Memorial Day Noon Flag Raise
| Category: | Flag Ceremonies |
|---|---|
| Props: | U.S. flag |
| Props: | State flag (optional) |
| Props: | flagpole with halyard |
| Props: | color guard |
| Notes: | Used at noon on Memorial Day, when both the U.S. and State flags are raised from half-staff to full-staff for the remainder of the day - as required by U.S. Flag Code and Texas law. |
| Notes: | Pair with the Half-Staff Flag Ceremony for a complete Memorial Day flag program. |
This ceremony takes place at noon on Memorial Day. The flag has been at half-staff since the morning. At noon, by law, it is raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day. Assemble the color guard at the flagpole.
Leader: 'Color Guard, Attention!'
Leader: 'Troop, please rise and render honors.'
All in uniform render the Scout salute. Those out of uniform place their right hand over their heart.Leader: 'It is noon on Memorial Day. Since this morning, our flag has flown at half-staff - a mark of mourning for those who gave their lives in service to our nation.'
Leader: 'Now, by tradition and by law, we raise it to full-staff. This is not because we have stopped remembering. It is because remembrance itself is an act of celebration - a declaration that their service mattered, that their sacrifice was not in vain, and that what they fought for endures.'
Leader: 'The flag comes up. Our hearts stay grateful.'
Leader: 'Color Guard - raise the colors to full-staff!'
The color guard raises the flag briskly and smartly to the top of the pole and secures the halyard.Pause a moment with the flag at full-staff.
Leader: 'This flag now flies at full-staff for the rest of Memorial Day. As long as it flies, we fly with it - in gratitude, in service, and in the spirit of those we honor today.'
Optional: Lead the Pledge of Allegiance, a patriotic song, or a moment of reflection.
Leader: 'TWO! Scouts, you may be seated.'