When is a hand salute rendered while passing the colors?

When passing the colors, a hand salute is rendered six paces before and six paces after the colors. This practice reinforces the respect and honor given to the national flag and other colors, which are symbols of the unit's pride and historical heritage. Saluting at this specific distance allows service members to demonstrate their recognition and respect for the colors as they approach and move past them.

The six paces before ensures that the salute is initiated at a respectful distance, while the six paces after the colors allows for the proper acknowledgment as one moves away. This structured protocol is vital in maintaining military courtesy and reflects the discipline within the armed forces. Saluting only at the moment of passing or when addressed would not uphold the established customs that emphasize ongoing respect for the colors.