Each day on every Marine Corps Post throughout the world Marines hoist morning colors.  In this blog post I want to give you a little background on what the ceremony is and why, when you visit Parris Island for a recruit graduation, you must include morning colors on your to-do list.

What are colors?

Morning and evening colors refer to the raising and lowering of our national flag.  Morning colors is the traditional flag raising ceremony which occurs every morning at 8:00 am as per U.S. Navy regulations.  Evening colors occurs when the flag is lowered at sunset.  The United States Flag is called the National Colors when it is carried by foot. It has other names depending upon how it is being displayed.  For example the American Flag is called the National Standard when it is carried by vehicle and the National Ensign when carried by ship.
Will I be able to watch the morning colors ceremony and get to the graduation on time?
The ceremony is over by 8:15 which leaves you plenty of time to get to the Petross Parade Deck for the 9:00 a.m. graduation.

What happens Friday morning on Parris Island during morning colors?

Everyone assembles in front of Barrow Hall by 7:45.    The color detail carries the flag to the flag pole and attaches the grommets to the halyard (rope)  snaps.  During this time you will be entertained by the Parris Island Marine Corps Band.  Please applaud if you enjoy their music; they appreciate your support.  At five minutes before 8:00 the trumpets sound First Call.  There is time for one more musical selection.     A moment before 8:00 you will hear the band sound attention, a Marine strikes the bell 8 times and the band plays the National Anthem as the flag is hoisted. Upon completion of the National Anthem carryon is sounded.   Additional martial music is played as the color detail secures the halyard.   If the Commanding General is on deck (in attendance) she will give a short speech welcoming the families aboard.  BGen Reynolds is the first female to assume Command of the Marie Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island; she is an excellent speaker.

If you watch closely you will easily spot the retired Marines in attendance as they always stand a little prouder (at attention) during the playing of the Marines Hymn at the conclusion of the colors ceremony.   If you are a family member your heart will swell with pride for your loved one who will soon complete the transformation from civilian to Marine. Don’t miss this emotionally moving ceremony as it is one of many proud Marine Corps traditions.