Ever wonder why military members are so careful about how they handle flags? As Veterans Day approaches, it's fitting to explore some meaningful, and sometimes unique, flag protocols that miltary personal must follow. These protocols, developed over centuries of tradition, reflect the respect our armed forces hold for both the American flag and the service flags that represent each military branch.

One of the most striking military flag customs is the "half-masting" procedure aboard navy ships. Unlike civilian protocols, where flags are simply raised halfway, naval tradition requires the flag to be first raised to full-staff (all the way up), then respectfully lowered to the half-staff position. This practice, known as "two-block and lower," demonstrates the Navy's commitment to never letting the American flag be raised partway, even in mourning.

Another lesser-known protocol involves the placement and positioning of military branch flags during official ceremonies. While while you might not have noticed a particular order, or assumed they should be displayed at equal heights, military protocol follows a strict hierarchy. The order of precedence follows the Department of Defense's organizational structure: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. Additionally, each flag is positioned slightly lower than the one before it, creating a subtle but distinct cascade effect.

Military units also have their own special flags called "colors," and are taken very seriously. When a unit deploys to serve in a different country, their colors are never stored or packed away – they're either carried forward with the unit or properly cased in a formal ceremony. This tradition dates back centuries when unit colors served as vital rally points during battle.

This Veterans Day, as we see flags displayed in communities nationwide, it's worth noting that active service members salute the American flag during the National Anthem while in uniform, even when indoors. Now, veterans may also render a hand salute – a right that was given to them by congressional legislation in 2009.

As we honor our veterans this November 11th, understanding these protocols helps us appreciate the deep symbolism woven into military traditions. Each movement, each placement represents centuries of service, sacrifice, and unwavering respect for our national symbols. These protocols remind us that flags are more than mere fabric – they're powerful symbols of our nation's values and the brave individuals who defend them.