OCS Cadets teach flag etiquette
Omaha Composite Squadron cadets teach flag etiquette to Wilson Focus School students. C/SMSgt Bryce Moran, who is also the First Sergeant for the squadron, gave a presentation to a group of SM Rhonda Hayward’s fifth and sixth graders with the assistance of C/SrA Noach Hayward and C/AB Evan Moran.
C/SMSgt Bryce Moran
Lowering the flag
The presentation started with historical facts about the American flag, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and the proper way to stand at attention rendering the correct courtesies. It was all about respecting the flag. This was followed by some great interactive questions and answers with the students.
Folding the flag
The cadets then took the students outside to the school flagpole to learn about the customs and courtesies of raising and lowering the flag, making sure the American flag is always flying the highest and never letting it touch the ground when it’s removed from the flagpole. The students participated by raising and lowering it themselves while the other students stood with their hand over their hearts. The Flag was created by 17 year old Robert G. Heft as a school project.
The final folds
Finally, the cadets showed the students how to properly fold the flag. The students learned there are 13 folds, always ending with the blue Union end tucked into the triangular fold. A salute was rendered by the cadets while it was passed from one cadet to the other to retire the flag for the night.
C/SrA. Hayward salutes the flag
Ms. Hayward’s students will now be responsible for the daily raising and lowering of the flag at Wilson Focus School. Thank you to the C/SMSgt Moran for making this happen and putting together a great lesson plan, and to cadets Noach Hayward and Evan Moran for your participation. Outstanding job by all.
FACTS ABOUT THE AMERICAN FLAG:
History of the American Flag
- First created in 1776 and altered 27 times since then (last modified in 1960)
- Originally contained a Union Jack in place of the Union known today
- Has 13 stripes in honor of the colonies that rebelled
Symbolism for the American Flag
- Represents America
- Often called the “Star Spangled Banner”, or “Old Glory”
- White represents purity and innocence
- Red represents bravery, hardiness, and valor
- Blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice
- Combined, the Flag is a symbol of the United States
Flag Etiquette
- The Flag is flown every day
- Is NEVER dipped to anything or anyone
- Must NEVER touch the ground
- Cannot be flown at night without illumination
- The Flag must ALWAYS be lit (sunshine or appropriate light source)
- Is not for decoration
- Never have any mark on it
- Not for holding or carrying something
- Must be kept clean and mended when required (or retire the Flag)
- Must not be used as clothing
- Is only at half-mast for times of mourning
Displaying the Colors
- No flag may fly higher than the Flag of the United States
- Is centered (and higher) when flown with other flags
- The American Flag is raised first and lowered last when displayed with other flags
- When flown at half-mast, it is first raised to peak, then lowered
- The Flag is raised briskly and lowered slowly and ceremoniously
- When displayed indoors, the Flag is placed in a position of honor
Showing respect for the Flag of the United States of America
- The Flag is never displayed with the Union down except as a sign of distress
- When being raised and lowered, those in uniform come to attention, face and salute. All other come to attention, face and put their right hand over their heart and remove any headgear
- Whenever the national anthem is played, you are required to come to attention, face the Flag, and render courtesies
