We are NOT a military organization, however much of our flagline commands have military roots. Because being a veteran is NOT a requirement to be a Patriot Guard Riders is might be helpful with some people to know some explanations of Flagline Commands is necessary. We all stand the flagline to honor veterans but not all Patriot Guard Riders are veterans as it has been stated, that is NOT a requirement. We have an unwavering respect for those who risk their very lives for Americas freedom and security. It doesn’t matter where you’re from or what your income is; you don’t even have to ride. The only prerequisite is Respect.
For informational purposes suggestion was made that we provide some definitions and explanations for Flagline Commands. This will be especially beneficial to the non-veteran Patriot Guard Rider members. These definitions and explanations are intended to inform and educate – not to discriminate or point fingers at anyone
FALL IN: Patriot Guard Riders of CT, Inc. stand in formation in the flagline at the “AT EASE” position.
AT EASE: means that you still stay in ranks, but you are in a more relaxed position. The command is “Stand at Ease” and “Parade Rest” they are almost the same, but should NOT be confused. AT EASE and PARADE REST are two distinct, different commands
ATTENTION:
a. Assume the position of ATTENTION on the command FALL IN or the command PATRIOT GUARD ATTENTION!
b. To assume this position, bring the heels together sharply on line, with the toes pointing out equally, forming an angle of 45 degrees. Rest the weight of the body evenly on the heels and balls of both feet. Keep the legs straight without locking the knees. Hold the body erect with the hips level, chest lifted and arched, and the shoulders square.
c. Keep the head erect and face straight to the front with the chin drawn in so that alignment of the head and neck is vertical
d. Let the arms hang straight without stiffness. Curl the fingers so that the tips of the thumbs are alongside and touching the first joint of the forefingers. Keep the thumbs straight along the seams of the trouser leg with the first joint of the fingers touching the trousers.
e. When holding a flag, it is to held in your RIGHT hand. It is to be held straight up and down, not at an angle. The Patriot Guard Riders of CT takes the position that when holding an American flag (which would be on the right) no hand salute is rendered. Veterans can salute the flag, however when holding the flag that is your sign of salute
f. DO NOT LOCK YOUR KNEES – why? if you do, you will surely faint – it is a proven fact
PARADE REST: is commanded only from the position of attention. The command for this movement is PARADE REST. On the command of execution PARADE REST, move the left foot about 10 inches to the left of the right foot. Keep the legs straight without locking the knees, resting the weight of the body equally on the heels and balls of the feet. Simultaneously, place the hands at the small of the back and centered on the belt. Keep the fingers of both hands extended and joined, interlocking the thumbs so that the palm of the right hand is outward.
Keep the head and eyes as in the position of ATTENTION. Remain silent and do not move unless otherwise directed.
AT EASE may be executed from this position.
STAND DOWN: a suspension and relaxation from an alert state or a state of readiness. This command is usually given when the mission is complete, all the flags and equipment used during the mission is secured to be put away, and members are dismissed.