Hello, Does anyone know of any source or reference to the ensign being lowered in inclement weather or at sunset. I can’t find any reference in AP 818. TIA
Thanks,
TheCadet
I think ACTO 002 (oddly enough) is the only bit of policy we have on when the ensign should be raised/lowered.
SQN PARADES
Initial Parade. During daylight, this could take the form of ensign hoisting […].
Dismissal Parade. Lower the ensign (if still hoisted) […]. Never fly the Ensign after sunset
Although all RAF stations now fly their ensign 24/7, iaw King’s Regulations (which also includes the inclement weather caveat). Can’t remember when they switched to flying it 24/7.
The RAF Ensign is to be flown permanently at all permanent RAF stations at home and abroad, with the exception that the RAF Ensign may be temporarily lowered for the purpose of maintenance, replacement with a new RAF Ensign due to condition, inclement weather or for ceremonial occasions. To retain elements of protocol, values, history and standards, Phase 1 training establishments will have independent flag staffs and shall continue to practice RAF Ensign Duties, including the daily hoisting and hauling down of the RAF Ensign as a ceremonial Phase 1 training objective.
AP 818 does contain info on how ensign should be raised/lowered.
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It looks like that bit in ACTO 002 about not flying after sunset is outdated then.
Raising and lowering at the beginning and end of drill nights makes perfect sense though, for the same reasons as given for Phase 1 training establishments.
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I assume by inclement weather they mean amber wind warnings, not just a bit of rain?
Unless you class us as a training establishment - effectively that’s what we do isn’t it? (Although we’re not phase 1)
training establishments will have independent flag staffs and shall continue to practice RAF Ensign Duties, including the daily hoisting and hauling down of the RAF Ensign as a ceremonial Phase 1 training objective.
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Just apply common sense.
If its a slight drizzle itll br alright just hang it in the building to dry naturally and without creases.
If its hoofing it down or winds are gusty bring it in
Water = risk of damage
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Does anyone have a copy of ACTO 002?
We’re kinda “phase 0”. Locally the loophole we apply is “Sqn sunrise” is the start of the parade night & “Sqn sunset” is the end of the parade night. Works quite well & good way to signal official start & end of training.
Although a couple of my cadets got to see sea cadets evening colours that they do each night & wanted to expand the ceremony we do….
We do ours to give a purpose to first parade, then lower it at final parade.
All year around.
If I wouldn’t put the cadets out in the weather, I don’t bother with the ensign.
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Same for us, up at 1st parade, down at last, unless the weather is not suitable for an outdoor parade.