The Singing Scoutmaster: Ceremonies

Raising and Lowering the U.S. Flag

Raising and lowering the United States flag is a solemn and respectful act. Whether at a Scout event, school, or civic ceremony, understanding the correct procedure reflects honor and discipline. This guide outlines proper steps for handling the U.S. flag, including how to fly it at half-mast and how to coordinate it with state or troop flags.

For full legal reference, see the U.S. Flag Code.

General Guidelines

• The U.S. flag should always be raised **briskly** and lowered **ceremoniously** and **slowly**.
• The flag should never touch the ground.
• If a state or organizational flag is displayed, the U.S. flag should always be in the position of honor.
• Salutes should be rendered by Scouts and leaders during raising and lowering, using the Scout salute (or hand over heart if out of uniform).

Standard Raising Procedure

1. Unfold the flag completely before attaching it to the halyard (rope).
2. Attach the flag to the clips on the halyard — union (blue field) at the top, and the flag hanging freely.
3. Scouts or leaders should be called to attention. The leader may give the command: "Scouts... Hand Salute!"
4. Raise the flag **briskly** to the top of the pole.
5. Secure the halyard and tie it off neatly.
6. Command: "Two!" to end the salute.

Standard Lowering Procedure

1. Call the group to attention. Command: "Scouts... Hand Salute!"
2. Lower the flag **slowly and respectfully** to the waiting hands of the Color Guard.
3. Carefully detach and fold the flag into the traditional triangle.
4. Once the flag is secured, command: "Two!" to drop the salute.

Half-Mast Protocol

• To fly the flag at half-mast, first **raise it to the top** of the flagpole **briskly**, then **lower it to half-mast slowly**.
• To retire the flag from half-mast, first **raise it briskly to the top**, then **lower it slowly and ceremoniously**.
• Half-mast is typically used during periods of national mourning or by presidential/government proclamation.

When Displaying a State or Troop Flag

On the Same Halyard The U.S. flag is always on top. Raise the U.S. flag first, then the state or other flag. Lower the state/troop flag first, then the U.S. flag last. On Separate Poles The U.S. flag is always on its own right (observer's left when facing the flags). All flags should be raised and lowered simultaneously if possible. If not simultaneous, U.S. flag goes up first, comes down last.

Helpful Tips

• Wear gloves if available — it adds formality and protects the flag from oils and dirt.
• Assign clear roles to members of the color guard: flag raiser, halyard handler, and caller.
• Use this moment to reflect on patriotism, respect, and the values the flag represents.