like to brag
‘Cause I’m mighty proud of that ragged old flag.

Flying our Flag at Home

• Use a horizontal or diagonal staff from a window or doorway or wall.
• Another good way to fly a Flag is on a flagpole.
• Our Flag is always at the top, first and above any others on the same
staff or pole.
• The Flag should fly free in the wind, away from trees and wires.
4 33
 Patriotic Songs
Color Guard and Flag Ceremonies

Ragged Old Flag

©1974, Johnny Cash

(Spoken Word)

I walked through a county courthouse square

On a park bench an old man was sitting there
I said, your old courthouse is kinda run down
He said, naw, it’ll do for our little town
I said, your old flagpole has leaned a little bit
And that’s a ragged old flag you got hanging on it.
He said, have a seat, and I sat down
Is this the first time you’ve been to our little town?
I said, I think it is
He said, I don’t like to brag
But we’re kinda proud of that ragged old flag.

You see, we got a little hole in that flag there when

Washington took it across the Delaware
And it got powder-burned the night Francis Scott Key
Sat watching it writing Say can you see
And it got a bad rip in New Orleans
With Packingham and Jackson tuggin’ at its seams
And it almost fell at the Alamo
Beside the Texas flag, but she waved on though
She got cut with a sword at Chancellorsville
And she got cut again at Shiloh Hill
There was Robert E. Lee, Beauregard, and Bragg
And the south wind blew hard on that ragged old flag.

(continued next page)

32 5

Color Guard and Flag Ceremonies
Color Guard/Detail Uniform
Field Uniform Shirt (Class A) – Be sure all your insignia is correct. Here is a
link to the Guide to Insignia: https://www.scouting.org/resources/insignia-guide/
Scout Pants – This can be the canvas long or microfiber switchbacks. Be sure the
entire team is uniform, so if one is wearing shorts, everyone is wearing shorts.
Scout Belt – Leather with belt buckle or a woven belt works. Each team member
can wear their choice of belt but the team all needs to wear one.
Scout Socks – Depending on what other accessories the team chooses to wear,
the socks may or may not be seen. BSA socks are a good idea, especially if nothing
is covering that area. Socks will be exposed as the team walks.
Neckerchief/Slide – If team is all from the same unit, this detail looks great. It’s
all or nothing, though. If someone forgot their neckerchief, all should go without.
Uniform Hat (unit ballcap, campaign hat, BSA hat) – If team comes from same
unit or same activity (NYLT, Jamboree, etc., matching hats look great. If team
doesn’t have matching hats, see option below.
Activity Type of Shoe (hiking boots, activity shoe) – This is going to especially
be important on a parade walk. Comfortable shoes such as hiking shoes/boots
and other activity shoes work best. Athletic shoes such as white tennis shoes are
not recommended.
Merit Badge/OA Sash – Depending on the activity you are performing for, you
want to be in your dress uniform. Merit badge and OA sashes are ideal for this.
Optional
• Spats—(a shortening of spatterdashes,
or spatter guards are a type of classic
footwear accessory for outdoor wear,
covering the instep and the ankle.
Spats are distinct from gaiters, which
are garments worn over the lower
trouser leg as well as the shoe.)
• Beret
• White Gloves
• Shoulder Cords
• White Belts / Flag Holders
6 31
Patriotic Songs
America (My Country, ‘Tis Of Thee)
My country tis of thee, Sweet land of liberty, Of thee I sing.
Land where my fathers died! Land of the Pilgrim’s pride! From
every mountain side, Let freedom ring!
My native country, thee, Land of the noble free, Thy name I love.
I love thy rocks and rills, Thy woods and templed hills;
My heart with rapture fills Like that above.
Let music swell the breeze, And ring from all the trees Sweet
freedom’s song.
Let mortal tongues awake; Let all that breathe partake;
Let rocks their silence break, The sound prolong.
Our father’s God to Thee, Author of liberty, To Thee we sing.
Long may our land be bright With freedom’s holy light;
Protect us by Thy might, Great God, our King!
SONG LEADER TIPS
Singing is fun...remember...Singing is fun! Songs can create enthusiasm or set a quiet
and serious mood. Learning to lead songs is an essential skill for any scout leader. It
takes time and practice, but the following suggestions will help speed the process:
• Relax, have fun, SMILE!
• Have a variety of songs available that are applicable to the age group and know
them by heart.
• Plan a sequence of songs in advance so there are no slow-downs in the program.
• At campfires, match the song to the fire: loud songs for a bright fire, quieter
songs as the fire dies down.
• Keep your sense of humor—remember that if the spirit of the occasion is right,
even flat notes are fun.
• Begin with an active, familiar and popular song. Pitch the song before starting. If
you find the pitch is wrong, don’t be afraid to change it.
• An instrumental background adds atmosphere and variety.
To teach a song, sing it until everyone is familiar with the melody. Invite scouts to
hum along as you sing. Then teach the words by singing a line and having
the campers repeat it. At the end of each verse or section, combine the lines so
far presented and sing them together as a review.
 Patriotic Songs
Color Guard and Flag Ceremonies
God Bless the USA
by Lee Greenwood

If tomorrow all the things were gone, I’d worked for all my life.
And I had to start again, with just my children and my wife.
I’d thank my lucky stars, to be livin’ here today.
‘Cause the flag still stands for freedom, and they can’t take that away.
Chorus
And I’m proud to be an American, where at least I know I’m free.
And I won’t forget the men who died, who gave that right to me.
And I gladly stand up, next to you and defend her still today.
‘Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land, God bless the USA.
What do I do when my Flag is worn out?
• When your Flag is no longer in a condition to be displayed with
honor, it should be destroyed in a dignified way, by burning.
• Best - Flag Disposal Ceremonies are held during the year by
The American Legion and the VFW.
• Or - burning it in a private place, in a dignified ceremony such
as a Scout Campfire.

From the lakes of Minnesota, to the hills of Tennessee.

Across the plains of Texas, From sea to shining sea
From Detroit down to Houston, and New York to L.A. Presenting the Flag as a Gift
Well there’s pride in every American heart,
And its time we stand and say.
Chorus
Of course, anyone can give a Flag as a special gift.
• A Flag Presentation is always a ceremony. Some are brief; some
are elaborate programs.
Yankee Doodle • It begins with a speaker announcing who is presenting the Flag
Yankee Doodle went to town A-Riding on a pony and to whom the Flag is being presented, and why.
Stuck a feather in his cap And called it macaroni • The Flag is presented properly folded.
• The person receiving the Flag makes an acceptance speech.
Chorus
Yankee Doodle keep it up, Yankee Doodle Dandy
Mind the music and the step, And with the girls be handy
Order Flags
Father and I went down to camp Along with Captain Gooding https://www.cruz.senate.gov/services/flag-requests
There were all the men and boys As thick as hasty pudding
Chorus

And there was Captain Washington Upon a strapping stallion

Giving orders to his men I guess there were a million
Chorus

Yankee Doodle is a tune That comes in mighty handy

The enemy all runs away at Yankee Doodle Dandy
Chorus
30 7
 Patriotic Songs

Script 1, Color Guard Stage Ceremony Star Spangled Banner

O say can you see, by the dawn’s early light,
Equipment and Personnel What so proudly we hailed at the twilight’s last gleaming,
Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight,
• US Flag
O’er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?
• Secondary Flag (State, Unit, Organization, Memorial) And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
• Uniform (See Page 23) Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there;
• Parade Rifles or Sabers O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave
• 5 Scouts: 1 Lead (Caller), 2 Flag Bearers (or 1 Flag Bearer per Flag), 2 O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?
Guards
Opening God Bless America
God bless America, land that I love.
Lead walks to Stage with Military Bearing and performs an about-face. Stand beside her, and guide her,
Emcee—”Audience Rise” Through the night with the light from above.
From the mountains, to the prairies,
Lead—“Color Guard, Advance” To the oceans, white with foam –
Flag Bearers and Guards advance in step using available space (4 abreast or God bless America! My home, sweet home.
2x2), Flags then Guards. God bless America! My home, sweet home.

Lead—“Color Guard, Halt”

This Land is Your Land
Color Guard will halt at the stage (reform 4 abreast) This land is your land, This land is my land
Lead—“Color Guard, Cross Colors” From California to the New York island;
From the red wood forest to the Gulf Stream waters
Note the American Flag travels on the right of a line and is always This land was made for you and me.
positioned “Audience Left” on any type of stage. This requires the American
Flag and secondary flag to cross the stage to be correctly positioned. As I was walking that ribbon of highway,
I saw above me that endless skyway:
Flags will cross the stage. American Flag will step off first followed one step I saw below me that golden valley:
behind by the secondary Flag. This land was made for you and me.
Lead—”Guards about face, render honors”
I’ve roamed and rambled, and I followed my footsteps
Guards will about-face to face the audience and create a salute with the To the sparkling sands of her diamond deserts;
Saber or Rifle. And all around me a voice was sounding:
Lead—“Post the ______ Flag” This land was made for you and me.
Name the flag...i.e. State of Texas or Unit 123, or VFW Post 12 When the sun came shining, and I was strolling,
Lead—“Post the Flag of the United States of America. And the wheat fields waving and the dust clouds rolling,
As the fog was lifting a voice was chanting:
This land was made for you and me.
8 29
 Patriotic Songs
America the Beautiful
O beautiful for spacious skies, For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties Above the fruited plain.
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood From sea to shining sea.
O beautiful for pilgrim feet, Whose stern impassioned stress
A thoroughfare for freedom beat Across the wilderness.
America! America! God mend thine ev’ry flaw,
Confirm thy soul in self control, Thy liberty in law.
O beautiful for patriot dream That sees beyond the years
Thine alabaster cities gleam, Undimmed by human tears.
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood, From sea to shining sea.
You’re a Grand Old Flag
You’re a grand old flag,
You’re a high flying flag
And forever in peace may you wave.
You’re the emblem of The land I love.
The home of the free and the brave.
Ev’ry heart beats true
‘Neath the Red, White and Blue,
Where there’s never a boast or brag.
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
Keep your eye on the grand old flag.
28
Lead—Hand over your heart or if in Uniform, Scout Salute. Please
Join Me in the Pledge of Allegiance”
Say Pledge of Allegiance, finish with - “2”
Lead—”Guards, secure swords, Guards about-face”
Lead—“Color Guard Salute the Flag of the United States of America”
Lead turns to face flag. Flag Bearers and Guards perform a maneuver to
face the Flag and Salute. Guards will Shoulder Rifles or Secure Sabers before
they turn.
Lead—“2”
Lead—“Color Guard, Reform”
Lead takes 4 paces away from the stage. Flag Bearers and Guards form up
2x2 behind Lead
Lead—“Color Guard, Retreat”
Flag opening is complete.
Closing
Color Guard will return to collect colors after the event is complete. As
before the Lead will walk forward in a patriotic manner.
Lead—“Color Guard, Advance ”
Flag Bearers and Guards advance to the stage. Flag Bearers will walk
straight to the Flags
Lead—“Color Guard, Retrieve Colors ”
Flag Bearers pull flags from the stands. Then wait for orders
Lead—“Color Guard, Reform”
Lead moves 4 paces from stage. As before, Color Guard reforms behind Lead
Lead—“Color Guard, Retreat”
Color Guard retreats to back of room.
End of ceremony
9
 Flag History

Script 2, Color Detail Stage Ceremony

Equipment and Personnel
• US Flag
• Secondary Flags (State, Unit, Organization, Historic, Memorial)
• Uniform (See Page 23)
• 5 Scouts: 1 Lead (Caller), 2 Flag Bearers, 2 Guards
Opening
Lead walks to Stage with Military Bearing and performs an about face.
Lead—“Color Detail, Advance”
Flag Bearers, (abreast or 2x2) advance in step using available space.
Lead—“Color Detail, Halt”
Color Detail will halt at the stage (reform abreast)
Lead—“Color Detail, Cross Colors”
Note – the American Flag travels on the right of a line and is always
positioned “Audience Left” on any type of stage this requires the American
Flag and secondary flag to cross the stage to be correctly positioned.
Flags will cross the stage. American Flag will step off first followed one step
behind by the secondary Flag.
Lead—“Post the _______ Flag”
Name the flag...i.e. State of Texas or Unit 123, or VFW Post 12. Lead will
repeat this line until all flags except the US Flag are posted
Lead—“Post the Flag of the United States of America”
Lead—“Hand over your heart or if in Uniform Scout Salute. Please
Join Me in the Pledge of Allegiance”
Say Pledge of Allegiance, finish with “2”
Lead—“Color Detail, Salute the Flag of the United States of America”
Flag Bearers perform a maneuver to face the Flag and Salute.
10
The Great Star
Flag of 1818
By 1818, the union consisted of 20 states.
A Congressional act mandated that the
number of stripes be fixed at 13 and that
one new star was to be added for each new state, the July 4 following its
admission. However, nothing was written about what arrangement the
stars should be in. These three flags were all used simultaneously.
The Texas State Flag
The flag of Texas is a resounding
symbol of the history of Texas, a symbol
of how hard they had to fight for their
land. It makes sense that Texas is the
only state whose flag once belonged to
a sovereign country. While Texas had
gone through its last official flag change
in 1870, it should be noted that in 1939
the Congress of Texas voted to change the state flag. It went from a flag
with a bright yellow star in the middle of a dark blue background to the
flag we know today.
The state flag consists of a rectangle with a width to length ratio of two to
three containing: a blue vertical stripe one-third the entire length of the
flag wide, and two equal horizontal stripes, the upper stripe white, the
lower red, each two-thirds the entire length of the flag long; and a white,
regular five-pointed star in the center of the blue stripe, oriented so that
one point faces upward, and of such a size that the diameter of a circle
passing through the five points of the star is equal to three-fourths the
width of the blue stripe. 27
 Flag History

Cowpens Flag.
According to some sources, this flag was
first used in 1777. It was used by the Third Lead—“2”
Maryland Regiment. There was no official
pattern for how the stars were to be arranged. Lead—“Color Detail, Reform”
The flag was carried at the Battle of Cowpens, Lead takes 4 paces away from the stage. Flag Bearers form up 2 x 2 behind
which took place on January 17, 1781, in South Carolina. The actual flag Lead
from that battle hangs in the Maryland State House. Lead—“Color Detail, Retreat”
Flag Bearers Retreat.
The Star Spangled Banner Flag Flag opening is complete.
By 1795, Vermont and Kentucky had joined
the Union, bringing the number of states to 15.
The new flag, featuring 15 stars and 15 stripes,
flew over the nation for the next 23 years
Closing
and the administrations of five presidents. It
was this flag that flew over Fort McHenry the memorable night of its Color Detail will return to collect colors after the event is complete. As
bombardment by the British in 1814, inspiring Francis Scott Key to write before the Lead will walk forward in a patriotic manner.
the verses of our national anthem. That actual flag is now preserved in Lead—“Color Detail, Advance ”
the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
Flag Bearers advance to the stage and walk straight to the Flags.
Let us honor the flag by singing the first verse of the song it inspired.
Lead—“Color Detail, Retrieve Colors ”
Flag Bearers pull flags from the stands. Then wait for orders.
The 46 Star Flag of 1908
By 1908, the United States of America had Lead—“Color Detail, Reform”
grown to encompass states from the Atlantic Lead moves 4 paces from stage. As before, Color Detail Reforms behind
to the Pacific. Nearly all the territory had Lead.
also been recognized with statehood. When Lead—“Color Detail, Retreat”
Oklahoma joined the Union, the U.S. flag
changed to include 46 stars, a design that would last for only four years Color Detail retreats to back of room.
and changed the administrations of two presidents, Theodore Roosevelt End of ceremony
and William Taft. For us there is further significance. This is the flag that
was flying over America in 1910 when the Boy Scouts of America had its
beginnings.
Let us honor this flag with a song that also honors our nation; let us
honor our nation with a song that also honors the land.
26 11

Script 3, Outdoor Flagpole Guard Ceremony
This ceremony is used on parade grounds where the Color Guard will be
raising and lowering Flags on 2 to 3 Flagpoles
Equipment and Personnel
• American Flag
• Up to 2 additional Flags (State, Unit, Organization, Historic, Special
Presentation)
• Uniforms (see page 23)
• Parade Rifles or Sabers
• 5 to 9 Scouts: 1 Lead (Caller), 2-6 Flag Bearers (2 Scouts per flag), 2
Guards
Opening
Color Guard will be formed with 2 American Flag Bearers (transporting
1 folded Flag) in the center flanked by 2 Guards with Parade Rifles or
Sabers. The remaining Flag Bearers will be lined up 2x2 directly behind the
American Flag Bearers.
Lead walks from outside Flag ceremony area to Flagpoles and does a right
face and moves to a position 4 to 6 feet from the Stage Right Flagpole.
Lead—“Color Guard, Advance”
Color Guard will march in step to the Flagpoles. As they reach the
Flagpoles, the American Flag Bearers and Guards will position themselves
at the center Flagpole, the remaining 2 sets of Flag Bearers will align with
the 2 remaining Flagpoles. State Flag stage Right. The other Flag Stage Left.
If there are only 2 Flagpoles the American Flag is always flown Stage right
(audience left).
Lead—“Color Guard, Prepare to display the American Flag”
Color Guard unfolds Flag until it is just folded in half
Lead—“Color Guard, Display the American Flag”
Saber/Rifle Bearers come to attention and salute the American Flag with
saber or rifle. (note, they will remain in this position until audience salute is
complete.) Color Guard, with a snap, unfolds the flag and displays it for all
to see.
Lead—“Color Guard, Raise The American Flag”
12
Flag History
The Guildford Flag
The Guilford Courthouse Flag was a North
Carolina militia banner flown at the Battle
of Guilford Courthouse (March 15, 1781, Greensboro, North Carolina).
The flag is recognizable by the reverse colors normally seen on American
flags: red and blue stripes in the field with eight-pointed blue stars on an
elongated white canton. The unique colors and dimensions are sometimes
described as showing a lack of uniformity in a young nation at war, with
a poor infrastructure and bad communication. However, it was common
practice during the Revolution for military units to carry flags that featured
common American symbols (such as stripes and stars), but to make them
uniquely identifiable as a company or regimental flag.
The Serapis Flag.
Designed with 13 stripes alternating red, white,
and blue, this flag was raised by Captain John
Paul Jones aboard the British frigate Serapis
during the most famous naval battle of the
revolutionary War . In 1779, after conducting sea
raids on the coast of Britain, Jones took command
of a rebuilt French merchant ship, renamed the U.S.S. Bonhomme Richard in
honor of Benjamin Franklin. In September, Jones engaged the British frigate
Serapis in the North Sea, fighting the battle at point-blank range. When two
cannons exploded on the Bonhomme Richard, the British Captain asked
Jones if he was ready to surrender. Jones replied, “Sir, I have not yet begun
to fight!” Though the Bonhomme Richard was severely damaged, the crew of
the Serapis eventually surrendered. The American sailors boarded the Serapis
and watched from the deck as the Bonhomme Richard sank.
The Bennington Flag
According to some, two famous flags were flown
at the Battle of Bennington. This one is called
the Bennington Flag or the Fillmore Flag. The
story goes that Nathaniel Fillmore took it home
from the battlefield, and it was passed through
generations of Fillmores, including Millard. Most experts doubt this story
and date the flag to about 1820. The other (not pictured) has a green field
and a blue canton with 13 gold-painted stars arranged in rows. General John
Stark rallied his New Hampshire troops: “My men, yonder are the Hessians.
They were brought for seven pounds and ten pence a man. Are you worth
more? Prove it. Tonight, the American flag floats from yonder hill or Molly
Stark sleeps a widow!
25
 Flag History
The Grand Union Flag
The “Grand Union” shown here is also called The
“Cambridge Flag.” It was flown over Prospect Hill,
overlooking Boston, January 1, 1776. In the canton
(the square in the corner) are the crosses of Saint
Andrew and Saint George, borrowed from the British flag.
The Betsy Ross Flag
The Flag Resolution did not specify the arrangement
of the stars nor the specific proportions of the flag. So
many 13-star flags were used, as seen from the next
several pictures.
The Flag of 1777
With the signing of the Declaration of Independence,
the new American nation needed a flag of its own. On
June 14th, 1777, Congress passed this resolution:
“Resolved: That the flag of the thirteen United States by thirteen
stripes alternate red and white: that the union be thirteen stars,
white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”
Each star and each stripe represented one of the colonies that would
become the United States. The Flag of 1777 flew over the young nation for
18 years. George Washington was the only president to serve under this
banner. To this day, June 14, the birthday of our flag, is celebrated each
year as Flag Day.
24
The 2 Flag Bearers work together to get the Flag clipped in place, raise it
briskly, and secure the lanyard to the pole.
Lead—“Hand over your heart or if in Uniform, Scout Salute. Please
Join Me in the Pledge of Allegiance”
Say Pledge of Allegiance, finish with - “2”
When the second flagpole is in use, address the flagpole at Stage Right
Lead—“Color Guard, Prepare to display the Flag of the Great State of
Texas (or whatever Flag is being used)”
Color Guard unfolds Flag until it is just folded in half
Lead—“Color Guard, Display the Flag of the Great State of Texas”
Color Guard, with a snap, unfolds the flag and displays it for all to see.
Lead—“Color Guard, Raise the Flag of the Great State of Texas (or
whatever Flag is being used)”
The 2 Flag Bearers work together to get the Flag clipped in place, raise it
briskly, and secure the lanyard to the pole.
When the third flagpole is in use, address the Flagpole at Stage left.
Lead—“Color Guard, Prepare to display the (name the Flag)”
Color Guard unfolds Flag until it is just folded in half
Lead—“Color Guard, Display the (name the Flag)”
Color Guard, with a snap, unfolds the flag and displays it for all to see.
Lead—“Color Guard, raise the (name the Flag)”
The 2 Flag Bearers work together to get the Flag clipped in place, raise it
briskly, and secure the lanyard to the pole. At this point the Lead can Read
a story about the Flag, or lead a patriotic Song (see appendix pages 24-27)
Lead—“Color Guard, Salute the Flag of the United States of America”
Flag Bearers and Guards perform a maneuver to face the Flag and Salute.
Guards will Shoulder Rifles or Secure Sabers before they turn.
Lead—“Color Guard, Reform”
Color Guard Reforms in the same formation they entered.
Lead—“Color Guard, Retreat”
Color Guard walks in formation off the parade field. Lead follows Color
Guard out.
End of ceremony
13

Script 4, Outdoor Flagpole Detail Ceremony
This ceremony is used on parade grounds where the Color Detail will be
raising and lowering Flags on 2 to 3 Flagpoles
Equipment and Personnel
• American Flag
• Up to 2 additional Flags (State, Unit, Organization, Historic, Special
• Presentation)
• Uniforms (See page 23)
• 5 to 7 Scouts: 1 Lead (Caller), 2-6 Flag Bearers from (2 Scouts per
flag)
Ceremony
Color Detail will be formed with 2 American Flag Bearers (transporting 1
folded Flag) in the center. The remaining Flag Bearers will be lined up 2x2
directly behind the American Flag Bearers.
Lead walks from outside Flag ceremony area to Flagpoles and the does a
right face and moves to a position 4 to 6 feet from the Stage Right Flagpole.
Lead—“Color Detail, Advance”
Color Detail will march in step to the Flagpoles. As they reach the Flagpoles
the American Flag Bearers will position themselves at the center Flagpole,
the remaining 2 sets of Flag Bearers will align with the 2 remaining
Flagpoles. State Flag stage Right. The other Flag Stage left. If there are only 2
Flagpoles, the American Flag is always flown Stage right (audience left).
Lead—“Color Detail, Prepare to display the American Flag”
Color Detail unfolds Flag until it is just folded in half
Lead—“Color Detail, Display the American Flag”
Color Detail, with a snap, unfolds the flag and displays it for all to see.
Lead—“Color Detail, Raise The American Flag”
The 2 Flag Bearers work together to get the Flag clipped in place, raise it
briskly, and secure the lanyard to the pole.
Lead—“Hand over your heart or if in Uniform, Scout Salute.
Please Join Me in the Pledge of Allegiance” Say Pledge of Allegiance,
finish with - “2”
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Script 7, Flag Partitioning Retirement
Adult Leader: The U.S. flag is more than just some brightly colored cloth.
it is a symbol of our nation.
Scout #1: Seven red stripes and six white stripes; together they represent
the original 13 colonies that gained us liberty.
Scout #2: The red stripes remind us of the lifeblood of brave men and
women who were ready to die for this, their country.
Scout #3: The white stripes remind us of purity and cleanliness of
purpose, thought, word and deed.
Scout #4: The blue is for truth and justice, like the eternal blue of the star-
filled heavens.
Scout #5: The stars represent the fifty sovereign states of our union.
Adult Leader or SPL: The U.S. flag should be treated with respect
when it’s flying, and it should be treated with respect when it’s being
retired.
Scout #6: The American Creed states, “it is my duty to my country to love
it, to respect its Constitution, to obey its laws, to respect its flag, and to
defend it against all enemies.”
Scout #7: Therefore, we retire flags with dignity and respect when they
become worn, torn, faded, or badly soiled.
Scout #8: A flag ceases to be a flag when it is cut into pieces. We cut the
flag into four pieces: three red and white striped banners and the blue
star field. We leave the blue field intact because no one should ever let the
union be broken.
The flag is partitioned.
Adult Leader or SPL: As the parts of the flag are collected remember...
Old Flags never die, they just get fired up! This Flag, being synthetic
will be packaged and disposed of in an incinerator or buried safely and
honorably. This concludes this ceremony. Thank you for attending.
23
Ceremonial Partitioning
When a Flag is made of Non-Organic material, there are other options to
retirement other than burning in the open air.
When the United States flag (Old Glory) becomes worn, torn, faded
or badly soiled, it is time to replace it with a new flag, and the old flag
should be “retired” with all the dignity and respect befitting our nation’s
flag. The traditional method of retirement is to incinerate the flag.
An alternative method to this is to partition the flag. A flag ceases to be
a flag when it is cut into pieces. A flag should never be torn up like an
old bed sheet. It should be cut up with scissors or shears in a methodical
manner. The corners of the flag should be stretched out over a table top
and someone should cut the flag in half, vertically (be careful not to cut
up the blue star field (see the figure). Then, place the two halves together
and cut them in half, horizontally. You will end up with four pieces of
flag, one being the blue star field. The stripes should then be cut free from
one another, completing the process of partitioning the flag. At this point
the flag may be disposed of.
A version of ceremonially disposing of the pieces is to say the name of a
person who has given their life for this country and to drop the piece of
the flag into the receptacle. Once all pieces have been shown respect and
have been placed in the receptacle, the receptacle can then be closed and
respectfully buried.
22
When the second flagpole is in use, address the flag at Stage Right
Lead—“Color Detail, Prepare to display the Flag of the Great State of
Texas (or whatever Flag is being used)”
Color Detail unfolds Flag until it is just folded in half
Lead—“Color Detail, Display the Flag of the Great State of Texas”
Color Detail, with a snap, unfolds the flag and displays it for all to see.
Lead—“Color Detail, Raise the Flag of the Great State of Texas”
The 2 Flag Bearers work together to get the Flag clipped in place, raise it
briskly, and secure the lanyard to the pole.
When the third flagpole is in use, address the flagpole at Stage Left.
Lead—“Color Detail, Prepare to display the (name the Flag)”
Color Detail unfolds Flag until it is just folded in half
Lead—“Color Detail, Display the (name the Flag)”
Color Detail, with a snap, unfolds the flag and displays it for all to see.
Lead—“Color Detail, Raise the (name the Flag)”
The 2 Flag Bearers work together to get the Flag clipped in place, raise it
briskly, and secure the lanyard to the pole.
At this point the Lead can read a story about the Flag, or lead a patriotic
Song (see appendix for examples.)
Lead—“Color Detail, Salute the Flag of the United States of America”
Flag Bearers perform a maneuver to face the Flag and Salute.
Lead—“Color Detail, Reform”
Color Detail reforms in the same formation they entered.
Lead—“Color Detail, Retreat”
Color Detail walks in formation off the parade field. Lead follows Detail
out.
End of ceremony
15
 Other Points For Flag Burning Ceremonies

If you have a large amount of flags to be retired, retire one during the
ceremony in honor of the others, and retire the rest after the ceremony,
Script 5, Recovering Colors or have a local funeral home donate their services and have the flags
cremated.
Recover Colors at Dusk After the retirement, polish the leftover grommets, and give them to
Note: Take Flags down in a respectful manner, remembering to lower the veterans, important people in the community, people who helped or
Flags slowly. For great effect have a Bugler blow Taps as the American Flag attended, or to whomever you see fit. They are like having an American
is lowered. Flag on your keychain.
Color Guard will return to collect colors after the event is complete. As Be careful when burning the flags. If it is a windy day, have something to
before the Lead will walk forward in a patriotic manner. put over the container to keep ashes or unburnt pieces of the flag from
Lead—“Color Guard, Advance ” flying out of the container.
Flag Bearers and Guards advance to the flagpole(s). Flag Bearers will walk If you are going to burn just one flag for the ceremony, chose a flag that
straight to the Flags. is made out of cotton. Burning Nylon and Polyester flags releases toxic
Lead—“Color Guard, Retrieve Colors ” gases. On top of that, nylon flags melt and leave a sticky mess.
Flag Bearers lower flags (Lower American Flag slowly). Unclip flags from Make sure that the flag is burned entirely, so that it is unrecognizable as
harness, fold flags appropriately and then wait for orders. an American Flag.
Lead—“Color Guard, Reform” When you are done, the ashes may be buried, or scattered as desired. The
Lead moves 4 paces from flagpole(s). As before, best way would be to bury them in a special location where you can leave
Color Guard Reforms behind Lead a sign describing what is buried there.
Lead—“Color Guard, Retreat” Remember, this is a very solemn ceremony. It is like a funeral. We are
Color Guard retreats to back of the ceremony laying US Flags to rest. A large group is not needed, yet veterans, and
area. some other people in the community might find the need to attend to pay
respect for the flag as it is retired. Large groups of people should usually
End of Ceremony not be invited, unless it’s for a special purpose.

Securing the Halyard

Keep the ropes (halyard) together and pull down taut under the bottom
of the cleat and circle back over the top (1). Then cross in front and make
one or two ‘figure 8s (2). When coming up for the final wrap, create
a loop at the top by crossing the tail end
behind the portion of rope coming up (3).
Place loop over and behind the top prong
of the cleat and pull the tail of the halyard
down snug (4). If necessary, excess rope may
be wrapped neatly and secured beneath the
2 cleat.
1 3 4 16 21

Lead— “Yes Sir. They have”
Lead— “It has been concluded, that this flag, and all other flags it
represents, will become unusable due to their proper service of tribute,
memory, and love.”
Lead— “Color Detail, prepare the flag for retirement.”
Color Detail moves to position around fire pit and prepares the flag for
retirement by solemnly unfolding the flag and holding it over the container
the flag is to be retired in.
Lead to ALL— “Join us in the singing of “God Bless America’”
Everybody sing— God Bless America
Color Detail retires the flag. If there is a small amount of flags to be retired,
place them in too. If there are a considerable amount of flags to be retired,
retire just one, and wait until after the ceremony to retire the rest.
Bugler—Plays Taps as flag burns
After taps, wait for flag to burn. If not totally burned after some time, finish
ceremony
Lead— “Two. Please bow your heads as (person giving the benediction)
leads us in the benediction”
Guest Speaker— “Almighty God, Captain of all hosts and Commander
over all, bless and consecrate this present hour. We thank Thee for our
Country and its Flag, and for the liberty for which it stands. To clean
and purging flame we commit these Flags, worn out in worthy service.
As they yield their substance to the fire, may Thy Holy Light spread
over us and bring to our hearts renewed devotion to God and Country.
Amen.”
Lead— “This concludes our US flag retirement ceremony. May we go
home, and not forget the importance of our country’s most precious
symbol, the US flag. Thank you for attending.”
End of Ceremony
20
Flag Retirement Services
and Ceremonies
Ceremony of Final Tribute
• Only one flag should be used in the ceremony,
• The ceremony should be conducted out-of-doors, preferably in
conjunction with a campfire program, and it should be very special.
• The ceremony involves two sets of color guards, one for the flag
currently in use, and a special color guard for the flag to be retired
from service. Of course, this may be adapted if conditions necessitate.
• Just before sunset, the flag which has been flying all day is retired in
the normal ceremonial procedure for that location or group.
• The color guard responsible for the flag receiving the final tribute
moves to front and center. The leader should present this color
guard with the flag which has been selected for its final tribute and
subsequent destruction. The leader should instruct the color guard to
“hoist the colors.”
“This flag has served its nation well and long. It has worn to a condition
in which it should no longer be used to represent the nation.”
“This flag represents all of the flags collected and being retired from
service today. The honor we show here this evening for this one flag, we
are showing for all of the flags, even those not physically here.”
The leader should:
• Call the group to attention;
• Order a salute;
• Lead the entire group in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag;
• Order the flag retired by the color guard.
• Slowly and ceremoniously lower and then respectfully fold the flag in
the customary triangle. Deliver the flag to the leader and then dismiss
the group.
This concludes the Ceremony of Final Tribute.
17
Ceremonial Burning
Fire Preparation:
It is important that the fire be sizable -- preferably having burnt down to a
bed of red hot coals to avoid bits of the flag being carried off by a roaring
fire -- yet be of sufficient intensity to ensure complete burning of the flag.
Flag Preparation:
The color guard assigned to the flag opens up its tri-corner fold and
then refolds the flag in a coffin-shaped rectangle.
When all is ready:
• Assemble around the fire. The leader calls the group to attention.
• The color guard comes forward and places the flag on the fire.
• All briskly salute.
• After the salute, but while still at attention, the leader should conduct
a respectful memorial service as the flag burns. National Flag
Foundation recommends singing “God Bless America,” followed by
an inspiring message of the flag’s meaning, followed by the “Pledge of
Allegiance,” and then silence.
• When the flag is basically consumed, those assembled, with the
exception of the leader and the color guard, should be dismissed
single file and depart in silence.
• The leader and the color guard remain until the flag is completely
consumed.
• The fire should then be safely extinguished and the ashes buried.
• This Ceremony is recommended by the National Flag Foundation.
There are many variations and we encourage you to research the
ceremony that best fits your unit. The only enduring rule is that the
ceremony be conducted in a respectful way.
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Script 6, Flag Burning Retirement Ceremony
Equipment and Personnel
• American Flag to retire
• Fire pit, wood, lighter, fire extinguisher, etc.
• 5 Scouts, Scoutmaster
• Guest Speaker for Historical Reading (optional)
• Guest Speaker for Benediction (optional)
• Bugler or Singer for Patriotic Song (optional)
Ceremony
Lead to ALL— “Please stand, and join me in retiring our nations flag.
Men and Women in Public and Military Service and Scouts will salute,
while the rest of us will put our hands over our heart.”
Lead— “Color Detail, prepare to retire the colors”
Color guard refolds the flag from a triangle into a coffin-shaped rectangle.
Lead— “Color Detail, present flag to the Scoutmaster (or other
honorary guest)
Color Detail brings flag (still folded) to Scoutmaster, hold flag straight out
between hands (one on top, one on bottom)
Lead to Scoutmaster— “Sir, We present this Flag that has proudly flown
over our nation and its war dead. It is ready for retirement.” (Say
scoutmaster’s name), do you have anything to say before this flag is
retired?”
Scoutmaster— “Has this flag represented this nation with honor
and pride, and become worn as the result of its usual service as the
Emblem of our Country? “
Lead— “Yes Sir. It has.”
Lead— “(Say guest speaker’s name), do you have anything to say before
this flag is retired?”
Guest Speaker: “Has this flag, and all other flags it represents, become
unserviceable while flying over our country in times of peace and war,
and as our nation’s men and women died in defending its honor?”
19