Raising the Flag - Honoring the Past
| Category: | Flag Ceremonies |
|---|---|
| Link: | Performance Example |
| Link: | Performance Example |
| Props: | current U.S. flag |
| Props: | historical U.S. flag |
| Props: | two flagpoles with halyards |
| Props: | color guard |
| Props: | bugle or speaker for "To the Colors" |
| Props: | gloves (optional) |
| Notes: | Ceremony to respectfully raise a historical U.S. flag alongside the modern 50-star flag. Honors tradition while following current flag code. Suitable for Scout courses or patriotic gatherings. |
Raising the Flag - Honoring the Past
Today, we honor the long tradition of the United States by raising two flags: the current 50-star flag of our nation, and a historical flag that once flew proudly over our country during an earlier chapter of its story.
Whether it bears 13 stars, 15 stars, or 48, a historical U.S. flag was once the official symbol of our nation — and it deserves our respect.
Order of Flags
- The modern 50-star flag is always raised first and lowered last.
- The historical flag is raised immediately after, and lowered before the modern flag.
- Both flags are flown at equal height on separate poles of equal height, if possible.
Raising Ceremony
- Color Guard advances with both flags.
- Caller says: "Color Guard, prepare to raise the colors."
- Play or hum To the Colors.
- Raise the modern flag briskly to full staff.
- Raise the historical flag briskly on its adjacent pole.
- Caller: "Scout salute. Please stand at attention."
- All salute both flags as they are raised.
- Caller: "Two." (Drop salute)
- Color Guard retires.
Lowering Ceremony (at end of day)
- Caller: "Color Guard, retrieve the colors."
- Lower the historical flag slowly and respectfully.
- Lower the modern flag slowly and respectfully.
- Caller: "Scout salute." (Salute while flags are lowered)
- Caller: "Two."
- Fold both flags respectfully (triangle fold). The modern flag should be folded last and held with honor.
- Color Guard retires with the flags.
Optional Closing Thought
"Let us remember that every version of the U.S. flag tells a story—not just of history, but of hopes, struggles, and unity. Today we honor both our past and our present, together."
Bonus Tip: While the U.S. Flag Code doesn't explicitly mention historical flags like the Betsy Ross or 48-star version, respectful display is supported by its core principles. According to Title 4, U.S. Code, Chapter 1, sections 7 and 8 emphasize proper order, position, and dignity for any U.S. flag. Flying a historical flag alongside the current one is a respectful, educational act—just ensure the modern flag is raised first and lowered last.
Bonus Tip: "To the Colors" is a recognized bugle call that carries the same courtesies as the National Anthem when played in honor of the flag. All participants should stand at attention and salute as they would for the National Anthem. Listen to it here.