Military Parade Etiquette Question

This might be a bit of a weird question, but I was curious: Who is authorized to carry a branch's flag in a military parade? Is there any specific protocol involved there?

In a military parade, different flags or colors are carried by assigned individuals, often called color guards. The color guard is usually composed of enlisted members or officers who have been chosen for this high honor due to their discipline, dedication, and record of service.

The flag or colors carried typically represent the unit or branch of service. For each branch of the U.S. military, the flag carrier follows very clear regulations. For instance, in the U.S. Army, only Sergeants or above can bear the National Color, while Corporals may carry organizational colors. That being said, the rules and the authority to select color guards can vary widely across the different military branches and even individual units within those branches.

As for the specifics of the protocol, each color guard has two key personnel: the color sergeant and the color bearer. The color sergeant carries the National Colors, and the color bearer carries the unit or organizational flag. The actual performance of the color guard can vary based on the branch of service and the specific unit—it could be as simple as marching in formation, or it may involve more complex movements and procedures.

Nevertheless, across all branches of service, the general principle is one of high respect and reverence towards these colors. The flags are always carried in a respectful manner and never allowed to touch the ground, symbolizing the respect each member has for their unit and their country.

In conclusion, carrying a branch's flag at a military parade is considered a high honor, and is typically done by individuals who've been selected for their dedication, service, and discipline. The specific protocol can vary between branches, units, and even individual parades.