[ducpho]

I am searching the web trying to find something published that describes the potocol on holding the flag. In a Flag Line at funerals for our Veterans, I see all variations of holding,,, right side,,, left side,,, center.

In addition, when holding the flag there is to be no salute as the flag represents that itself..... But, I continually see individuals rendering a full military hand salute while holding the flag on the left side or placing their hand over their heart and holding the flag with only one hand?

If you look at any Honor Guard they have the flag on the right side and then bring the left hand accross to hold the pole, thus both hands on the flag to make sure it is secured. The flag is centered in the middle of the body.

Does anyone know what is correct and where to find it??????

Thanks

ducpho

[MarineDad]

I too am seeking info on a proper salute when holding the flag. My understanding, from verbal info my son gave me, is that the flag staff should be held in the right hand and the leftarm should cross the chest/belly toward the flag staff.

However I see many move the staff to the left hand and salute/hand over heart with the right. I don't think this is the right thing do do.

Does anyone have an answer?

[Peter Ansoff]

The US Army protocol for color bearers is spelled out in FM 3-21.5. Here is what it says about the proper way to hold the flag:

15-14. POSITION OF THE COLORS AT THE CARRY

At the Carry, rest the ferrule of the staff in the socket of the sling. The socket is below the waist and adjusted to ensure that the finials of all Colors are of equal height . . . Grasp the staff with the right hand (even with the mouth) and incline it slightly to the front with the left hand securing the ferrule in the socket. The left hand may be positioned immediately below the right hand to more firmly secure the Colors on windy days.

The accompanying illustration in the manual shows the staff centered in front of the bearer's body, and held with both hands as described above. The manual does not explicitly address the question of whether the color bearer should render a hand salute, but it seems pretty clear that he/she is supposed to keep both hands on the staff to properly support the flag. The members of the color guard accompanying the flag salute by rendering either "eyes right" or "present arms," depending on the situation. An organizational color (for example, the US Army flag) is dipped in salute; the US flag is not dipped.

Regards,

Peter Ansoff