Re: AFS Scouts
Michael F. Bowman (mfbowman@CAP.GWU.EDU)
Wed, 7 Sep 1994 23:24:19 -0400
Well I seemed to have stirred a bit of commentary. Please understand that
my comments were intended to indicate that a Scout should show respect to
the host country's flag and that in our case that meant standing at
attention. That International Law requires a salute is news to me. I
couldn't find anything on it in the protocal book I have,which doesn't
mean anything other than the authors just didn't mention it. Today, I was
told that the International Law refered to situations where uniformed
persons of the host and visiting nation exchange honors; e.g. when both the
host and visiting nation's ensigns are flown.
The original question was whether a visiting Scout should salute the host
country's flag when it was the only national ensign. Some of the responses
suggest customs where respect is shown by standing too at attention in such
cases. I'd be interested in knowing what international treaty established
rules in this area to take a look myself to learn how it might be applied
when a visitor is confronted with only the host country's flag. Mike - any
info on that? BTW, I didn't mention anthems, but agree with Ian that
respect is due there just as much as presenting the colors.
Ian, even here, it is clear that the Camp Director was off-base flying two
national ensigns from the same pole. Title 36 of the United States Code
beginning at Section 170 establishes flag etiquette in the U.S. and
prohibits flying two national ensigns from the same staff and absolute
prohibits flying one below the other.
One solution that was suggested to me today was that the Troop could in
addition to its tradional presentation of the U.S. Flag and Troop flag
include the World Scouting flag with the idea that no one would object to
saluting it. And in so doing the salute would also be to the other flags.
This I throw in for what its worth without a view just yet. Interesting.
Your thoughts?
I appreciate the additional comments made in support of trying to answer
the Scoutmaster's question on how to deal with these issues with his three
new AFS Scouts. We may not always agree and we may each have bits and
pieces that add up to a clearer picture, but the great thing is that the
responses show that there are almost always a number of Scouters willing to
try to help.
I think the bottom line is that we are in the business of teaching Scouts
to be respectful and considerate.
Yours in Scouting, Michael F. Bowman, a/k/a Professor Beaver
Deputy District Commissioner Exploring, GW Dist., NCAC, BSA
Speaking only for myself, but with Scouting Spirit . . .
____ mfbowman@CAP.GWU.EDU ____
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City | 
