Flag Ceremonies

I love to teach the boys respect for the flag!  Here are some fun den flag ceremonies that can also be used in a pack setting.

Suggested Den Flag Ceremonies

1.  Scouts salute the flag and repeat the Pledge of Allegiance
2.   Have two scouts parade the U.S. flag and the den flag past a line of scouts who stand at attention and             salute. Repeat the Pledge.
3.  Plan a ceremony on the history of the flag.  Each boy in the den can make and color a paper flag or pirnt flags to represent flags from an earlier period.  End with the Pledge of Allegiance.
4.  Have the scouts march past a posted flag and then give the proper salute.
5.  Form the den in a horseshoe with the U.S. flag in front of the horseshoe.  Each scout in turn steps forward, salutes the flag, and steps back in formation.  When all have finished the den gives the Pledge of Allegiance. Cub scout promise or law may also be said.
6.  Line up the den in a single line.  Bring the scouts to attention, turn out all lights.  Spotlight the U.S. flag with a flashlight, have a scout read the first verse of "The Star-Spangled Banner," "America the Beautiful" or other patriotic song.
7.  Face the flag in unison and sing a verse from a patriotic song.
8.  Form a circle around the flag with scouts grasping the flag pole with their left hands.  Give the cub scout sign with the right hand and repat the cub scout promise or law of the pack. Release L hand hold to salute and repeat the Pledge of Allegiance.
9.  Webelos can incorporate the Scout Oath and the Scout Law into these ceremonies.
10.  Cub scouts stand at attention while leader reads Red Skelton's Commentary on the Pledge of Allegiance.  The boys then salute and Pledge Allegiance to the flag.  (Patriotic background music enhances this ceremony well.

Sources: Flag Code adopted by the National Flag Conferences of 192 and 1924, The Boy Scout Handbook, The American Patriot's Handbook, Webelos Book , Den Chief Handbook. "How to Respect and Display Our Flag" printed by the U.S. Marine Corp.

*** Red Skelton's commentary on the pledge can be found on-line at the following location which includes an audio by comedian red skelton: www.redskelton.com/PLEDGE.htm