Color Guard
Most of us have seen the color guard in action before but haven’t really paid attention to it. The color guard is usually present at ceremonies, especially official ceremonies where there are flags involved. With the government and the military, the color guard is an important part of whatever event is going on.
In general, the color guard is responsible for carrying the American flag and any other flags or ‘colors’ that are involved. For example, if the ceremony were to take place in Massachusetts, the color guard would contain the American flag, the official state flag of Massachusetts, and any other flags that are relevant to the organization or office where the ceremony is taking place. There are also usually at least two people present who usually carry rifles. These are typically people who are in the military at the time of the ceremony.
When it comes to official matters, the color guard often blends into the background. We often acknowledge that there are ‘a bunch of flags’ without understanding quite what is needed to get those flags out there and in view. Well, a lot of time and effort goes in to making sure the color guard is doing what they need to do and following protocol. Basically all of the people need to be in step and in tune with one another. The flags need to be lined up in the proper way. The people who are wielding the rifled need to know when to fire them off. It is a very intricate operation.
And the color guard isn’t just reserved for the military or the government. Organizations such as the Girl Scouts and the Boy Scouts utilize a color guard for their ceremonies. This is usually members from that particular troop who hold the flags. There still is some practice involved. No doubt this ceremony and decorum is in a way preparing them for other things such as a potential career with the government. It gives them a taste of potential adult world situations they could be in. Plus, it is an honor to be chosen for the color guard no matter if you are in the military, government, or the scouts.
