How to Raise the Flag in Scouting

Unfold the United States flag. One Scout should untuck and hold the edge of the flag, while another Scout unfolds the triangle shape one fold at a time until it is completely unfolded.

Attach the clasps on the flag pole rope to each rivet on the edge of the flag. Most flags have two rivets. One on the top and bottom of the flag. Large flags may have more rivets. The Scout who is holding the riveted side should be in charge of attaching the flag pole rope.

Hoist the flag quickly. Pull down on the flag pole rope and hoist the flag. The Scout who held the end of the flag without the rivets should ensure that no portion of the flag accidentally touches the ground. Continue hoisting until the flag has reached the top of the pole.

Instruct all other Scouts in uniform in attendance to salute the flag using their right hand. The right hand should be flat with fingers placed together. The tip of the index finger should be placed just above the right eyebrow. The salute shall remain in place until the flag has reached the top of the pole. People, including Scouts, not in uniform should place their right hand, palm down, across their heart. All non-uniform hats should be removed by men. Women in attendance are allowed to leave their hats on.

Tie off the flag on the flag pole cleat. Once the flag has been completely raised, instruct the Scout who was raising the flag to make a "figure 8" along the cleat. With the last piece of rope, instruct him to tuck it under the rope already on the cleat and pull it tight. Note, some flag poles may simply have a clip at the end of the rope, which will hold it in place once clipped on.