# Preparation for Flag Break/Hoisting

Civic duty is an important part of Scouting. The Troop flag is a symbol of our Scout Group. The flag represents us as a team. Working with Scouts and showing respect to a flag, whether it’s saying the pledge, presenting a flag at a ceremony or parade, or learning to properly retire an old, tattered flag, is how we help Scouts develop pride in their country.

![Religious Observances - Flag Ceremony](/files/-MObTv0OeXLwxr4UpxUK)

Flag ceremonies may be used for:

* Opening or closing meetings 
* Opening or closing special events
* Beginning or closing a day
* Honoring a special occasion or special person
* Retiring a worn flag

Flag ceremonies may take place in:

* Meeting rooms
* Outdoor settings
* Large auditoriums
* Onstage

### Order of the Opening Ceremony

* Calling for Horse-shoe formation (Whistle call : All Scouts)
* Flag Break (Other than the National Flag)
* Scout Salute
* National Anthem
* Religious observances
* Thought of the Day
* Marking the Attendance
* Notices, Programme lineup 
* Break off (for the rest of the activities)

### Order of the Closing Ceremony

* Calling for Horse-shoe formation (Whistle call : All Scouts)
* Notices, Points for the day, Awarding of badges
* Flag Lowering while singing Evening Taps
* Duty Hand-over
* Dismiss (Patrol Order) 

#### Evening Taps

Day is done, gone the sun,\
From the seas, from the hills, from the sky;\
All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/G-BZNhAYG00>" %}
Tune
{% endembed %}


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