presentation of the honoree

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How to Present an Award

Last Updated: May 7, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Patrick Muñoz and by wikiHow staff writer, Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA . Patrick is an internationally recognized Voice & Speech Coach, focusing on public speaking, vocal power, accent and dialects, accent reduction, voiceover, acting and speech therapy. He has worked with clients such as Penelope Cruz, Eva Longoria, and Roselyn Sanchez. He was voted LA's Favorite Voice and Dialect Coach by BACKSTAGE, is the voice and speech coach for Disney and Turner Classic Movies, and is a member of Voice and Speech Trainers Association. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 103,911 times.

Giving out an award is a huge honor, so you likely want to do a great job. When you’re presenting an award, it’s important to keep the focus on the winner rather than yourself. Start your award speech by introducing the award and what it’s for. Then, announce the winner and why they won. Additionally, make sure that your information is accurate and concise.

Writing and Practicing Your Speech

• If the person knows about the award, talk to them directly to verify that you have correct information.
• If the award is a surprise, you can still talk to the person, but be vague about the reason. It may be helpful to talk to people who know them well, like a coworker, supervisor, classmate, teacher, or close relative.

• For instance, don’t say things like, “I taught her everything she knows,” “This is a great day for me because I hired her,” or “I always knew he was going places.”

• This is especially true if the winner will have a chance to give an acceptance speech. You don’t want to eat into the time they have for their speech.

Variation: You might also film your speech so you can look for areas that you can tighten up or improve.

Introducing the Award

• For instance, you might cradle a statue or plaque between both of your hands.
• If the award is an unframed certificate, you might carry it on open palms or keep it in a folder to protect it until you hand it out.

• You might say, “Every year we honor an employee who went above and beyond for our clients. This award celebrates the sacrifices and dedication of one employee who exemplified our company values over the past year.”

Variation: If you're presenting the award because of your position or credentials, briefly introduce yourself and your position to establish your credibility. This boosts the prominence of the award.

• Say, “This has been our most successful year as a company, and it’s because of the hard work and dedication of our entire team. Each of you deserves credit for helping us get to this point, but one employee’s achievements stand out from the rest.”

Announcing the Winner

• You could say, “The first time I met this person it was on a video conference. They’d traveled across the world for a business trip, but a client needed to meet that day. Instead of rescheduling, this person stayed up late into the night so they could attend the client meeting over Skype.”
• If you’re going for a funny story, you might say, “What we do around here is serious work, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have fun. The person who’s receiving this award knows how to make people laugh. When we were going through our audit last quarter, they put a smile on everyone’s face by putting rubber ducks in the fountain outside our office. It was a small gesture, but it helped us get through a difficult week.”

• Say, “This award goes to a person who lives our values. They put clients first and never hesitate to help a coworker in need. This year they made 30% of our sales and completed half of our customer service calls. On top of that, they’re the only employee in the history of the company to ever receive a business opportunity grant. Please applaud for the winner of the VIP Award, Ms. Alison Dean.”

Tip: Ideally, the audience should slowly realize who’s name you’re about to call.

• You might say, “Today we’re here to honor Diego Lopez for his efforts to build a new community center. Mr. Lopez organized fundraisers, energized the community, and overcame obstacles to bring hope to his neighborhood. Thanks to his efforts, 75 students are currently enrolled in after-school programs at the center, and a new program for the elderly is set to open next week.”

• You might tell them, “Congratulations on this well-deserved accomplishment.”

Community Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zd2xNTuQWxQ
• ↑ https://saylordotorg.github.io/text_business-communication-for-success/s19-07-presenting-or-accepting-an-awa.html
• ↑ https://bizfluent.com/how-2122740-present-award.html
• ↑ http://www.publicspeakingexpert.co.uk/awardspeeches.html
• ↑ https://www.toastmasters.org/resources/public-speaking-tips/presenting-awards

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Rice Speechwriting

Mastering presenter speech for award ceremonies, ace your presenter speech for award ceremonies.

Have you ever been to an award ceremony and felt that the presenter’s speech was a bit lackluster? If so, you know how important it is for the presenter to deliver a captivating speech that engages the audience and honors the awardee. An award presentation speech should be well-crafted, informative, and inspiring, leaving the audience with a sense of awe. In this blog post, we will cover all the key elements of an effective award presentation speech, including how to craft a captivating opener, provide background on the award and its significance, highlight the awardee’s accomplishments, and maintain brevity and engagement throughout. We’ll also share some tips on how to write an impressive presentation speech by knowing your audience, gathering relevant information about the awardee, and practicing your delivery. Finally, we’ll share examples of award presentation speeches gone right (and wrong) so that you can learn from others’ experiences.

Understanding the Purpose of an Award Presentation Speech

Honoring the recipient’s achievements is pivotal in an award presentation speech, capturing the audience’s attention from the onset. The speech should emphasize the honor and purpose of the award while expressing gratitude to the recipient, audience, and organizers. Additionally, it should inspire both the audience and the recipient, making it a momentous occasion. Incorporating these elements will make the award speech a memorable highlight of the ceremony.

The Role of a Presenter in an Award Ceremony

The presenter’s speech at an award ceremony plays a pivotal role in setting the tone for the event, demanding a high level of public speaking finesse. It serves as an introduction to the award recipient, encapsulating their name, achievements, and the purpose of the award. The speech also acts as a means of honoring the award recipient, encompassing elements of a speech giving an award to someone, an acceptance speech, and an award acceptance speech , all combined into one. Additionally, it presents an opportunity to underline the award’s purpose, the kinds of achievements it celebrates, and the individual’s significant contributions. The presentation speech template should be designed to captivate the audience, culminating in a high note, similar to giving an award to someone speech, introduction speech for award recipient, and award presentation speech, ending with a bang.

The Importance of a Well-Crafted Presentation Speech

Crafting an award presentation speech demands the emcee’s skill to sustain audience engagement within the time limit, ensuring a captivating speech until the end. The speech sets the stage for the award recipient’s heartfelt acceptance speech, requiring the emcee’s finesse in captivating the audience’s attention. Utilizing a presentation speech pdf, YouTube, or an anecdote can enhance the speech’s impact, expressing gratitude, honor, and the award’s purpose.

Key Elements of an Effective Award Presentation Speech

Crafting an effective award presentation speech involves seamlessly integrating key elements to engage the audience. The speech should include an award presentation, acceptance speech, and introduction of the award recipient in a concise yet impactful manner. It is essential to honor the recipient’s achievements and the purpose of the award while maintaining the audience’s attention. Incorporating gratitude and a thoughtful ending further enriches the overall presentation. Utilizing a well-crafted presentation speech template with NLP terms such as award speech, certificate, and trophies can enhance its effectiveness.

Crafting a Captivating Opener

Crafting the opening of an award presentation speech sets the stage for honoring the recipient’s achievements and the award’s purpose. The emcee’s introduction must capture the audience’s attention and engage them to honor the recipient. It should establish the purpose of the award and the achievements of the recipient. Crafting this opener is crucial for laying the groundwork for the award presentation and acceptance speech, ensuring lasting impact.

Providing Background on the Award and its Significance

Crafting an award presentation speech’s background involves expressing gratitude and outlining the purpose of the award, the recipient’s achievements, and the award’s scope. The emcee’s speech’s background should offer insight into the award’s purpose, the recipient’s achievements, and the award’s scope. It should also honor the recipient and express gratitude. This sets the stage for a memorable presentation that encapsulates the significance of the award and the accomplishments of the recipient.

Highlighting the Awardee’s Accomplishments

Focusing on the recipient’s achievements, name, award purpose, and scope is crucial in the award presentation speech. The emcee’s task is to honor the award recipient by delivering a speech that highlights the individual’s accomplishments. This involves addressing the audience and emphasizing the significance of the award, ensuring engagement and recognition. A well-crafted presentation speech effectively conveys the awardee’s achievements, sparking audience interest and involvement.

Maintaining Brevity and Engagement

In crafting an award presentation speech, it’s essential to maintain brevity while ensuring audience engagement. Focus on expressing gratitude, outlining the award’s purpose, and highlighting the recipient’s achievements. Emphasize the significance of the award and the individual’s contributions. Practicing the speech is crucial for a polished delivery, allowing you to connect with the audience effectively. This ensures that your award speech remains concise yet impactful, leaving a lasting impression.

Steps to Writing an Impressive Award Presentation Speech

Crafting an award speech involves understanding the audience, gathering pertinent details about the recipient, and rehearsing for effective delivery. Knowing the audience helps tailor the speech, while collecting information about the awardee ensures a personalized and meaningful presentation. Practice is key to refining the speech and exuding confidence during delivery. Incorporating these steps will result in a memorable and impactful award presentation speech. Emphasizing the significance of the award and the accomplishments of the recipient will resonate with the audience.

Knowing Your Audience

Understanding the interests and preferences of your audience is crucial for delivering an impactful award speech. Tailoring your content to resonate with the audience enhances engagement and connection. Consider their expectations, knowledge about the awardee, and the tone they would appreciate. Adapting the speech to appeal to the specific audience further elevates the impact of the presenter’s message. Acknowledging the audience’s presence through personalized references and relevant anecdotes fosters a deeper connection.

Gathering Relevant Information about the Awardee

Personalizing the award speech involves gathering pertinent information about the awardee’s achievements, contributions, and impact. Tailoring the speech to the recipient’s professional journey and accolades adds a special touch. Emphasizing the recipient’s unique accomplishments and extra mile efforts creates a memorable experience. Highlighting their first-time achievements and significant contributions to the field captures the audience’s attention. This personalized approach ensures that the award speech resonates with the recipient and the audience.

Practicing the Speech for Better Delivery

Practice makes perfect when delivering an award speech. Rehearsing ensures confidence and fluency, maintaining an engaging pace and incorporating pauses for emphasis. It’s crucial to adjust the speech to the time limit, keeping it impactful. Seeking feedback refines the delivery for a polished presentation, ensuring the speech resonates with the audience. Practicing the speech is the key to delivering an award-winning presentation.

Examples of Award Presentation Speeches

Crafting an introduction that honors the award recipient’s achievements is key to engaging the audience. Express gratitude and enthusiasm in delivering the award presentation speech, structuring the acceptance speech to honor the significance of the award. Engage the audience by sharing a personalized anecdote, and conclude with an uplifting ending to inspire both the recipient and the audience.

What Can Go Wrong in a Presentation Speech and How to Avoid It?

Common pitfalls to avoid in a presentation speech include overshadowing the recipient’s achievements, rushing through the speech, using generic content, employing excessive jargon, and neglecting to plan for technical issues. By being mindful of these challenges, you can deliver a polished and impactful presentation speech.

In conclusion, delivering an award-winning presenter speech requires understanding the purpose of the speech and the role of the presenter in an award ceremony. It is important to craft a well-written speech that includes a captivating opener, provides background on the award and its significance, highlights the awardee’s accomplishments, and maintains brevity and engagement. To write an impressive speech, it is essential to know your audience, gather relevant information about the awardee, and practice the speech for better delivery. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can deliver a memorable and impactful award presentation speech. Remember, your words have the power to inspire, celebrate achievements, and leave a lasting impression on the audience.

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Learning Objectives

• Discuss the purpose of an award.
• Describe the process of presenting an award.
• Describe the process of accepting an award.

There is nothing more gratifying than recognition from your peers and colleagues for a job well done. We all strive for acceptance, and recognition is a reflection of belonging, a basic human need (Schutz, W., 1966). In this chapter we will discuss how to present or accept an award tactfully, graciously, and professionally.

First, make sure that you have all the information correct before you get up to speak: the honoree’s correct name and how it is pronounced, the correct title of the award, and the details about the honoree’s accomplishments that you are about to share. The spotlight will be on you, and your accurate delivery will be crucial to the happiness of the occasion.

When presenting an award, the key is to focus attention on the honor and the person receiving it—not on yourself. You may have been part of the committee that chose the winner, or involved in some other way, but your role should never upstage that of the person being honored.

You can focus the attention on the recipient in two ways: surprise or direct acknowledgement. In the surprise approach, you mention characteristics of the person receiving the award without initially mentioning their name—allowing the audience to start guessing who it might be. You may mention a list of accomplishments, or perhaps a positive story. With the surprise approach, you share the information that is sure to reveal the recipient’s identity right before you present the award.

You may prefer, however, a direct acknowledgement of the honoree’s performance or service and simply announce his or her name. The direct acknowledgement approach is typically followed by the reasons for choosing this person to receive the award, or include his or her past accomplishments. This direct strategy may be preferred if the audience is not familiar with the recipient.

Table 15.5 “Presenting an Award” summarizes the process of presenting an award.

Table 15.5 Presenting an Award

If you are the award recipient, be aware that the acceptance of an award often provides a moment of influence on the audience that can serve to advance your position or cause. Use of the limelight is an important skill, and much like any speech or presentation, it requires planning and preparation. You don’t want to be caught speechless, and you want to project a professional presence that corresponds to the award or recognition.

If you know you are being considered for an award, first consider what the award recognizes within your professional community. An award is a symbol of approval, recognition, or distinction that honors the recipient in public. As the recipient, it is your role to convey recognition of that honor with your gracious acceptance.

Perhaps you have seen an awards ceremony on television, where a producer, composer, actor, or musician has received public recognition. Sometimes the acceptance unifies the community and serves as an inspiration to others. Other times the recipient stumbles, talks as fast as they can to list all the people who helped them reach their goal (often forgetting several, which can hurt feelings), or they use the spotlight to address an unrelated issue, like a political protest. They may mumble, and their nervousness may be so obvious that it impacts their credibility. Accepting an award is an honor, an opportunity, and a challenge.

The first step in accepting an award is to say thank you. You can connect with the audience with your heartfelt emotional displays and enthusiasm. Raised arms, clasped hands, and a bow are universal symbols of respect and gratitude. Note that rambunctious displays of emotion such as jumping up and down or large, sweeping gestures are better left for the athletic fields. An award ceremony is a formal event, and your professionalism will be on display for all to see.

Next, you should consider giving credit where credit is due, noting its relevance to your field or community. If you name one person, you have to be sure to not leave anyone out, or you run the risk of hurting feelings and perhaps even making professional enemies. If you confine your credit list to a couple of key people, it is wise to extend the credit beyond the individual mentions by saying something like, “There are so many people who made this possible. Thank you all!” You should link your response to the award organization and your field, industry, or business. Don’t apologize or use terms that can be interpreted as negative. The acceptance of an award is a joyous, uplifting affair, and your role is to maintain and perpetuate that perception.

You may also consider linking your award to a motivational anecdote. A brief, personal story about how a teacher or neighbor in your community motivated you to do better than you thought you could and how you hope this can serve to motivate up-and-coming members to strive for their very best, can often stimulate an audience. Don’t exaggerate or stretch the story. The simple facts speak for themselves and the award serves as a powerful visual aid.

Say “thank you again” as you leave the stage, facilitating the transition to the next part of the ceremony while acknowledging the honor. You may need to take note where previous recipients have exited the stage to proceed without error, or simply return to your seat. Your brief comments combined with a graceful entrance and exit will communicate professionalism. Table 15.6 “Accepting an Award” summarizes the steps we have outlined.

Table 15.6 Accepting an Award

Key Takeaway

Awards are public recognitions of success, and tact and grace are required both in presenting and receiving them.

• Who needs to be prepared to present an award in a business and why? Discuss your ideas with the class.
• This can be a fun two-minute oral communication exercise. In the exercise, you will alternate between the role of the award announcer and the recipient. You will be paired up into teams where you will need to create a business or industry award, prepare a brief script and notes on acceptance, and then demonstrate your results for your class. The introduction of the speaker should last no more than thirty seconds and the acceptance should also be completed in less than a minute. If you are at a distance from your class, you may be assigned a particular role that fits your situation. Record your performance and post it in class.
• Find one example of an award acceptance speech that you perceive as particularly effective. Indicate why and share the link. Compare with your classmates.
• Find one example of an award acceptance speech that you perceive as particularly ineffective. Indicate why and share the link. Compare with classmates.

Schutz, W. (1966). The interpersonal underworld . Palo Alto, CA: Science and Behavior Books.

Business Communication for Success: Public Speaking Edition Copyright © 2015 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Types of Speeches: Presenting an Award

At some point in your life, you’ll probably have the opportunity to formally reward someone for a job well done. When you do this in front of others it increases the perceived value of the honor.

If you decide to become a professional speaker or use speaking as an integral part of your marketing strategy, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the various types of speeches you might be asked to give. In this series of posts, I’ll give you the basics of a variety of types of presentations you can prepare. At the end of this post, I’ve listed previous articles in this series.

When presenting an honor or award, you need to accomplish two things:

1. Highlight the award Make sure that the recipient, as well as the audience, understands the importance of the award. What does it stand for? How does someone earn it? What are the traditions associated with this honor?

2. Highlight how the person earned the award Now that you’ve built up the award, you need to build up the person receiving it. What did this person do to deserve the award? How did they meet the criteria better than anyone else who was up for the award?

There are ways to make this sort of presentation more effective.

Tips for effectively presenting an award

Tell a story People are more engaged with stories. So highlight the award and the honoree in the form of a story.

Introductions first Call on the awardee last … nothing is more awkward than having to stand there and wait while you do your presentation. Tell your story first, then, when you are ready to hand over the award, call the awardee up to the lectern.

Mind your Ps and Qs Make sure that you know how to pronounce the name of the award and the person receiving it. Also, make sure your facts are correct. Nothing will spoil the honor more than mispronouncing someone’s name or announcing information that is totally wrong.

Be humble You may have been on the selecting committee, but this presentation is about the person being honored … not you. The presentation should be mostly about how wonderful the honoree is and why they are so deserving of this honor.

Demonstrate the award’s worth Hold the award as if it were a treasure. Make eye contact with the recipient, smile warmly and hand over the award with reverence.

Resources for effectively presenting an award

• Toastmasters International : Presenting an Award
• Flat World Knowledge: Presenting or Accepting an Award
• Buzzle: Presenting an Award Speech
• eHow: How to Present an Award
• Certificate Street: How to Present an Award Certificate with Style

Did you miss these?

Here are the previous posts in this “Type of Speeches” series:

• The Keynote Address
• The Training Session
• The Motivational Speech
• The Entertaining Speech
• The Demonstration
• The Information Dump
• The Inspirational Speech
• The Q & A
• The Persuasive Speech
• The Impromptu Speech
• The Acceptance Speech
• The Commencement Speech
• The Interpretive Reading

The next post in this series is Accepting an Award .

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About the author

Carma Spence, is author of Public Speaking Super Powers. She is fiercely committed to guiding women to Owning their Superpowers and turning their knowledge and interests into a profitable business. She is masterful at helping her clients see what is possible for them and supporting them on the journey from where they are to where they want to be, releasing the Mind Goblins of self-doubt, self-sabotage and second-guessing that keep them stuck.

With 20+ years experience in marketing communications and public relations, natural intuitive skills and certification in using some of the most effective transformational coaching tools available, Carma’s mission and commitment is to unleash the inner power every woman entrepreneur possesses so they can boldly go out into the world, transforming the fabric of people’s lives in meaningful and positive ways.

You can find her on Facebook , Twitter , Google+ and LinkedIn . Her website is CarmaSpence.com .

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• Section 4. Holding Awards Ceremonies

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Why should you hold awards ceremonies?

When should you present an award ceremony, how do you organize and conduct an award ceremony.

Somebody in your initiative has been doing an excellent job and has just achieved a professional victory. Everybody knows about it, and you have all congratulated your colleague for the good work. But you'd like to do more; you'd like to publicly recognize that person's achievements and accomplishments. After all, this person is an example for everybody on the team.

It's time to hold an awards ceremony. Presenting awards at a special ceremony is a good way to honor staff members and volunteers who have shown outstanding commitment and accomplished big things.

Achievements that deserve to be rewarded include many different types of victories. A successful international fundraiser is an achievement for the person in charge of it, and preparing cookies is an exemplary accomplishment for Girl Scouts. But no matter how big the success, all exemplary accomplishments and achievements have in common a great deal of determination, hard work, and commitment.

In this section, we'll be discussing how your organization can conduct awards ceremonies to recognize special achievements. We'll talk about why you should publicly present awards for unusual accomplishments, and when you should think about conducting an awards ceremony. Finally, we'll take you step-by-step through organizing a ceremony that will leave your awardees feeling recognized and your entire organization energized.

There are many good reasons to present awards for outstanding achievements. For example:

• An awards ceremony makes people feel that their work is valued . It shows approval and gratitude for each person's good job, and it makes people aware that good work will be rewarded. It shows others, such as the general public and other staff members, that you're aware of outstanding accomplishments. Recognition motivates others to strive for excellence and we all benefit from it.
• Recognition motivates people . For instance, if a social worker receives an award for an outstanding performance in the outreach program, other social workers will strive to do better also, so that they too can be recognized. Being rewarded for doing well is one of the biggest incentives anyone can receive.
• An awards ceremony or activity is a chance for celebration and reflection . People will get a break and a party, getting their minds away from everyday work, allowing them to see the bigger picture. At the same time, they will have the chance to discuss the importance of their work and the achievement of the person being awarded. Gathering and sharing experiences is a very powerful means of encouragement .

When should you present awards for exemplary accomplishment and achievement?

How often and under which circumstances your organization presents awards is entirely up to you. Some organizations hold an annual awards banquet to recognize outstanding work; others present awards only occasionally, and only in response to truly outstanding achievements.

You may choose to give an award during another event not designed specifically for this purpose. For example, if your organization has an annual board of directors meeting, you may wish to present one of the directors with a special award during the meeting. Planning for this type of presentation mainly involves incorporating the presentation into the agenda of the event.

Who should receive awards?

Deciding who receives awards may be done by an individual or a committee. In many organizations, more routine awards, such as plaques for 5, 10, or 25 years of volunteer service, are given out at ceremonies alongside larger awards for outstanding acts of service. However your organization chooses to do it, it's important that you be fair and consistent. For example, if you present an award to one person for recruiting 100 new volunteers to your program, you can't neglect the next person who does the same thing!

Awards ceremonies are also a great way to recognize people such as volunteers without whom an organization would be unable to run. Volunteers' accomplishments may not always be "extraordinary," but their value to the organization might be such that recognition and reward is important. For example, the Lied Center theater at the University of Kansas holds an annual award-giving ceremony for its ushers. All the ushers there work on a voluntary basis and without their help, the theater performances would not run as smoothly. The Lied Center feels that recognizing its volunteers is a way to show them how it appreciates their help and recognizes their achievements. Although their achievements may not be mark-setting, their work is essential.

When we think about awards ceremonies, the Academy Awards come to mind. Not all awards ceremonies have thousands of guests gathered in a gala atmosphere, but all award ceremonies surely have their stars and memorable moments. Usually, there's more to an awards presentation or activity than meets the eye. There are many details that must be arranged beforehand, without which this rewarding opportunity may not be as successful as you want it to be.

Of course, an awards ceremony isn't only speeches. Keep it going and keep it fun. An awards presentation must be entertaining; at the same time, it should remind all participants of the significance of the occasion.

Keep in mind that you don't have to be "formal" to deliver an award. Formal ceremonies are certainly a very common way to present an award, but there are other possibilities. A concert, a play, a picnic, a party, a movie, or a press conference might be more appropriate or more to the liking of the person being recognized. Most of these activities involve the same kind of planning and execution as a formal ceremony.

Organizing the awards ceremony

One of the best things in life is when an awards ceremony works; the speakers are good (and nobody canceled on you), the ceremony is upbeat (and never boring), and the one(s) receiving the award feel really recognized (and not just fake-happy). But for everything to run smoothly you need to put effort into planning the ceremony. There are many details, and they are all important. Depending on the size and what kind of event you have in mind, you might want to delegate chores to a committee or to a "point person" who will recruit helpers. It can be dangerous to take the responsibility all on yourself, because the organizing of an event can become overwhelming.

The planning of a presentation goes hand in hand with the budget. Are you going to have a fancy reception or not? What kinds of awards are you going to give -- certificates, gifts, recognition plaques? Who are you going to invite? Are you going to bring a special keynote speaker, or are you going to do the presentation yourself? All these details should be planned in advance so that there are no unhappy surprises during the ceremony.

Elements to consider when planning an awards ceremony

First of all, decide on your budget. How much you spend on an award presentation can vary a lot; be sure you can afford what you're planning. If your initiative has a lot of resources, you may have a big budget to spend on a ceremony. On the other hand, smaller organizations have to be creative and make do with a limited amount of money. Deciding your budget will determine the menu, the number of guests, the venue of the event, and other details that involve spending money.

Before planning anything, decide where to hold the ceremony. Think about what kind of event you're going to hold and then try to find a location to match. Before choosing a place, take into consideration all the next items so that you don't limit yourself choosing the place before determining what you really want. Does your company have a recreation center? A presentations room? Will you need to rent a room somewhere else? Are you going to serve food? What do you need in the room? Tables? Podium? Hook-ups? A kitchen? How big does the place have to be? A big hall will look empty if there are only a few people in it, and a small one will limit how many people you can have.

Type of award

They say that awards should fit the action being recognized. It also should fit the person and the occasion. For some, a donation to a particular organization may be most appropriate, for instance, volunteers for an AIDS project may want their award to be converted into a contribution to the project. For others, a new title or job definition will be the perfect award. What sort of symbol you choose says a lot about what and whom you are recognizing.

Here are some types of recognition you might consider:

• Certificates
• Framed recognition citations
• A promotion
• Complimentary tickets

Something else to have in mind is the surprise element. Is the recipient going to be told beforehand that he is going to receive an award? Surprises can be fun, but you don't want the honoree to have a heart attack from shock before reaching the podium to accept the award.

Number of guests

So, is this going to be a blockbuster, everybody's-invited type of party, or an invitation-only, intimate awards ceremony? You need to consider the immediate guests and their guests (family, friends, significant others?)

Ceremonies are fun, but people can get cross if there isn't anything to nibble on. You'll want to serve some sort of refreshments. The size of the event and the resources the facility offers will help determine what kind of food you'll serve. You're not going to serve a sit-down dinner someplace where there's no kitchen

When considering food for your ceremony, you have two options: plan it yourself, or get help from a catering service. Doing it yourself can save money, but do you have the manpower and expertise to put on a spread for the number of people invited? Remember, you have to plan, buy, prepare and serve the food, and clean up, all of which the caterers will do. On the other hand, you're paying the caterer for a pre-established number of people, whether they show up or not. If more show up, you're out of luck.

Waiters and other support staff

Speaking of food, you'll probably need people to set up the place, serve the food, put the water glass close to the speakers, serve the guests, and clean up afterward. You may need to hire support staff to help you, or you may have to assign some people from the organization committee (if you have one) to divide the labor. You can consider hiring specialized help, such as caterers.

Tables/chairs arrangement

No matter how small the ceremony, you don't want people tripping over tables or sitting with their backs to the podium. If the ceremony is large, then you need to be even more careful. Who will sit where? Who will sit with whom? Who needs to be close to the podium? You need to consider all these questions.

Decorations

This part is fun but, beware: it can make or break your presentation. Decorating is hard work, especially if you're dealing with a large space. Your choice of decorations will depend to a large extent on the tone you want the ceremony to take; for example, silly balloons and festive noise-makers would be inappropriate for a sober, dignified ceremony. Here's a list of things you may wish to consider when thinking about decorations for a formal awards ceremony:

• Tablecloths
• Center pieces
• Pictures on the wall

Key speakers

Who is going to actually present the awards? Is it going to be you? The director of your initiative? The awarded person's best friend? A nationally known motivational speaker? A choice could be made depending upon the recipient's job or accomplishment. It could be a colleague, the recipient's spouse, parent, or child. Whoever it may be, you need to contact that person in advance and to allow time for preparation. If necessary, arrange a rehearsal to fine-tune length and tone of speeches.

Order of presentation

Who is going to speak first? How are you going to start the ceremony? When will it end? At what time will the award be presented? The presentation schedule doesn't have to be followed to the minute, but you want to know who speaks after whom, so you can print a program for the guests. Also, people should know how much time they have to present their speeches and comments. If you expect everyone to take about three minutes, and someone takes 30, it can not only be boring for the audience, but it can throw off the timing of the whole event, and change the feeling of it. In general, the clearer you can be about timing, the more likely you are to get close to what you want.

Preparing your presentation

You've secured a location, arranged for refreshments, ordered the awards, and planned the decorations. But who is going to present the awards? If that job falls to you, don't worry!

Tips for a smooth, confident presentation

• Be sure to be warm and friendly in your presentation. Remember, this is not a business presentation, so you shouldn't be too formal. You're supposed to put the audience and the awardees at ease.
• Use simple words. Say begin instead of commence, and after instead of subsequent to
• Use contractions - didn't, won't - to make your speech sound more relaxed
• Use voice inflections and hand gestures
• Use personal pronouns such as I instead of one, and we instead of you
• Your speech should be interesting, creative and exciting. Do you know any stories about the person receiving the award that the audience at large is not aware of? Or an anecdote? Choose these stories carefully so as not to embarrass or ridicule the awarded person. If the story doesn't put the awardee in a positive light, forget about it.
• Tell brief stories, and use quick examples. The audience is interested in knowing more about this person receiving the award: her personal life, what she does in her free time, how you met her, any story that people can identify with. Use your presentation to show the personality of the person being awarded. Demonstrate how her life is inspiring to others, and illustrate it with authentic examples.
• Be attentive to your body language, eye contact, speech rhythm and mannerisms.

What not to do during a presentation:

• Be pompous and monotonous
• Be formal and stuffy
• Be vague and complex
• Start hyper-intense or be unenergized
• Be unsure and nervous
• Read, and sound like you're reading
• Talk for a long time. This is your awardees' day, not yours.

Should you invite the press?

Media attention is usually good and desired for this type of activity. Depending upon the size and scope of the event, you probably want as much public notice as possible, both for the honoree(s) and for your initiative. For example, it may be a good idea for a gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender rights association to invite the press when presenting an award for the association's straight allies. It would bring visibility to the group and energize allies, not to mention how glad the awardee would be to be mentioned in the press.

Audio-visual aids

If you have slides of the awarded person doing his or her work, a home video of this person that describes perfectly his or her personality, or taped testimonies of people thanking the recipient of the award, these are great ways of keeping the audience interested, bringing new perspectives to the ceremonies, and pleasing the person receiving the award. Make sure you have arranged the necessary equipment (overhead projector, slide projector, screen, TV set, stereo) if you decide to do a presentation like this.

Finally, everything is ready for the ceremony or the activity you chose to recognize someone's exemplary accomplishment and achievement. Now you just need to relax so that you look your best for the big day, especially if you are presenting the award. Sleep well before the presentation so you feel rested and refreshed.

Recapping, here is a list of things to pay attention to when presenting an award:

• Know why you're doing it
• Think about what you want to do
• Plan carefully
• Relax - make it as upbeat as possible

Conducting ceremonies to reward outstanding achievement is a great way to show the people you work with that their work is appreciated and admired. And by letting them know this, you will undoubtedly strengthen your organization as a whole.

Print Resources

Hamlin, S. (1989). How to talk so people listen . New York, NY: Perennial Library.

Quattrini, J. (1990). Successful business presentations . Blue Ridge Summit, PA: Tab Books.

Vineyard, S. (1988).  Beyond banquets, plaques and pins: Creative ways to recognize volunteers . Downers Grove, IL: Heritage Arts.

Wilder, C. (1994). The presentations kit: 10 steps for selling your ideas . New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

• Recognition Practices
• Recognition Programs

Show Me How To Give an Effective Award Presentation

By roy saunderson, ma, crp.

A wards are wonderful things. 

They are the most valuable possessions in the world to the people who receive them. 

Awards straddle between recognition and rewards in that they recognize an individual or team and may include a trophy and a reward. For what we will discuss here, they also provide a means to publicly honor the best of the best either through earned merit, length of service, or through an adjudication of a nomination.  

People will dress up for award events. They may even take the day off to prepare. People look forward to awarding ceremonies for weeks ahead.

You should know by now that award presentations are a big deal and so you had better get them right. Here’s how to prepare to give an effective award presentation. 

Your goal with any award event and presentation is to orchestrate as much as you can to make it an experience to remember for each award recipient. 

Whether it is a sales award, a career milestone award, or an award of excellence, you must plan out how you will honor the award recipients. 

Focus on the Award Purpose  

You need to answer the “why” question. Ask yourself, and your award committee members, why are we honoring these employees we are presenting awards to?

When you know the purpose of the awards and the event, this will help everyone be better prepared. And when you are presenting the award, rivet the reason for it in your mind.

It will cause you to think about what you should remember to make the award presentation a special event. 

For example, an employee’s length of service has been their life’s contribution to making a difference. What investigative digging can you do ahead of time to learn about their contributions.

With a formal award of excellence, you have people’s concentrated efforts to comply with and meet all the criteria associated with the area of expertise the award represents. That’s a big deal. Make sure you tell the story on the stage.

Find out the positive attributes of the individual being awarded. Share these within the presentation.

It is also important to discover what is most meaningful in the award recipient’s work and to honor them for it. They are winners for lots of reasons. You need to highlight these strengths for others to emulate. 

Show The Proof of Award Winners  

Most employees in your organization have never paid attention to what it takes to win an award. 

Before presenting the award, tell everyone the criteria for meriting this award. Focus on the main achievements and qualities needed to persevere and win the award. 

People need to understand why this person’s contributions or performance are above and beyond. Give people a chance to see how their work has shown a level of excellence for the organization.

Briefly explain the award nomination criteria and the challenge judges have on adjudicating nominations. Show how the individual’s or team’s nomination was exceptional. This helps guide the quality of future submissions. You can even share pertinent comments from the judges on what stood out for them. Describe how their performance and award activities benefit the organization. 

Make No Small Plans  

Part of the successful presentation of employee awards at ceremonies and award events is the planning that goes into them. It will take a team of people. Create templates and checklists to replicate this again. And always be willing to improve upon and make changes. 

Consider who to invite to the award ceremony. Are there important past colleagues to invite? Should you include and reach out to family and friends? 

Think about and ask what the honoree would like to have happen. Some of these factors, along with more virtual work scenarios, may dictate the best place to hold the awards event.

Foremost is checking with the award recipient to see if they are okay with this being a public event or not. For example, some people just prefer a small private affair.

Finding the right place and setting can add to the whole award experience. No matter if in person or online, remember to capture this special occasion on camera or video and send the award recipient copies afterward. 

Do Everything To Personalize Awards  

The intent of every award event is to make people feel special. One important way to do that is to use the award recipient’s preferred name versus their given name on the books. A person’s name is music to their ears. Make sure you have the correct spelling and pronunciation, too.

Work with leaders and colleagues ahead of time to learn the individual’s history with the organization. There might be a backstory tale to tell in those gems you discover. 

It can be the little things that make an award presentation meaningful. Like finding out why they selected their particular award gift for their career milestone award. 

You can make an occasion magical by getting just the “right” person to attend and make the presentation. In most case it will be their immediate manager or an organizational leader. Your task is the make this a memorable experience for the recipient. So, if finding a leader or manager from their past to be on stage will do it, make it happen. 

Getting Down to the Presentation  

You cannot be a boring stuff shirt when presenting someone their award. This should never be a shake and grin event where people receive the award shake hands and leave. The award recipient should be on cloud nine when they walk off the stage or off the screen. 

Think about this concept: What is one thing you can do to turn this award event into a celebration versus a presentation ?

Connect this person’s contributions to the organizational values and thank them for their example. Make sure you are well prepared with what to say and do. Sincerely and specifically, thank the individual for all that they have done for the organization and for specific individuals or teams. 

Everything about this award hinges on how you present it. Presenting this award can make a lasting impression on a person. Or it can ruin everything they hold dear to them about the organization.

The task you face in presenting an award is making positive memories with everything you do for this honoree. Treat them as a star celebrity, because on the day you present their award, they really are the hero being celebrated. 

Always remember to acknowledge the award winner or recipient’s achievements and acknowledge the grand difference they have made to specific people and the organization at large.

Presenting an award to someone is no small order. Yet, with this opportunity, you have the chance to make it the most memorable and motivational experience in someone’s life. That has to be the best job anyone can look forward to. 

Recognition Reflection: Do you consistently evaluate your award presentations and change them as needed?

Roy is no longer writing new content for this site (he has retired!), but you can subscribe to Engage2Excel’s blog as Engage2Excel will be taking Roy’s place writing about similar topics on employee recognition and retention, leadership and strategy.

Please note: I reserve the right to delete comments that are offensive or off-topic.

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• DrillMaster University

All About Posting or Presenting Colors

DrillMaster January 20, 2018 Ask DrillMaster , Color Guard/Color Team , Honor Guard , Honor Guard Training 145 Comments

There is quite a bit of information and several situations that every color team needs to know to maintain the American flag in the position of honor – on the marching right or in front. The American flag never marches any other position . Never . Military and para-military (just about every organization that has its members in uniform) should follow military guidance.

Never march the American flag in the center. The position of honor is to the right- not the center . All flags are marched so that the finial (top ornament, the spade) is as close to the same height as possible. All flagstaffs must also be the same length.

Color Guard Formations

There are only two authorized formations for a color guard. Only two, Line Formation and Column Formation. Everyone who has served even a day in the military is familiar with both. We fall-in for a formation in line formation and when we are going to march somewhere, the formation is given Right Face into column formation and we can then march any necessary distance.

Notice in the graphic above that Inverted Line and Column Formations takes the American flag out of the position of honor. A color guard can never perform these two formations. Never.

What Flags do we Carry and in what Order?

Military, Civil and Citizen teams have different requirements. The colors listed are in order from the marching right (viewer’s left):

• All services must always march with their service color, it may not be replaced by any other flag.
• The Army is authorized to add a state, territory or foreign national color (only one) and can carry up to four flags, the rest being unit colors. Read here for more information .
• The Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard are only authorized to carry the National Ensign and the service color. They may add another three-man color guard for a foreign national or US territory color only. Read here for more information .
• The Air Force and Space Force are authorized to add a state, territory or foreign national color (only one) and can carry up to four flags, the rest being unit colors. Read here for more information .
• Civil teams (law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS) carry the American, state, municipal, organizational and even fraternal colors. The fraternal color can be omitted when presenting for local government functions.
• Tribal teams  , on Tribal lands, would carry the Tribal Nation’s color, American, and state colors. Outside of Tribal lands, the American would be first and then the Tribal Nation’s color. Some Tribal teams also carry service colors.

Side note: When an Army, Air Force, or Space Force color team carries the following colors, this is the order. No exceptions.

• American flag
• Foreign national, state, or territory flag (in that order)
• Military departmental flag
• (Unit flag)

Please read The Why of the Military Color Guard series of posts.

Carrying More Than One National Flag?

Let’s say you are part of an Emerald Society Pipe and Drum Corps and Honor Guard (a first responder fraternity). Many of these teams carry not only the American flag, but also the Irish flag. Why? The first law enforcement officers and firefighters were Irish. The tradition continues. Back to our situation of two national flags: All national flags are treated the same on American soil – they are not dipped in salute. Both remain upright even during both national anthems, if they are played. All other colors dip in salute.

Joint Service Order for Military Colors

This is the only order for service flags, service emblems, etc. For more information on why this is the order, click here to read Joint Service Order of the Colors . The right/lead rifle guard is a Soldier and the left/rear guard is a Marine.

• Right rifle guard, Army
• Marine Corps
• Space Force
• Coast Guard
• Left rifle guard, Marine Corps

Note: While service color position remains the same, if all service personnel are not able to be present for the team, their order should go as follows as far as knowledge is concerned: regardless of service or rank, the most knowledgeable (as far as color guard experience) member should be the US color bearer and the second most knowledgeable should be the right rifle guard. Third in this sequence should be the left rifle guard with descending familiarity following from there.

Joint Service Order for First Responders

Full disclosure: I developed this. While this is not a hard-and-fast rule, I thought it necessary to create an order of precedence based on the implementation of each service. Read this for complete first responder joint service information :

• Law enforcement officer (LEO)

Using the guidance from the military, team make up might look like this:

• Right/lead rifle guard: LEO armed with a rifle/shotgun, second-most experienced member
• American flag: LEO, most experienced member
• Other flag (State, etc.): Firefighter/EMS, can be least in experience
• Left/rear guard: Firefighter/EMS armed with a ceremonial fire axe, third in experience

Keep in mind the guidance that the most experienced member should be the US color bearer, regardless of service/profession.

LEO/Fire/EMS Working Together

I encourage and enjoy joint work, but there is an issue that must be addressed: Technique.

What about Military and Civil working together?

Nothing addresses this subject specifically. However, we don’t necessarily read manuals to see what is forbidden or not authorized as that would be a never ending list, we look to the service manuals for what is authorized and we have our answer already. Military sticks with military and that’s it.

What About the Uniform?

For the military, the Class A or ceremonial uniform is it. On base, the utility uniform is an option but only if the official party is wearing it. Never wear mess dress. For more read this article .

Does Height Matter?

Experience before aesthetics , always . Not if you have the luxury of each member of the team being around the same height, but for cadet and civil teams, it should come second to knowledge and experience. Yes, the team might look “off”, but it’s best to have knowledgeable members of the team in key positions rather than have aesthetics. Click here and read this article .

Flag Stuck, etc.?

Problem during the Performance? That’s why God invented the right and left guards for the team! The guards are there to fix whatever issue they can.  For more, read this article here .

Hangin’ Around

Waiting for the ceremony still requires proper protocol.

• Arrive at the site at least one hour early
• Practice while in your travel uniform (this ensures no one thinks the ceremony has already begun and gives the team time to figure out their movements)
• Change into ceremonial/Class A uniform
• Hang out* with equipment ready in-hand and all team members in their proper place (American flag at right or in front of other flags- yes, even just hanging around – cameras are everywhere)
• Ten minutes prior to show time, line up at staging position at Stand at Ease (or Parade Rest) ready to perform

*An example of how NOT to stand around. This is a USAF Base Honor Guard team, I have pictures of other services, this is just an example.

Sporting Events

For horse and ice rink arenas, see The Arena/Rink Colors Presentation article .

For baseball, basketball, football/soccer, see this article and this article .

Left Wheel, Right Wheel and About Wheel . These are terms that honor guards use to describe turns accomplished by the color team most often outside. Right/Left Wheels use the center of the team as the rotation point which means half the team marches forward and the other half marches backward to rotate the team 90-degrees in an average of eight steps for teams with four to six members.

This is joint service technique from the Marine Corps and ceremonial technique. The Army Wheel is just like the Marine Corps Turn with the rotation point on the guard position.

The team executes the About Wheel in the same direction as the Right Wheel rotating the team 180-degrees in 16 steps.

Posting/Presenting

While colors can be and sometimes are posted outdoors (read that link), my experience leads me to recommend that you present and not post. The wind just never plays well with other others. We, in the military try to avoid this as much as possible with the alternative being a color team that posts near the podium for the event. The members present and then stage the team for everyone to see. Sometimes this may not be a viable solution and you will have to have the event and location dictate how the color team handles the colors. See also, How to Present the Colors at an Event ,  What is Authorized when Presenting the Colors , and How to Plan and Coordinate a Color Guard Event . This article, How to Present the Colors at an Event , has great information.

Note: As a rule of thumb, colors enter at Right Shoulder (Carry) and depart at Port Arms. Entering at Port is fine if necessary.

• Halt in front of and facing audience
• Present Arms for (foreign national anthem and then) the Star Spangled Banner or Pledge of Allegiance (not both see the next paragraph)
• (Color bearers move to post colors and rejoin guards)

The Announcement

“Ladies and gentlemen, please rise for the presentation (and posting) of the colors.” Every time a color guard presents the colors, it’s called a presentation. At a formal event, the colors may be placed in stands, that is posting. The colors will always be presented, just not always posted.

Music to Present to

Why not both the anthem and pledge.

Having both is not necessary. The Star-Spangled Banner is a salute to the flag and we render the military hand salute, stand at attention, or place our right hand over our heart, and dip flags.

We will not find anything that specifically forbids having the Star Spangled Banner played or sung and then having the Pledge of Allegiance in the same ceremony. The military oath supersedes the Pledge from our first day of Active Duty so we in the military hardly ever recite the Pledge if at all. There are times we do recite it and that is explained in our protocol manuals. What we read in TC 3-21.5 (MCO 5060.20 and AFMAN 36-2203) and related manuals is that the only music to honor the flag is the national anthem.

If you are told that the anthem and Pledge will be part of a ceremony and have no say, a great way to facilitate that is to formally present the colors, go to Present for the anthem, (post the colors- for more formal ceremonies,) and then have the color guard depart. Once the team is off stage, the audience can be led through the Pledge.

If the point of contact insists on both the anthem and Pledge and the team remaining for both, have the team return to Carry/Right Shoulder and remain for the Pledge. After recitation, the team departs at Port (Port, ARMS; Colors, Colors Turn, HARCH).

Music Played on Entrance and Exit

A military march can be played for the color guard when entering and exiting and no other time. The usual music for military color guards is the Trio section of the National Emblem March. T his YouTube video from the US Navy Band is perfect (also below) and at the correct tempo (around 90 beats per minute is best when presenting/posting indoors). If you have a live band, you can coordinate when to cut the music off. If you play this or another recording, you can halt and let the music play out. If you can get in place before the repeat, please don’t let the whole thing play while everyone stands around waiting for the music to end.

Dipping Flags to the Pledge

US military departmental and organizational flags do not dip for the Pledge. The same goes for the JROTC organizational flag, which is dipped in salute in all military ceremonies while the national anthem of the United States, “To the Colors,” or a foreign national anthem is played, when rendering honors to the Chief of Staff or Secretary of a US military branch, his or her direct representative, or an individual of higher grade, including a foreign dignitary of equivalent or higher grade. Organizational colors are also dipped when rendering honors to organizations and individuals for which the military ceremony is being conducted.

What about other organizational (veteran groups and first responders) and state flags? Dipping state, territory, city, and county flags along with private/national organization and law enforcement, fire, and EMS department flags is appropriate.

Foreign Anthems?

Foreign national anthems are played first and the Star-Spangled Banner is played last. An example of this is a Canadian hockey or baseball teams plays an American team here in the USA. If the American team traveled to Canada, the Star-Spangled Banner would be first with Oh Canada! played last.

Other Music?

While there may be other anthems representing certain people groups, they are not afforded the same protocol as a national anthem. The public is not required to stand or place their hand over their heart. Let’s take the Black Anthem as an example.

While I am in no way suggesting disrespect should be shown to a piece of music that may have meaning to a number of people, it is not at the same level as a national anthem and is not accorded the protocol of standing and placing the right hand over the heart, a military hand salute, or even the color guard going to Present Arms with the rifle guards at the position of Present and the non-national flag dipped forward. If this other music is played, the color guard should only stand at the position of Attention if on the court/field and after that music has finished, the commander of the team gives “Present, ARMS!” and the Star-Spangled Banner is then played or sung.

The announcer can say, “Ladies and gentlemen, the Black Anthem.” After it is finished the announcer should say, “Ladies and gentlemen, please rise, (men remove your hats, and place your right hand over your heart) for the Star-Spangled Banner.” Here is where the color guard would go to Present Arms and the anthem would then begin. The Star-Spangled Banner must be last.

Standard Entrance and Departure

To Present or Post, that is the Question!

Posting the colors is for special occasions. How special? That is up to the organization. Graduations are a special time, that would call for posting the colors. Weekly events would probably warrant pre-posted colors at the least or presenting the colors only.

The Show-n-Go . This is the honor guard term for presenting the colors for an informal/semi-formal event. The colors are pre-posted on the stage/front of the room and the color team enters, formally presents (Anthem), and then departs. No posting.

This happens at all sporting events where a color guard enters the field and should be a regular occurrence for every color guard in the USA and Americans abroad. Formally presenting is reserved for formal events.

With the Show-n-Go, the colors do not matter. As long as the American flag pre-posted, the color team can present whatever they carry as their standard colors (American, State, etc.).

How to Enter

The standard entrance is to enter from the viewer’s right, present to the audience (then post) and depart. See the image above.

To enter from the viewer’s left, use Every Left On . Also, read this article . This avoids Inverted Line Formation explained above.

Flag Stand Positions

Below, is an example of different stand positions behind a podium. For more on which flags should be in which stands, read this article on The Logical Separation of Colors .

How to Exit

The standard exit is to the viewer’s left. See the standard entrance/departure image above.

To exit to the viewer’s right, use Every Left Off . The commander calls, “Step!” and the left rifle guard steps across, as close as possible to the team member on their left. Step any further away and the departure for the team looks terrible.

Asked to post another organization’s color(s)? Don’t! Read this !

Entering and Departing to Music

Music is not mandatory. If you are going to have music, it is best that it be live. If not, a recording can sound quite unprofessional. The standard entrance and exit music for presenting/posting the colors is the Trio section of the National Emblem march by Edwin Eugene Bagley. Here is the YouTube video of the USAF Heritage Band playing the march. The link begins the video at the Trio section . This tempo is about 120 SPM (steps per minute). For the colors, you want a tempo of about 90 SPM.

When to Retire/Retrieve the Colors

Retrieving the colors is reserved for the extra, extra formal occasions. Do not retire the colors for weekly or even monthly meetings. Retirement is for very formal galas or balls. Use the posting sequence in reverse.

• Color bearers retrieve colors and rejoin guards
• Present Arms for a few seconds ( military flags do not dip )

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Comments 145.

Thanks for a great article. During a Navy ceremony when colors are paraded, does the MC also render a hand-salute?

Yes sir, that would be appropriate.

Copy. Thanks DrillMaster.

In a similar vein, my pastor has asked me to carry and hold the flag during a short Memorial Day remembrance during our upcoming Sunday service (I’m a veteran). He wants to play Taps, and has asked me to dip the flag while Taps is played. I’m aware the Flag Code stipulates the flag should never be dipped — would there ever be an exception to this rule for a religiously-themed Memorial remembrance such as this? Thanks

Sir, I have been scouring the Internet for the proper sequence (if there is even a proper sequence). As I remember it, while on active duty, when Posting the Colours / Retiring the Colours for a formal military event (All Academy Ball, as an example), the sequence is Invocation, Post, Retire, Benediction. Is this correct or does it even matter?

SFC Loewen,

It’s not mandatory to have a colors presentation. Colors can be preposted and no color guard present if there is no room or other circumstance.

For some situations: Colors preposted Star-Spangled Banner (played or sung) Invocation Ceremony Benediction

For most situations: One set of colors preposted and another set carried for a formal presentation (show-n-go) Star-Spangled Banner (played or sung) Departure of the color guard Invocation Ceremony Benediction

For formal situations: Colors presentation Star-Spangled Banner (played or sung) [posting of the colors] Departure of the color guard Invocation Ceremony Benediction

For very formal situations: Colors presentation Star-Spangled Banner (played or sung) Posting of the colors Departure of the color guard Invocation Ceremony Benediction Color guard retrieves colors Honors to the American flag

I hope this is helpful.

I am writing the script for a promotion ceremony. We intend to use the show-n-go method. Flags will already be posted on stage and the color guard will present the colors, National Anthem will be performed, and the color guard will exit, followed by the invocation. I am looking for the proper commands. Please advise on the below: MC: “Honor Guard, parade the Colors!”

[Honor Guard presents the Colors.] [SSG approaches and sings National Anthem.]

[Following National Anthem, SSG returns to seat]

MC: “Retire the Colors.” [Is this correct, or does the honor guard march the colors back down the isle without a command from the MC?]

[Honor Guard marches the colors to the back of the room and MSG will be preparing to come on stage to podium and provide invocation]

MC: “Ladies and Gentlemen, please remain standing for the invocation by retired Master Sergeant XX.”

The MC should say, “Ladies and gentlemen, please rise for the (entrance of the official party,) presentation of the colors and remain standing for the singing of the Star-Spangled Banner by SSG X, the departure of the color guard, and the invocation.”

That’s a bit for the audience to remember, so you can cut it into pieces.

The soloist waits for the color guard commander to give Present, Arms, and then begins to sing.

When the singing monsters s finished, the color guard departs on its own, no prompt given. As soon as the team is out of site (through a doorway), then the invocation.

If hope that’s helpful for you.

Would this be correct: Ladies and gentlemen, please rise for the Knights of Columbus (insert Council name/number) and the presentation of the colors and remain standing for the singing of the Star-Spangled Banner by SSG X, the departure of the color guard.

Yes, adding a personalization is fine.

Hello, forgive me if I thought wrong. I thought the our American flag would be vertically straight toward heaven and all others would be dipped forward at 30 degrees or so. I thought that was the place of honor. Thank you.

Mr. Venzke,

The position of honor is on the marching right for the a colors guard. The American flag is ALWAYS on the marching right in Line Formation and at the front in Column Formation. It is never anywhere else. The Army, Air Force, and Space Force require a “slight” angle forward for the staffs while the other services require the staffs to be vertical.

All staffs match in direction at all times except for Present Arms/Eyes Right. For that, all organizational flags dip with a full arm extension. If more than one flagstaff is dipped, those staff angles also match.

That’s the standard for the US military.

When doing a closing flag ceremony (I’m a Cub Scout Den Leader), when the flag bearers have retrieved the flags and are told to return to ranks, do they go to what is now the back of the line upon exiting or in the front of the line after the color guard has done an about face toward the back of the room. We use a two column formation. We generally have however many scouts are in a den participate as the color guard so everyone has a chance to be in the ceremony. I can find all kinds of videos online with the opening indoor ceremony, but not closing.

Ma’am,

Color guard members do not execute About Face to (To the) Rear March.

There are several ways to enter and depart with the flags that are shown above. The color guard (in your case your two flag bearers and, if you choose, two unarmed guards) usually keep to themselves not joining the rest of the membership until after the colors are secured. The bearers should go and put the colors up and then can return to the others, but retrieval of the flags is the last thing that takes place, there’s nothing accomplished after (unless it’s a formal event where there will be dancing). I’m not sure if this is helpful.

Rotaton of flag bearers through den membership is a very good idea as it promotes better understanding of responsibilities we have toward rendering honor and respect to out flag.

I am a member of a law enforcement HG. We are often short on members due to shift work, court and other requirements. We normally have four members to post colors, however is it ever acceptable to post with two and not have guards?

I just talked about this on my social media. Here’s the text from that post.

Sent in with a question: Aren’t the colors always escorted/guarded?

The answer is yes and there are exceptions. I’ll explain. For the military, yes, absolutely all the time the flag(s) will have two guards. First responders are paramilitary and should follow the same principle, but they don’t always have the manning in their honor guard team at many departments across the country. So, for representation, some teams march flags-only.

To add to that, scout programs do not carry a weapon, so if the team even has guards, they are unarmed.

Guards are not mandatory for civilian and civil teams because the Flag Code does not make that a requirement. Only the military manuals make it a requirement and that only applies to the military.

I hope that helps.

Good morning and thank you for this wonderful information. I cannot find a page that addresses who gets honors at a funeral. For example we have a Commonwealth Attorney who has recently passed. Technically he was considered “the highest law enforcement official” in the Commonwealth since they have law enforcement powers. He was retired from his position at the time of his passing… would a color guard be appropriate?

Having a law enforcement agency honor guard post a color guard for the graveside service is appropriate, if they have the time and manning.

Since he did not die while in office, there isn’t a protocol to support his funeral.

Is it ok for a civilian group…..no military affiliation nor civil, to have a flag presentation for members returning from an Honor Flight? To me it seems wrong and a plain civilian should only have the little hand waving flags. Please advise.

Mr. Resing,

While not necessarily “wrong”, I do see your point. Having said that not just anyone who wears a uniform should think it proper to pick up a flagstaff or rifle and think they are being patriotic without training and practice. It would certainly be inappropriate to have a fast-food restaurant throw four employees together in a color guard just because. That definitely seems wrong.

What standards will this civilian team follow? What training do that have? While the Flag Code sets forth the basis, the military takes standards much further. Finally, why? Why does this group of Americans find it necessary to pull out flagstaffs (and rifles) and not have one of the organizations mentioned below invited to render honors? Why not, as you have written, pick up small flags and wave them as we see many of our fellow Americans do at many parades. Americans take part in patriotic occasions all the time, I see no need for a group of civilians to try to do something others have been doing for decades as part of their job.

I would hope that color guards would be left to the military, cadets, first responders, and veteran organizations.

I am making a bulletin for a funeral at my church. The deceased is a veteran. We will have an honor guard from the Air Force base to play Taps and present a flag to the widow. What should this be called in the order of worship?

Thank you for your time,

Whether graveside or in the church, the religious service usually happens first followed by Military Honors. Military Honors consists of a firing party firing the Three Volley Salute and the sounding of Taps. For Veteran Funeral Honors, most often the military provides two service members to fold the flag and then sound Taps (in that order). You still call this Military Honors.

How would you recommend we handle a memorial service that is NOT part of a funeral? My church is hosting a memorial service for my dad but he will not be buried until much later. Is it appropriate to post colors in a situation like that? How would you handle it? Thanks very much

My condolences to you and your family on the passing of your father.

While the military, including veteran organizations, cannot render honors more than once (presentation of the flag, firing party, and Taps), the community/church membership can have the colors present for the memorial and have a nice service that centers around the stories each one can tell, a less formal occasion. Then, when the time comes to bury the deceased, the formal military honors can be performed.

That’s how I see it. I hope that is helpful for you.

The VFW and American Legion are conducting a Veteran’s Dinner. The local JROTC will post the colors at the beginning of the dinner but the colors will not be retrieved prior to the dinner ending. What is the protocol when not retrieving the colors? Does the National Anthem get played? As the Master of Ceremonies do I just announce an end to the formal portion of the dinner followed by attendees either staying to socialize or leaving the building?

The Star-Spangled Banner is only played or sung on the presentation of the colors and that is always at the beginning of a ceremony.

The colors are posted at formal occasions and retrieved only at very, very formal occasions.

At the end of the formal part of the evening, you can simply announce that and that guests are invited to socialize (and that the dance floor is open) for the rest of the night.

Good evening,

Recently my colorguard was performing at a high school football game. Do to some technical problems they couldn’t play the National anthem so they did a moment of silence. In the moment I kept my CG at present during the moment of silence. If this happens again what is the proper way to go about it?

First of all, you did an excellent job at the spur of the moment thinking. If you know there’s a technical issue at the outset, march on, guards go to Present on your command and that’s it. The departmental or organizational flag would not dip since it would only dip for the Star-Spangled Banner. I hope you are aware that military flags don’t dip every time you give the command to Present.

If a technical problem happens in the moment, just use your best judgment again.

Drillmaster,

Is there a certain requirement for the color guard on number of members for nber of flags being raised? We are a Girl scout group that dies regular flag ceremonies at annual girl scout events seasonally and we include the US flag, the state flag and the GS flag, it has come under question recently if there should be at least a certain number of girls in the color guard for that number of flags. Any information would be greatly appreciated!!

Thank you!!

There’s no requirement other than one color bearer per color. That’s it. If you want to provide guards to march at either end, you most certainly may. Civilian organizations like Scouts are not required to provide anything else.

I know this question may make someone’s eye twitch, but can veterans perform color guard duties in civilian clothes for an informal event? Over the past 15+ years, a local organization has had a very successful veteran golf outing which included a color guard to kick it off. There has always been support by either a local National Guard or Reserve unit, VFW post, or American Legion post (all in uniform). This year we have completely exhausted trying to find a group that can do it. We have veterans who are golfing who have volunteered to do the color guard, but only 1 still has a dress uniform (which doesn’t fit well). We’d still like to continue the tradition, but I don’t want anyone having heart attacks when they see 4 guys in polos and shorts posting the colors. Thanks for any insight…

No eye twitching here. What you describe sounds like the perfect solution. Four guys in polo shirts and shorts (a uniform of sorts) presenting the colors just before the golf tournament in which they will participate works.

I am organizing a parade in a small town of Arkansas. I would like to include a color guard. I’m wondering whom I could contact to arrange this. Any information you could provide would be helpful. Thank you & thank you for your service.

Ms. Pierron,

Your local police department, sheriff’s office, fire department, veteran group, and high school JROTC are all liable to have a color guard each.

RE: White Gloves

I’ve heard that white gloves are only to be worn with long sleeve uniform. I’ve also heard that they may be worn with short sleeve as well. Which is it? Both? Is there a proper white glove etiquette?

Traditionally, military members have always presented the colors in the Class A or ceremonial uniform and both only have long sleeves. This is probably where the “white gloves are only worn with long sleeves” idea comes from. There’s no rule that I’m aware of. It is best, however, to tuck the sleeve of the glove into the the hand so that the glove’s crease is at the wrist. That presents a professional image. DM

I belong to a Veterans Group and we are having our 40th. Anniversary. I need some help on placing the following flags

American Pow/Mia Org flag Agent Orange

Any assistance would be so appreciated.

Mr. Davison,

As you look at the flags (audience’s perspective), the American will be on your left, (state flag goes here, if you choose to display it,) the organization’s flag is next (at the American’s left, viewer’s right), the Agent Orange flag, and then last is the POW/MIA flag.

Please let me know if you have any further questions.

I am the clerk of the school board for a school system in Virginia. Our board holds twice-monthly meetings. We have five high schools in our county, so on a rotational basis we have a high school JROTC color guard unit come in to present the colors for our Pledge of Allegiance at each board meeting.

I have no military background myself, so please forgive my ignorance about protocols. My question for you is this: How should I refer to the color guard unit’s presentation? Is it “posting” of the colors or is it “presentation” of the colors? (Or something else?)

We’re located next door to Quantico. Out of respect for our local military families, I want to be accurate in how I refer to the color guard presentation on our meeting agendas. Thanks in advance for your help.

Sir/Ma’am,

I very much appreciate you wanting to use the correct terminology. I just updated the article to include that information and I’ll provide it for you here.

All colors presentations are a Presentation. When the occasion is more formal, the colors are posted. Your meetings are not in the formal category, so your announcement would be, “Ladies and gentlemen, please rise for the presentation of the colors by XYZ high school Junior ROTC.”

Again, thank you for your attention to detail!

At the beginning of our University’s Women’s Basketball game, it has been customary that an ROTC Color Guard enter the Arena, formally, and present the Colors, followed by the National Anthem. During the first game of this season, the Color Guard entered , as usual. The PA announcer directed the audience to join in the playing of the Black Anthem, which was followed by the National Anthem. The audience was standing, holding their right hands on their hearts, expecting the National Anthem. The Black Anthem is a beautiful song with inspirational lyrics, but is it expected that the audience be showing the same respect by standing as if the National Anthem was being played?

Thank you for your question. From a protocol standpoint, the public is asked to stand for national anthems. These anthems represent nations and not just people based on any other factor (language, skin color, etc.). It is respectful to stand for the anthems of friendly foreign countries at sporting events in the USA where a Canadian or Mexican team might play an American team. The foreign anthem is played first and the home anthem, our Star-Spangled Banner is this case, is played last.

The announcer can say, “Ladies and gentlemen, the Black Anthem.” After it is finished the announcer should say, “Ladies and gentlemen, please rise, (men remove your hats, and place your right hand over your heart) for the Star-Spangled Banner.” Here is where the color guard would go to Present Arms and the anthem would then begin.

I hope you find this helpful. Protocol and military standards are both very specific.

Hi DrillMaster,

First, thanks for a wonderful website and your time in effort maintaining it.

I am an adult leader and our Boy Scout Troop has been asked to provide the color guard to present the colors for the Veteran’s Day opening day ceremony of our chartered organization school. I’ve read about what you describe as a Show-n-Go, which is what they are asking for. This will take place in the school courtyard where no colors are previously posted. Our Scouts (both Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts) will be in Class-As.

Our color guard would use our American flag on our flag pole. They would enter from audience front left, walk to the center, pivot right, go up some stairs and then use Every Left On to present the colors on the right of the speaker. The Cub Scouts would lead in Pledge of Allegiance, then the school would sing the Star Spangled Banner. Finally we would exit.

I’ve only previously posted colors for our weekly Troop meetings or seen color guard posting colors at Summer Camp.

How does this sound? Anything to improve or change? What would an example script look like for something like this look like?

Thanks for your help!

Sir, Excellent plan!! I’m very impressed that you have read so much of my website and then formulated the process that fits your situation best. Well done! The script might go:

Announer: ladies and gentlemen, please rise for the presentation of the colors, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the (playing/singing of the) Star-Spangled Banner.

Colors enter and post.

Pledge and anthem. (Note, both are not necessary. The anthem takes precedence.)

Colors depart.

Announcer: please be seated.

I hope that’s helpful and that you and your Scouts have a great time.

Our Girl Scout troop is excited to participate in their school’s Veterans Day program and has the honor of being the Color Guard. This will be the girls second time and they take this very seriously. The teacher responsible for coordinating the program has requested they both raise the flag and present the Colors. My concern is there is no official “protocol” for this and we may inadvertently offend someone or disrespect the flag/Veterans in attendance in some way by doing this.

Is there a protocol for this? Or should we respectfully push back on doing both? Your guidance is greatly appreciated.

Girl Scout troop leader

Ms. DeLoach,

What a great opportunity for your girls!

There isn’t a protocol problem with having both, but it is out of the norm.

For the colors presentation, the Star-Spangled Banner is played and for the flag raising (called a Flag Detail), the anthem is also played. I suggest only the Flag Detail for this reason.

You can present the colors, have the team remain, bring the Flag Detail in, but if you don’t have enough members to do both simultaneously, the color guard can present and depart.

Please let me know if you require any information specific to the color guard or Flag Detail. I’m more than happy to assist.

I am the director of a community youth choir and we are presenting a Veteran’s Day Concert in a few weeks. I have invited a color guard to present the flags to open the program. I am planning to follow with the Star Spangled Banner. Should the flags be presented in a quiet auditorium or with music in the background? Also, once the flags are on stage should they be retired at the end of the program since this is not a formal event? I’ve read many comments but wasn’t sure. I was wondering about having taps played at the end of the program following a song which honors our veterans. The reason was to honor friends and family of our veterans who may no longer be with us. A veteran told me this should be all right. Is this appropriate (I understand Memorial Day is in memory of those we’ve lost) and should taps be played before flags are retired if at all? I am putting the program together and wanted to make sure we were following correct protocol. Thank you!

Ms. Hesinch,

What a thoughtful question. I appreciate it when my fellow Americans care about doing the right thing.

Here is my suggestion for you to begin the program: Announcer: “Ladies and gentlemen, we will begin in just a few minutes. Please silence all cell phones.” The color guard posts to their staging position and stands at Parade Rest. At the scheduled time: “Ladies and gentlemen, please rise for the presentation (posting) of the colors.” This is the cue for the color guard to come to Attention, Carry Colors, and to march forward to center on the audience (on stage). Background music is not appropriate but the Trio section of National Emblem is a great military standard. You can find it here: href=”https://youtu.be/xJGATbPTy7E” title=”Trio to National Emblem” rel=”noopener” target=”_blank”> the link opens a new tab in your browser. Playing this section of the march (this slowly) can be very awkward for color guard members who do not have experience. If the team has not marched to music before, I suggest silence.

When the team commander gives “Present Arms!” (it needs to be a loud command), that’s when the Star-Spangled banner is played. When then the music finishes, the team can depart if an American flag is already in view, or they can post the flags in stands on the stage. Once the team posts the flags, they depart and the announcer tells the audience: “Please be seated.”

The lack of formality of the event requires the flags to not be formally retired. The color guard can informally gather the flags after the event is finished. Flags are only retired at “white tie” type events and those are quite rare.

Veterans Day recognizes living veterans, we do not collectively mourn the loss of veterans who have died on this day. It is inappropriate to sound (not play) Taps for the event. The veteran who told you it would be alright is incorrect. Taps is sounded for deceased veterans at their funerals, they are recognized then. As you noted, Memorial Day is for the veterans who did not return home alive and Taps is appropriate then.

Please let me know if you have any further questions and, again, thank you for being diligent in seeking to follow protocol.

Thank you! Your response is very helpful and much appreciated!

Is it ok to present the colors in a uniform other than dress uniform? For example OCPs (Operationl Camouflage pattern)?

The color guard should be in the same uniform as the official party. On a military installation, presenting in the utility uniform can be perfectly accessible. Off base, it’s not a good choice. Class A should be the standard.

What would be the appropriate way to present an Armed Forces Color Guard and a foreign national flag at an event.

The Army, Air Force, and Space Force, according to their regulations, can include the foreign national flag in the formation.

The Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard, according to their regulations, must have a separate three-man team to carry the foreign national flag.

So, whichever standards you follow, or, if you are a mixed (veteran) group, choose to follow, you are covered.

Thank you for the response. To elaborate it is an active duty Armed Forces Color Guard (9 Person with all services). I’ve heard that with joint service teams the senior service manual is used, however I haven’t seen any clear guidance or regulations for Joint Service Color Guards.

The joint service color guard made up of the service honor guard units in and around Washington DC use the Army ceremonial techniques.

The same goes for any time two or three teams perform at the same ceremony. The senior service always leads.

From this we can take note that the senior service is the one to follow.

Hello, we are wanting to have a flag posting for the first day of school, we have two options for an outdoors ceremony: Have color guard advance with folded standard which is then presented and then hoisted, recite pledge, and then sing school song. OR; Have standard posted on outdoor pole, and then have color guard advance with U.S. flag and school flag, present the colors, say pledge, sing school song, and then dismiss flags, then carry on the rest of the ceremony. Which would be the best alternative? And perhaps the wording of the best alternative-“please stand for the presentation of the colors”, etc.

Mrs Peterson,

Thank you for your question. What great ideas!

Your first idea is for a Flag Detail (not called a color guard). The flag detail brings in the national (state, school) with one bearer per flag and two team members to work the halyard. I would stick with just raising the national on one pole if you have separate poles and then raise the others after the ceremony or, if you have one pole and two flags, that would work just as easily. The procedure would be: Announcer- “Ladies and gentlemen, please rise for the advancement and raising of our national flag (nation’s colors).” Everyone stands, flag detail enters, attaches flag, commander gives “Present, ARMS”, flag is raised to the top, halyard secured, halyard bearers salute, commander gives “Order, ARMS”. Flag Detail remains at pole (can be dismissed, but adds to the timing and can seem awkward for what follows). Announcer-“Please join in the Pledge of Allegiance.” Recitation. Sing school song. Dismissal. If you are going to have the color guard, same procedure as above except for the following. Announcer- “Ladies and gentlemen, please rise for the presentation of the colors.” Color guard is centered and facing the audience, commander gives “Present, ARMS”. Pledge, song. Announcer- “Ladies and gentlemen, please rise for the dismissal of the colors.”

If everyone is standing and no one is seated, then the announcement could be, “Ladies and gentlemen, please direct your attention to the front (flag pole) for the…”

I hope that helps. Please let me know if you have any further questions.

Our City is organizing a 9/11 event and would like our Color Guard team to perform. We are always first up to start off any event we attend. They have us scheduled for the end. What is your take on that? Thank you!

MSgt Piccolo,

Thank you for your question. I first thought you were going to say that the team would be second, maybe third, but last?

It’s quite possible that another color guard will formally present the colors for the anthem and that your team will have a special presentation (akin to retrieving the colors possibly) to close out the event.

I know that many event organizers try to include as many local organizations as possible and even rotate through these organizations for yearly events.

I do think you should contact those in charge and see what their thinking is and how your team fits in as presenting last is unusual. You want to guard against thinking that puts the honor of the flag and the team at risk.

Please let me know what happens as I am quite curious!

Dear sirs We are having a family reunion and would like to have a flag presentation of some kind. We have no scout troops and no one in uniform. What would be acceptable.

May I suggest either mount the flag on a building or post or have a pole, permanent or temporary, in the ground and raise the flag and have everyone recite the Pledge.

OK US Flag is prePosted at stage on left about fron left of table-podium with Eagle facing away from assembly. To present or is it Post the colors, they rotate the Eagle towards the assembly. And we salute during the Turning saying “PRESENT ARMS” then when done say “TWO”.

We are being told that US Flag should be PUSHED BACK away from Podium-Table to RETIRE IT?

Where is this WRITTEN as FLAG ETIQUETTE? To Move US FLAG forward to Front of Podium-Table at beginning of a Meeting and then Push it Back to RETIRE it? This has caused some negative comments as to what is the right way to PRESENT prePosted US Flag and then to RETIRE a PrePosted US FLAG???? I trust my questions about situation makes sense as to how to CORRECTLY prsent and retire a prePOSTED US FLAG. Thanks.

Neither rotating nor pushing a posted flag back and forth has anything to do with flag etiquette. Whoever thought this up did just that- thought it up. It has no basis in reality as far as protocol is concerned.

Posting a flag means to bring it before an audience, present it with the Star-Spangled Banner, post it and have the individual depart. The Pledge can be a substitute, but is usually for civilian audiences. Military audiences use the national anthem since our oath covers us for life.

To retire the colors means the opposite: to retrieve the flag, salute it, and have the flag leave the presence of the audience.

The commands for rendering a salute are: “Present, ARMS!” and then “Order, ARMS!” that is the Army, Air Force, and Space Force technique. “Hand, SALUTE!” followed by “Ready, TWO!” are the commands that the Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard use. You are mixing the two and using an incomplete command.

Having a preposted flag is just fine. It should not be rotated, pushed forward, or pushed backward. As long as the flag has a prominent place during your meetings, you are following protocol. Any other time, the flag can be less prominent- pushed back to the rear of the stage.

I hope this helps. DM

Hello, Recently I was at a High School Graduation and the U.S. Flag was present on stage along with the state flag. Before the graduation started the color guard marched in with the U.S. Flag and state. The National Anthem was played and the color guard marched out with the U.S. Flag and state. Is this proper, to have two U.S. Fags present?

This is a great question, thank you for it.

I have recently found out that some believe having two American flags at the same ceremony is somehow inappropriate. I don’t know where this idea comes from but it’s not true.

What you saw is called a show-n-go in the ceremonial drill world and is perfectly acceptable. It’s performed when posting the colors would be too formal and a school graduation is not a formal enough occasion.

I hope this answers your question satisfactorily.

We may have an event where one set of flags (American flag and two organizational flags) will be pre-posted and one will be posted by the color guard. I am directing the color guard, but I am *very* low pay-grade, and this is a national organization. Our Administrator will be there. I am urging a show-and-go, but I’m not optimistic. If we *must* post the colors, where should the pre-posted colors be, and where should we post? I’m thinking pre-posted on their own left and posting on their own right. There will be a stage. Would it be better to have the pre-posted flags on the stage? If so, do we post to the left or would splitting be better (American on its right on one side of the stage; organizational flags on the other side)?

I feel your pain here. If you are unable to show-no-go (so glad you are aware of that!), I think your split post idea on the stage sounds like your best option. As I picture it in my mind, the split would have less of an impact on everyone noticing that org flag(s) will already be there. It’s bad protocol to not post all flags, but you have to work within your parameters.

Does the Color Guard dip the Service Flag when taps are being played?

Mr. Koehmlein,

Yes. Taps requires a salute when played at a funeral.

If you are posting colors at an organizational event but the aisle is not very wide, would it be appropriate to line up single file, American Flag in the front and Organization banners bringing up the rear?

Yes, that is called column formation. It is most appropriate!

I FEEL LIKE A FOOL, BUT WHAT DOES THE HONOR GUARD DO AND WHAT DOES THE COLOR GUARD DO. I HAVE TO PLAN A MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY AND I DO NOT KNOW WHAT FLAGS THE COLOR GUARD CARRIES. WE HAVE CG, ARMYNG, MAARNG, AIR FORCE, 6W SPACE SQUADRON AT OUR SERVICE. WHICH FLAGS DO WE ASK TO BE PRESENT?

Hello sir, Many people get the terms honor guard and color guard confused. An honor guard is a ceremonial unit, a team of individuals. This unit breaks down into the three ceremonial elements: color guard, pallbearers, and firing party. Team members also perform a variety of other ceremonial duties: cordon, personak escort, Missing Man Table, Flag Detail, etc. The flags of each service present would be appropriate. Depending on the ceremony, you could have all six departmental flags posted on the stage (or just the American and state flags) and have the color guard bring in the flags of the services present for a presentation only and not have them posted. That would be the easiest.

JROTC in my child’s High School practices presenting colors in the morning (by the parking lot where students get dropped off) with the USA flag fully flying. Is flying the colors during practice appropriate? I’ve been out of the military for a while, but it seems disrespectful to fly the colors during practice and see cars and students casually walk by the colors without saluting it. Seems to me that practicing presenting colors should be done with just a flag pole.

I understand how you feel about this and I wholly agree your assessment. Only the Marine Corps Order (governing the Marine Corps, navy, and Coast Guard) states that practice should be accomplished with a furled and cased flag.

The issue we come across is muscle memory. Cadets practice and rehearse the exact procedures for a color guard in competition. The techniques they use require full access to the flag for the realism of practice so that nothing is a surprise when they step onto the competition deck. TO that end, it’s my opinion that color guards should practice with two state flags or practice flags made specifically for this situation.

The last thing we want is to have the presence of the American flag to be seen as commonplace and ignored. We may be too late in that regard.

Thank you very much for your comment.

How do one person post the US Flag inside?

You would enter into the room, stand centered on and facing the audience for the Pledge or anthem, and when either (not both) is finished, turn and post the flag. It’s not ideal, but it is a situation that some are forced into.

Is it allowed for the Color Guard to prese.t the colors to any other song then the national anthem?

Just to be sure, a color guard never dips the American flag, it remains vertical or slightly angled forward, depending on the service (See “The Why of the Color Guard” series of articles for more information). A color guard carrying one or more US military service colors only dips those colors in salute to the national anthems of the US and friendly nations. These requirements are spelled out in AR 840-1, MCO 5060.2, and AFI 34-1201 and apply to all services. All state flags are dipped to the anthems as well. There is no other music where dipping flags would be appropriate.

We post the colors at our Catholic Church every Memorial Day. Usually we have two of us in Class A uniform. I will be in uniform and a Knights of Columbus in uniform. I will be in class A uniform and carrying the Flag and he will carry the church Flag. We mean no disrespect, and honor Memorial Day. There is limited space, We pray that the critics will have a soft heart , we stand for the Flag and kneel for the Fallen

Mr. Zimmerman,

I have done the same thing on past Memorial Days, it’s just been me in uniform posting the American flag. The other veterans in my congregation have at least 20 years on me and have been happy to let me do it. You work with what you have and if you have just the two of you, all that matters is the intent behind your actions. Thank you for stepping up to serve our country years ago and now honor our fallen brothers- and sisters-in-arms.

I think I know the answer but want to clarify. During the Covid thing we are dealing with, my veterans org has been asked to do a color guard for a Memorial Day service. The current policy of the organization (all vets orgs in this state at the moment) is that we do not do color guards, so that means uniforms are out. If I am reading this correctly, color guards are done in class A’s, period. Am I correct in assuming that I will be disappointing the guy putting this together? IMHO, doing it wrong is more disrespectful than not doing it. It might be a moot point due to the short notice I may not get enough people anyway but I would like to know.

I don’t understand why your organizations would not perform colors presentations. Have we in the military not stood up in times of need?

Orders from a government official are not enforceable law.

Class A or B is appropriate for colors, A being preferable.

This may be a moot question, as it pertains to a fictional situation, but I like to have my writings as accurate as possible, despite it being science fiction.

The situation is a wedding. The Bride is a RAAF Flight Lieutenant, the Groom a USSF Captain. The ceremony takes place in an ecumenical chapel on a privately-owned, UN-administered island in the South China Sea. (Ceded from a future Chinese government for the establishment of an international space launch center.)

I’d like to begin the ceremony with positing of colors, with one flag bearer and one guard from each service. Would this be proper, given the circumstances? And would this happen before or after the entry of the mother of the Bride (the traditional signal for the start of a Christian wedding ceremony)?

Please and Thank You.

Mr. Harris,

Posting the colors before the whole ceremony would be perfectly acceptable but only on the fourth Monday of June in a year ending with an even number if the moon was in it’s 3/4 waxing state and there was a partial solar eclipse the following Thursday afternoon between 1343 and 1427. :-)

Seriously, colors are not presented or posted for weddings. If colors are present in the chapel, they are pre-posted and only the two national colors are authorized in this situation. The Christian flag could also be displayed.

Oh, and China would never give up any land whatsoever for any kind of use.

Is there a standard size, ie 5×8, for the colors being presented in a Show-n-Go? Also, do the colors have to have a fringe? I’m inquiring about a color guard that will be composed of Boy and Girl Scouts.

Thanks, Dimitra

Hello Dimitra,

Thank you for your question.

For Scouting programs I suggest the 3’x4′ flag on an 8′ staff. If you were to follow the Army standard, which most do, all flags are required to have gold colored fringe.

I hope that is helpful and am happy to answer any other questions you may have.

Copy all and thanks. The colors will not be presented at scouting events. They will be presented at Township functions such as Memorial Day, Veterans Day and parades. The older scouts will be carrying them. Should they be larger given their purpose?

Good copy and thanks. The colors will be presented at Township events such as Memorial Day, Veterans Day and parades. They will be carried by our older scouts. They are not for scouting events. Given their purpose would I require larger flags?

Not at all. In the ceremonial drill world, you would want 9’6″ staffs with 4’4″x5’6 flags. It’s not necessary to go all out for Scouts, not that Scouts cannot handle it, it’s just not necessary to “go big” when the smaller flags and staffs would fit the bill.

Thanks again. Last set of questions. Is the following flagpole hardware appropriate for our colors: Eagle for the US flag and military spear for the Township and State flags? Or does the hardware have to be uniform, ie all colors have military spears. Lastly, most of our events are outdoors, so which flagpole type is more appropriate wood or aluminum pole?

I would suggest the light ash wood guidon staffs topped with the Army Spearhead finial for all flags. Having said that, I can only recommend. The guidon staffs are built to last when maintained properly (use graphite on all the screws and joints and regularly ensure that the screws are tight).

Dear Drillmaster,

I am in the process of ordering flags and equipment for our boy scout color guard to be used primarily at our Township Veterans Day and Memorial Day ceremonies. I have decided with the flag sizes of 4′.3” x 5′.5” in accordance with the flag code for the US, State and Township flags. I read your blog on To Fringe or not to Fringe and tend to agree with you that nothing should be attached to the US flag as per the code, although I understand this requirement varies by each branch of service. For my purposes, what do you advise? Keep it simple and use flags with no fringes? Or include the fringes?

Hello Dimitra! I really appreciate your research into this, it makes the process so much easier and you end up spending money on the right equipment. Well done! I say, forget the fringe. Whole it may have served a purpose a hundred-plus years ago, it’s no longer necessary, nor appropriate, even. If you would, please send me a photo of your your troop with their new equipment, I would very much enjoy seeing and posting about a leader who has done things the right way. By the way, http://www.colonialflag.com is your best friend in this situation. Let them know I sent you.

I seek a practical reality check about long distance marching with the flag. Just as a matter of physical activity doing 10-20 miles several days in a row is a lot different than hiking with a pack. Obviously a color guard would want to work up to this, as athletes train for any event. I’d appreciate insight as to knowing whether such a goal is a reasonable one in the first place? Between the weight, the size, the length of the staff, the terrian and the weather there are obviously many factors. Do you experienced flag marchers have any insights or rules of thumb etc to share?

When our city has a parade, they have a chorus stand in front of the color guard and sing the national anthem. Many of us think that is wrong. We think the chorus should stand behind the color guard. What is the proper way to do this or doesn’t it matter?

The colors should be front and center for presentations. The choir needs to be heard, not seen. The color guard is what needs to be seen. While our Flag Code does not specifically address this type of situation, we can get a sense of color guard location from reading the guidelines set forth in it: the flag is always to have the position of honor and dignity. It is to be seen clearly by as many people (in this case) as possible.

Thank you very much for your question, I hope this helps shed light to help your community better honor the flag.

Yes, thank you. It was just what I was looking for.

Drill Master,

I’m the MC for an upcoming Veterans Day Ceremony which consists of Presentation of Colors and the playing of the National Anthem.The event will be outdoors at a Veterans Park Memorial. The scouts will be carrying the colors. The scoutmaster is prior service like myself and we both want to introduce some military protocol with the civilian scout commands. The mayor will be speaking at the event. Is it appropriate at an outdoor event prior to posting the colors for the scoutmaster to report ‘The Colors are Present’ to the mayor since she is highest ranking? Or is it more appropriate to present the colors to the audience, present arms, National Anthem is played, colors are posted? Similarly, before the colors are retired is it appropriate outdoors to request permission to retire the colors?

Great questions! What you are talking about is an Army procedure of reporting to the commander at a dining-in (for instance). The commander would know exactly what to do and say. Since you are dealing with a civilian for your ceremony, the mayor, I would suggest not introducing something that is accomplished in a military setting. On a similar note, I truly appreciate the scoutmaster and you wanting the scouts to be more aware of colors standards! One last suggestion – have a set of flags already posted and the scouts present a second set colors and march out. What we in the ceremonial drill world call a Show-n-go. The reason being is that posting the colors is for more formal occasions and indoor settings. So, the sequence of events would look like this: announcement to stand, colors brought forward, salute, Anthem, back to Carry/Port, depart, continue with the ceremony.

Thank you for your prompt and thorough response. I have one follow up question. I’m falling in on a program which always involved posting and retiring the colors and the program has been printed with this protocol. I never questioned it until I started to research the protocol since I am the MC. Even if we don’t execute a show-n-go is it proper to post and retire outdoors? I read in the FM that this protocol is reserved for indoors but can it still be executed outdoors? We also don’t have two sets of colors unless the scouts have a presentation set. The American, State and Township colors will be borrowed from the courthouse.

Having the program already printed presents a challenge for you this year. Since you don’t have two sets of colors, you might have to follow the program, however here us an idea: pre-post the US, state, & township colors and then borrow another US and state (& township) from a local police or fire department, sheriff’s office, or even the local staties for the scouts. The presentation would be easily glossed over instead of having the scouts post. No problem there except for wording. The retirement of the colors (really only accomplished on *very* formal occasions- black tie/mess dress) could be substituted with the Pledge or skipped with an announcement like, “That concludes our Veterans Day ceremony, thank you for attending.” or something similar.

Thank you very much. I think we can make that happen. The reference to retiring of the colors is at the very end In small font. There is no reference to posting in the program, only Presentation of the Colors. I could white out retiring of the colors if necessary. I’m having a meeting with the scout leader prior to our rehearsal next week where I expect to flush all this out. Thanks again. Your advise is very helpful. Dimitra

My pleasure, I’m glad I could help.

At the beginning of a football game, a local group of Boy Scouts will be unfurling a large US flag on the field. What is proper protocol for color guard ? thank you

Stand on the side where the bottom of the flag will be and present to that side of the stadium. The crowd on that side should see the large American flag opened so that the canyon is in the upper left corner.

DrillMaster–thank you very much for getting back to me so quickly. Will do!

I was wondering I see the USAF Honor Guard shouldering their rifles on their outside shoulders. Where is that exactly written?

The USAF Honor Guard, including the base-level teams use their own manual but it is based off of AFMAN 36-2203 where you see both rifle guards at the outside shoulder.

In a parade, does a national veterans service organization colorguard, such as the VFW, have a higher precedence (order of unit line up) than a non-veteran color guard such as the Shriners?

Great question. I would say yes, but a parade lineup doesn’t necessarily have precedence, although it can. The organizers can and do place entrants however they wish.

RE: The Pledge and National Anthem DO NOT go together. It’s one or the other. DO not use both. Can you elaborate? What reference establishes this protocol or instruction to which, or all, Services?

I’ve seen many ceremonies with the color guard presenting arms for the anthem, then port arms and wait for the pledge before retiring with the colors.

I’ve seen several ceremonies where both happen as well, doesn’t make it right.

Each set of service manuals (drill and ceremonies, protocol, and flag) explains when to dip the American flag, ceremonies are explained with reference to the Star Spangled Banner sung or played. We do not add to or take away from the protocols for these ceremonies and that includes recitation of the Pledge. We, in the military, do not have the Pledge as a part of any ceremony due to our oath. Too many people, wholly ignorant of service standards and traditional want to make things “specialer” or “ceremonialer” by adding their own selfish personal touch, making the ceremony about them. You won’t find the negative of what I have stated in a service manual, my statement is mix of the intent of several manuals.

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I recently attended a funeral – the PGR provided honors…during the ceremony, the PGR Flag Line held the American Flag in the left hand and when “Present Arm’s” command was given, each and every flag holder followed the command and rendered the hand salute via their right hand. Is this a proper, rendering a hand salute while bearing the flag?

Mr. Rudell,

Saluting while holding the flag is not proper. Even though the people holding the flags are not part of a color guard complete with rifle guards, they are still color bearers and considered “armed” (the flagstaff is a modern modification of the ancient spear). When your hand is occupied with a flag, you do not salute. Most likely the majority of PGR members are former military and should know better.

When standing a Flag Line at a funeral as an American Legion Rider, standing at attention with U.S.A flagstaff vertical in right hand, bottom of flagstaff on the ground to the right of foot and the VFW Honor Guard caller gives the command “present Arms”, should we raise our flag staff, or just stand there with no action?

Mr. Murphy,

Thank you for your question and continued support as an ALR.

On the command, you and the other flag bearers would remain at Attention. I’m do glad that you are holding the flag properly in the right hand. Many, hold it in the left and render a hand salute, which is incorrect.

While you and the others may want to do more, I can assure you that your presence at funerals is the “salute” that every patriot appreciates.

Good Morning, we are having a July 4th parade are want to make sure we are doing things right. The Navy Color Guard will be front of the parade. When they arrive at the grand stand the national anthem will be sung by a young girl. When is the apporiate time to start singing?

Hi Paul, At the appointed time of the parade start, the MC could say, Ladies and gentlemen, please rise for the National Anthem.” At that point the commander of the color guard, the National Ensign bearer, should give a loud,” Present, ARMS!” and then the singing can begin. At the end of the music, the color guard commander can give “Order, ARMS!” and then “Forward, MARCH!” At that, the festivities begin!

Drill master, I just posted colors for an event there was four of us we had two rifles the American flag bearer and the Washington State flag bearer. When we posted flags into their stands I was under the understanding that when they seated the flags then dress them that they took one step back and the person with the American flag was the only one to render a salute and then they both marched off what is the procedure for this and?

That’s one technique and that’s fine. There are several different ways to post the colors and you seem to have accomplished the mission with honor.

When posting flags what is the proper location of the American flag, does the American flag get posted by it self and all others to the opposite side of the speaker

Mr. Pinkman,

This is a great question! I wrote an article, https://thedrillmaster.org/2017/10/03/the-logical-separation-of-colors/ and have updated the article above to include this.

If you have any further questions, please ask!

What is your experience when it comes to presenting colors for an event and one of the members is a no-show or is dropped last second due to an injury. What would you do if there is no backup and it is go time? I would think go with no secondary flag and present colors with the national flag bearer and two guards??? Or would it be a situation you just do not perform and inform the event coordinator we can’t perform the event?

Hi Carlos, If you have two guards and an American flag bearer, you are good to go. It’s not usual, but three is the minimum and quite appropriate for military, first responders, explorers, and cadet organization color guards.

our flag should always have guards alongside even not armed but with axes and or just personnell alongside her

Mr. Farrington,

It all depends on the unit. Military color guards are required to be armed with rifles except in a chapel, then they are uncovered and unarmed. Church-based color guards do not have armed guards. Firefighters use the ceremonial fire axe or a rifle, depending on their location/tradition. I’ll be writing an article soon about this.

Current situation,

Have a scout group carrying a folded national standard for hoisting at the beginning of a Memorial Day service…

Service flags in procession to follow for posting in stands around fixed pole.

Was considering the following order of events

BS Unit hoists Colors GS Unit leads pledge National Anthem (now contraindicated by your page information)

Would it be appropriate to have BS hoist while playing “To the Colors” then GS lead pledge?

To the Colors and Pledge sound like the makings of a great ceremony!

For US Army ceremonies (Relief in Place/Transfer of Authority) should a pre-posted National Color be displayed if the ceremony has a Color Guard “posting” another set of colors?

The color guard can enter and formally present the colors and then depart while a set of colors is pre-posted for the ceremony. If the team is actually going to post the colors, no other flags should be in the stands. I hope that helps. If not, I’ll email you or we can talk on the phone.

Preface: I am not military or Law Enforcement. Just looking for some advice so we do the right thing in parades and ceremonies. I belong to a Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians (an Irish/Catholic benevolent Order). When we march, we can carry up to six flags and to pikes. We always put the American flag in the proper place of honor, on its own right. However, there always seems to be confusion on where to place the remaining flags. They are as follows: Current Irish flag (tri-color), Old Irish flag (green field with gold harp), Catholic flag, NY State flag, and the Irish provincial flag (represents the four ancient provinces of Ireland). I know the pikes go on the outsides to “guard” the flags. In what order, starting from the American flag, should the rest be placed?

Hello Patrick,

What a great question! Here’s my take on the order (and the reason why):

1. Right guard 2. American (on American soil) 3. Current Irish (foreign national) 4. NY state (states come after national) 5. Catholic (organizational flag) 6. Old Irish (previous foreign national not officially used) 7. Irish Provincial (ancient foreign national not officially used) 8. Left guard

I hope this helps.

Thank you very much. That is most helpful! Ignore the email I sent you. It was just incase this was not the appropriate place for this question.

Hello and thank you for this informative article. Question: is it appropriate to post the colors while wearing a bowtie? Uniform for upcoming ROTC ball requires the bowtie but I have seen elsewhere that only the straight tie would be appropriate for the posting/retiring of colors. Thanks for your help.

Great question! Simple answer: No. The color guard is dressed in the service dress/Class A or a ceremonial-type of uniform. What you are describing is a mess dress uniform and that is not authorized to be worn for presenting the colors. Mess dress does not include a cover (hat) and a color guard is covered (wears hats) in all situations except inside a chapel.

My JROTC Color Guard has been requested to present/post the Colors at an affair. The host wants us to post the Puerto Rican Flag as well. I’ve never seen this done before. How do we go about it?

If your JROTC is Army or Air Force, the PR flag is included in the formation and posted with the other colors. If your JROTC is Marine Corps, Navy, or Coast Guard, you form another three-man color guard for the PR flag with two guards. The PR and other US territory flags are considered foreign national flags when it comes to flag protocol. Don’t forget your departmental/JROTC flag as well. My recommendation is, if it is an informal occasion, have a full set of colors preposted and come in to formally present the colors and depart. If you cannot do that, post what you have.

Is it appropriate to have a ceremonial rifle as part of the honor guard in a church? I think weapons are not appropriate in churches.

Thank you for your great question. You will want to read this recent article, https://thedrillmaster.org/2016/09/27/weapons-inside-a-chapel/

color members with weapons, is there any requirement to have them on opposite shoulders when marching? one member is at right-shoulder arms, the other is left shoulder arms.

It depends on which service manual you follow. Army has both guards at Right Shoulder. All other services and United States Certified Ceremonial Guardsmen place rifles or axes on the outside/outboard shoulder.

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Tribute speech guide 

- how to prepare a sincere commemorative speech.

By:  Susan Dugdale  | Last modified: 04-18-2021

A tribute speech belongs in a special category of speeches called commemorative. Its principal purpose is to inspire and celebrate; uniting listeners in sincere, heartfelt gratitude and admiration for its subject.

Have you been asked to prepare a tribute speech and need to know more?

What you'll find on this page

• what occasions are most likely to call for a tribute speech
• the characteristics of a tribute speech
• how to begin the process of writing a tribute speech 
• how to choose a topic
• information about eulogies or funeral speeches, (a special type of tribute speech), with links to examples.

What occasions call for a tribute speech?

A tribute speech may be delivered at any of the following celebrations:

Anniversaries

These may be family events for example; a  50th wedding anniversary  or a  milestone birthday , or they could be public ones, for example; celebrations marking historic events like  Remembrance Day  or, the passing of a famous person.

At a family reunion this form of speech may be given to honor its senior members.

Similarly it will be an important part of the reunions of people brought together by work, sport, interests or vocation.

Memorial services or funerals

The eulogy you hear at a memorial service or funeral is a special type of tribute speech celebrating the life of the person who has passed away.

A tribute speech at an award presentation will honor the achievements of the award recipients. For example film, music or sports awards.

Although thought of as  'wedding speeches', the best man, father-of-the-bride speeches and their variations, are all forms of tribute speeches.

Retirements

The tribute speech heard at a retirement celebration honors the retiree by acknowledging their service and contribution.

The characteristics of the speech

Whether the focus is a person,  or an event involving a  group of people, its characteristics are:

• admiration and respect
• a focus on positive qualities: perseverance, dedication, humility, compassion, honesty, trustworthiness, loyalty, sacrifice, service, kindness, humor ...
• highlighting accomplishments and the difficulties overcome to achieve them
• a reflection on the positive impact and contribution of the focal group or person on the lives of others
• grateful acknowledgment of what we can learn from their example to take into the future

How to begin writing a tribute speech

The first step in your process is finding out as much as you can about the occasion itself and then deciding on a topic, (if it hasn't already been decided for you).

You'll want to know:

• who the audience is
• whether you are the only speaker, or one in a series of speakers
• how long you expected to speak for
• whether the event is formal or informal
• if there are any special requirements the organizers may have that need to be included in your speech

How to choose a topic

Generally the occasion chooses it for you! If you're asked to speak at the celebration marking your Mother's 70th birthday or a similar event, then you know what the central topic is.

What you'll need to decide is how to handle it or what angle to take.

Get some help to find the right topic

If it's not clear what you should talk about, you'll find this page on how to select an inspiring tribute or  commemorative speech topic  helpful.

It walks you step by step through the process of finding a topic to suit your audience's needs and has a great selection of carefully picked links to help you research topic possibilities.

Get some help with planning and writing

There's a  tribute speech template  here that will be useful to help you plan the sections of your speech. Use it as a guide.

(On the same page is a speech I wrote to honor my Mother. It follows the template.)

Or if you'd like more than an outline to help you, you'll find the entire process of writing a speech mapped out step by step here:  how to write a speech .

Are you here because you need to prepare a eulogy?

These links below will guide you through the process:

• How to write a eulogy Step by step guidance for preparing, writing and delivering a eulogy with a free printable eulogy planner. 
• And if you'd like to include a special verse or quotation browse these pages of   funeral poems  and  inspirational quotations .

Would you like to read a sample eulogy before you begin?

Reading others can be really useful in helping you decide what you want to achieve with your own speech.

Well known tribute speeches 

Here are three famous speeches, each illustrating the characteristics of a fine commemorative speech.

• Ronald Reagan's tribute for the crew of the  Challenger Space Shuttle  that exploded during its launch.
• Sen. Edward Kennedy's eulogy for his slain brother:   Robert F. Kennedy .
• Oprah Winfrey's eulogy for  Rosa Parks .

Not-so well known tribute speeches

I am very fortunate to have a collection of  not-so famous tribute speeches   on write-out-loud.com.  

These are very special because they're by people probably similar to yourself who have been asked to write a speech about someone they've loved dearly. 

There are eulogies for mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents, colleagues,  and friends.

All of them have been sent in to provide examples to help people who are trying to write.  Seeing how others have handled the task gives them the courage and confidence to begin.

These eulogy pages get thousands of visitors every week.

And lastly, here is that link to the  commemorative speech for my mother.

Do you need help with preparing to deliver your speech?

You'll find everything you need to help you give your speech confidently by visiting the site map .

There's tips on making and using cue cards , how to overcome fear or anxiety of public speaking , how use your voice well , and more.

If you're struggling for words you may like this offer ...

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The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20500

Remarks by President   Biden at Presentation of the Medal of Honor to Army Colonel Ralph Puckett,   Jr.

1:16 P.M. EDT PRESIDENT BIDEN:  Good afternoon everyone, and welcome to the White House. President Moon, it’s a real honor to have you here participating in this ceremony today.  The strength of the alliance between the United States, the Republic of Korea was born out of the courage, determination, sacrifice, and of the Korean troops fighting shoulder-to-shoulder with American troops.  And having you here today is an important recognition of all that our nation has achieved together — both of them — in the decades since.  And I’m joined by my wife, Jill, who’s as excited about this event as I am; the Vice President and the Second Gentleman are here as well; our Secretary of Defense; Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; the officials of the United States Army; as well as several members of Congress — Representative Ferguson, Representative Crow, and Senator Ernst. Because, today, we are hosting a true American hero and awarding an honor that is long overdue — more than 70 years overdue.  Seventy years ago, on a frozen hilltop deep in what is now North Korea, a young First Lieutenant bravely, out of West Point — and barely out of West Point — acted with bravery and — that earned him the Distinguished Service Cross, the military’s second-highest honor. Today, after more than a decade of effort — including support from my good friend, John McCain, God rest his soul, shortly before he passed away — I’m incredibly proud to give Colonel Ralph Puckett’s act of valor the full recognition they have always deserved. Colonel, I’m humbled to have you here today, I really am, along with your loving family, and to award you the Medal of Honor.  And though I understand that your first response to us hosting this event was to ask, “Why all the fuss?”  (Laughter.) “Why all the fuss?  Can’t they just mail it to me?”  (Laughter.) I was going to make a joke about the Post Office, but I decided not to do that.  (Laughter.)  Colonel Puckett, after 70 years, rather than mail it to you, I would’ve walked it to you. (Laughter.)  You know, your lifetime of service to our nation, I think, deserves a little bit of fuss — a little bit of fuss. You know, when I called to tell the Colonel that I had approved this award, I also spoke to Jeannie.  Excuse me for using your first name, but that was my mom’s name too.  And you and my mom have the same eyes, although you’re much — you’re too young to be my mom.  And they’ve been married for 68 years.  We have something else in — we have one thing in common: We both married way up.  (Laughter.)  We both married way up. COLONEL PUCKETT:  (Inaudible.) PRESIDENT BIDEN:  That’s exactly right.  (Laughs.)  Well, Jeannie and Ralph actually met while he was recovering from his wounds.  They were married two years to the day after the battle that we’re recognizing him today for his bravery.  By the way, you all can sit down, I think.  It just dawned on me you all — (laughter).  I understand why you’re standing.  I’d be standing too, but — Jeannie, it’s wonderful to welcome you, and I mean that from the bottom of my heart.  Jill and I know firsthand that it’s not just the person who wears the uniform who serves; military families make enormous sacrifices for our nation.  So let me add our thanks to you and your life of service as well.  I told you earlier that expression by the poet, “They also stand who only — they also serve who only stand and wait.” And you waited a long, long time under many, many, many circumstances.  And that goes to the entire family: Marty and her husband Anthony.  Thomas and partner Chip — I don’t know if they’re here; I didn’t see them yet.  And I know the other daughter, Jeannie, isn’t with us anymore.  Just like I wish our son, Beau, were able to be here to see this, he’s not with us either.  She’s here in spirit and represented by her family.  And I know she’s always in your heart, Colonel, and never leaves.  I also want recognize Master Sergeant Merle Simpson who fought beside the Colonel in Korea.  Where are you?  Stand up, sir.  Come on.  (Applause.)  Who made the trip to Washington today to represent all of their fallen brothers from the Eighth Army Ranger Company.  It’s an honor — it’s an honor for all of their memories as well.  Hill 205 was just 60 miles from the border with China.  And then-Lieutenant Puckett and the Rangers had their orders to take that hill. As a young officer, Lieutenant Puckett knew that something wasn’t quite right.  The intelligence briefing indicated that there were 25,000 Chinese troops in the area, outnumbering U.S. and Korean forces two to three — or excuse me, three to two.  And Lieutenant Puckett though the numbers — thought the numbers for the attack didn’t align with the basic military doctrine.  The Lieutenant believed in the fundamentals.  It was how he trained his men.  It was how he’d hand-picked them and chose them from the ranks of cooks and clerks and mechanics to the first Ranger company since World War II.  Physical conditioning.  Tactical training.  Working as a team.  Get the basics right, then build from there. But Lieutenant Puckett also believed in being there for the fight.  He’d volunteered for the Army Air Corps Enlisted Reserve to try to join — to fight in World War II.  He volunteered to go to Korea, instead of the safer posting in Japan.  He volunteered for the new Ranger company, and then he prayed, “Dear God, don’t let me get a bunch of guys — good guys — killed,” when he was chosen to command that company. So, on the morning of November 25, 1950, mounted on the decks of the tanks, 51 of Puckett’s Rangers and 9 Korean enlisted soldiers set out to take Hill 205. To make their charge, they had to cross about half mile of frozen rice paddies under fire.  And when an enemy machine gunners slowed the Rangers’ advance, Puckett risked his life by running across the area to draw fire that would reveal where the location of the nest.  He did it once.  He did it again.  It took three runs intentionally exposing himself to the enemy to pick off the gunner.  Of course, Colonel Puckett had developed a dangerous hobby, as he recounted in his book, of challenging himself to run in front of speeding cars when he was four years old.  (Laughter.)  So self-preservation, it seemed, was never a primary concern of the Colonel. When the Rangers finally reached the top of Hill 205, they found it abandoned, but Puckett knew the fight wasn’t nearly over.  His men established a defensive perimeter, and then went to coordinate the artillery support he was sure they would need, and, while he was there, to load up on ammunition and grenades — the basics. Shortly after he returned, the first onslaught began.  Mortars followed by a ground assault from the entire Chinese battalion.  Puckett’s Rangers were outnumbered almost ten to one. During the fight, Puckett abandoned the relative safety of his foxhole, moving from man to man, encouraging them in the fight, checking that the perimeter was holding. He took a grenade fragment in his left thigh, but Puckett refused to be evacuated.  He was a Ranger.  He led his men from the front.  And over the course of the next several hours, four more waves of assaults came. Each time, Puckett made his rounds, passing out extra ammo and extra encouragement to rally his men. Each time, he was able to call in artillery support — sometimes “danger close” — to help break the advance of the Chinese soldiers.  Each time, the Rangers held the hill, pushing the enemy back — at times, with hand-to-hand fighting.  About 2:30 a.m., after more than four hours of near nonstop fighting, the sixth wave began.  By this time, the Rangers had — many Rangers had been killed, and those who are left were exhausted, outnumbered, and dangerly [sic] short of amm- — dangerously short of ammunition and grenades.  Lieutenant Puckett had sustained a second wound, this time in his left shoulder.  He had distributed all the ammo to his men, keeping only eight bullets and a bayonet for himself.  For the last time, Puckett called in artillery support, only to be told that the guns were supporting other besieged units. Then two mortar rounds landed directly in Puckett’s foxhole, tearing through both his feet and his backside and his left arm and shoulder.  Puckett’s Rangers had been overwhelmed, and he himself was badly wounded.  He ordered one of his men who found him on the ground to leave him behind.  But that’s not the Ranger creed.  A Private ran for help, and soon two other Rangers charged back up the hill, fighting off advancing Chinese soldiers, retrieving their commander.  They had to drag him down the hill, with Lieutenant Puckett reminding them, and himself, that he could take the pain.  Quote, “I’m a Ranger.”  Before his men loaded him on a tank to evacuate, Lieutenant Puckett called for one final barrage on Hill 205.  And the Eighth Army unloaded artillery, while phosphorus on the Rangers’ former — and phosph- — phosphorus on the Rangers’ former position.  They did not hold the hill, but the Rangers extracted a high price.  Korea is sometimes called the “Forgotten War.”  But those men who were there under Lieutenant Puckett’s command — they’ll never forget his bravery.  They never forget that he was right by their side throughout every minute of it.  And the people of the Republic of Korea haven’t forgotten, as evidenced by the fact that the  Prime Minister  [President] of Korea is here for this ceremony.  I doubt this has ever happened before — I can’t say that for certain, but I doubt it’s happened before.  The Americans — all Americans, like Ralph Puckett, joined in their fight.  And while the enduring partnership between our two nations began in war, it has flourished through peace.  It’s the — it’s a testament, I think, to the extraordinary strength of our alliance.  And we’re joined today, as I said, by President Moon, who — I can’t tell you how happy I am he’s able to be here.  And if I may, I’d like to invite President Moon to say a few words, if that is okay.  President Moon.  PRESIDENT MOON:  (As interpreted.)   Mr. President, thank you for your words.  I find it truly meaningful to join the Medal of Honor presentation ceremony for Colonel Ralph Puckett Jr., U.S. Army Retired, upon President Biden’s invitation.  I learned that I’m the first foreign leader to ever attend a ceremony of such kind.  As President of the Republic of Korea, it is a great honor and pleasure. Colonel Puckett is a true hero of the Korean War.  With extraordinary valor and leadership, he completed missions until the very end, defending Hill 205 and fighting many more battles requiring equal valiance.  Without the sacrifice of veterans, including Colonel Puckett and the Eighth Army Ranger Company, freedom and democracy we enjoy today couldn’t have blossomed in Korea. Earlier, Colonel Puckett told me that when he was in Korea during the Korean War, it was absolutely destroyed.  That was true, but from the ashes of the Korean War, we rose, we came back.  And that was thanks to the Korean War veterans who fought for Korea’s peace and freedom.  And now, thanks to their support and efforts, we are enjoying prosperity.  On behalf of the Korean people, I express deep gratitude and respect to them.  Through the war veterans, the Korean people saw a great soul of America that marches toward freedom and peace.  Their acts of gallantry, sacrifice, and friendship will forever be remembered. The ROK-U.S. alliance, forged in blood of heroes, has become a linchpin of peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula and beyond.  Colonel Puckett and his fellow warriors are link that strongly binds Korea and the U.S. together.  I pray that they stay with us in good health for a long time. Thank you very much.  (Applause.) PRESIDENT BIDEN:  Well, thank you, President Moon.  Now, I’d be remiss if I didn’t note that Ralph Puckett’s service to our nation did not end in the Korean War. It did not end after his service in the Vietnam War, where he earned a second Distinguished Service Cross, two Silver Stars, and two Bronze Stars with “V” for Valor.  And add to that, during his service, five Purple Hearts for injuries suffered in combat. And it didn’t end after his retirement from active duty or his induction into the Ranger Hall of Fame.  It didn’t end there either, when he served as the Honorary Colonel for the 75th Ranger Regiment, where he’d help new generations of Rangers during their training missions. Even now — even now, you can find him out at Fort Benning, cheering on the Rangers and letting them know he’s there with them. Over his career, he mentored countless young people.  He’s always believed that all that mattered to be a Ranger was if you had the guts and the brains.  That’s the standard he applied when he picked that first Ranger unit in Korea.  In an Army that had only recently been integrated, he chose with — his team included a Black, a Latino, and Asian American members.  As my mother would say, “God love you, man.”   In 2015, during the Obama-Biden administration, when the military was considering opening all combat positions to women, including Rangers, Colonel Puckett let it be known that he thought women could meet the standards, and said: “I want to see them do it.” He leads from the front.  He leads by example.  He leads with heart.  He is a Ranger, and that’s how Rangers lead — that’s how you lead.  So now, it is my great honor to ask for the citation to be read and to award Colonel Puckett, Jr. — Ralph Puckett, Jr., with the Medal of Honor. MILITARY AIDE:  The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, March 3rd, 1863, has awarded, in the name of Congress, the Medal of Honor to First Lieutenant Ralph Puckett, Jr., United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. First Lieutenant Ralph Puckett, Jr., distinguished himself by acts of gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty while serving as the commander 8th U.S. Army Ranger Company during the period of 25 November, 1950, through 26 November, 1950, in Korea.  As his unit commenced a daylight attack on Hill 205, the enemy directed mortar, machine gun, and small-arms fire against the advancing force.  To obtain fire, First Lieutenant Puckett mounted the closest tank, exposing himself to the deadly enemy fire.  Leaping from the tank, he shouted words of encouragement to his men and began to lead the Rangers in the attack. Almost immediately, enemy fire threatened the success of the attack by pinning down one platoon.  Leaving the safety of his position, with full knowledge of the danger, First Lieutenant Puckett intentionally ran across an open area three times to draw enemy fire, thereby allowing the Rangers to locate and destroy the enemy positions and to seize Hill 205. During the night, the enemy launched a counterattack that lasted four hours.  Over the course of the counterattack, the Rangers were inspired and motivated by the extraordinary leadership and courageous example exhibited by First Lieutenant Puckett.  As a result, five human-wave attacks by a battalion-strength enemy — enemy element were repulsed.  During the first attack, First Lieutenant Puckett was wounded by grenade fragments, but refused evacuation and continually directed artillery support that decimated attacking enemy formations. He repeatedly abandoned positions of relative safety to make his way from foxhole to foxhole, to check the company’s perimeter and to distribute ammunition amongst the Rangers. When the enemy launched a sixth attack, it became clear to First Lieutenant Puckett that the position was untenable due to the unavailability of supporting artillery fire.  During this attack, two enemy mortar rounds landed in his foxhole, inflicting grievous wounds, which limited his mobility. Knowing his men were in a precarious situation, First Lieutenant Puckett commanded the Rangers to leave him behind and evacuate the area.  Feeling a sense of duty to aid him, the Rangers refused the order and staged an effort to retrieve him from the foxhole while still under fire from the enemy. Ultimately, the Rangers succeeded in retrieving First Lieutenant Puckett and they moved to the bottom of the hill, where First Lieutenant Puckett called for devastating artillery fire on the top of the enemy-controlled hill.  First Lieutenant Puckett’s extraordinary heroism and selflessness above and beyond the call of duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. (The Medal of Honor is presented.)  (Applause.) PRESIDENT BIDEN:  Let me invite the family up.  Come on, get the family up here — all of you, including the grandkids. END            1:40 P.M. EDT

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Award Ceremony Script: Tips and Examples for a Memorable Event

• March 8, 2023
• Education , Emcee , Goodness , Program

Table of Contents

Award ceremony script.

We’ve all been to award ceremonies, those special events where people come together to recognize outstanding achievements. The ceremony is a crucial element of the occasion – celebrating success and recognition for the honorees. But what goes into crafting a successful award ceremony script? It takes more than just a few words on paper; it requires thoughtful consideration of the event’s audience and purpose. In this article, we’ll explore the components that go into creating an effective and engaging award ceremony script.

Several elements are involved in creating an impactful script, from choosing the right words to set the tone. With careful planning, you can ensure that everyone attending feels welcome, honored, and appreciated. Additionally, you should consider the atmosphere of your event and consider how best to communicate your message to truly capture its essence.

Finally, it’s important to remember that every award ceremony is unique. Whether you’re honoring individual accomplishments or celebrating a milestone achievement as an organization, no two ceremonies will be alike – so make sure your script reflects your specific event! With this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to craft an effective award ceremony script that will leave everyone feeling inspired and proud.

Sample Program Script “Award Ceremony Script”

Welcome to the 2023 Awards Ceremony , celebrating excellence in [field/industry] . We have an exciting day planned for you, filled with inspiring stories of triumph, dedication, and perseverance.

To begin, please welcome [MC/host name] , who will be your guide for the day.

[MC/host name] : Good day, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to the 2023 Awards Ceremony. It’s an honor to be here with all of you tonight as we celebrate the incredible achievements of our nominees and winners.

Before we begin the presentation of awards, I would like to take a moment to recognize our sponsors, without whom this event would not be possible. [Name sponsors and thank them for their support.]

Now, let’s get down to the business of the day. We have an impressive lineup of nominees this year, each of whom has made significant contributions to [field/industry] . It’s my pleasure to introduce the first category of the day, [category name]. Please give a warm welcome to our presenters, [presenter names].

[Presenter 1] : Thank you, [MC/host name] . It’s an honor to be here tonight to present the award for [category name]. Our nominees this year have demonstrated exceptional talent, skill, and dedication to their craft.

[Presenter 2] : That’s right, [Presenter 1]. And the nominees for [category name] are [list nominees and provide a brief description of their achievements].

[Presenter 1] : And now, without further ado, the winner of the [category name] award is… [open envelope and announce winner’s name] . Congratulations!

[Presenter 2] : Well done, [winner’s name]! Would you like to say a few words?

[Winner’s name] : Thank you so much for this incredible honor. I want to dedicate this award to [thank specific people, organizations, or causes] . I could not have achieved this without their support and encouragement. Thank you again.

[MC/host name] : Thank you, [Presenters 1 and 2], and congratulations again to [winner’s name]. Our next category is [category name] , which honors [description of category]. Please welcome [Presenters 3 and 4].

And so the day continued, with each presenter announcing the nominees and winners of their respective categories. The ceremony also featured performances by [name of performer/entertainment act] and a special tribute to [name of honoree/cause]. As the day drew to a close, the MC/host returned to the stage for the final remarks.

[MC/host name]: What an incredible day it has been! I am in awe of the talent and achievements we have celebrated here tonight. To all of our nominees and winners, congratulations, and thank you for inspiring us with your hard work and dedication.

Before we wrap up, I would like to thank our event staff and volunteers, who worked tirelessly to make this day possible. And once again, thank you to our sponsors for their support.

As we say goodnight, let’s remember the power of perseverance and the importance of recognizing excellence. Thank you for joining us and have a safe journey home.

Event Planning

When it comes to event planning, a lot goes into ensuring it runs smoothly. From selecting the date and location to crafting the script, every detail needs to be carefully considered.

First, let’s start with the basics: selecting the date and location. This can often be the most difficult part of event planning, as you need to make sure everyone is available on that particular day. You also need to consider any other events that might be happening in the same area and try to avoid scheduling conflicts. Once these details are sorted out, it’s time to move on to the script.

Writing a script for an award ceremony can be quite tricky as you want it to reflect both your organization’s values and also make sure all attendees enjoy themselves. It’s important to create a balance between recognizing those who have achieved success and providing entertainment for guests. Consider adding some features such as music, drama, or comedy acts, depending on what suits your organization best.

Now that you’ve got all of the details in place, it’s time to finalize your script and get ready for your award ceremony! Make sure you go over it several times before the big day so you can iron out any issues or typos that may arise. With a well-planned script ready, your event should run smoothly, and everyone will have an enjoyable experience!

Venue Set Up

Once the script is finalized, it’s time to prepare the venue for the award ceremony. This involves setting up seating arrangements, decorations, and any other necessary items. It’s important to make sure everyone has a comfortable place to sit and that the decorations look inviting and in keeping with your organization’s brand. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure enough refreshments are available throughout the event.

To ensure everything goes smoothly on the day of the event, assign someone responsible for overseeing all of the venue setup tasks. This person should double-check that everything is in place before guests arrive and be available throughout the event in case any issues arise. It’s also a good idea to plan for any potential problems by having extra supplies at hand, just in case.

Once all of these preparations are complete, you’re ready for your award ceremony! With a well-thought-out script and a properly prepared venue, your guests will feel welcomed and entertained during their time at your event. Make sure to thank everyone involved in making it possible; after all, an award ceremony only works if everyone involved does their part!

Program Content

Now that the venue has been set up, it’s time to focus on what will be included in the program content of the award ceremony. The script should include an introduction of your organization and a brief overview of why you are hosting the event. It’s also important to recognize any special guests or honorees who will be present.

Next, you’ll want to provide details about any awards that are being handed out. This could include a description of the criteria for each award, as well as biographical information about each recipient. If you’re awarding multiple prizes, make sure you have enough time allotted for each award presentation so that all recipients get their due recognition.

Finally, it’s important to close out your event with a few words of thanks and appreciation for everyone involved. Make sure everyone knows how much your organization values their contributions and hard work by highlighting specific achievements or moments during the ceremony. When guests leave feeling appreciated and inspired, they’ll remember your event long after it ends and will be eager to come back next year!

Inviting Guests And Speakers

At this stage, it’s time to extend invitations to those who need to be present at the award ceremony. Invitees should include any special guests or honorees, as well as any speakers who will give presentations or remarks. You’ll want to make sure these individuals are aware of the event specifics, such as the date, time, and location.

It’s also important to consider inviting members of the media to cover the event. This may help increase visibility for your organization and help spread the word about your mission and goals. Be sure to provide them with all relevant information in a timely manner so that they have enough time to plan their coverage accordingly.

Finally, you’ll want to reach out to those in your organization who will be responsible for setting up the venue and coordinating other logistics for the event. Having a plan in place ahead of time is key for ensuring that everything goes smoothly on the day of the ceremony. Make sure everyone involved knows what they should be doing and when they should do it!

Emcee Instructions

Once you’ve invited all the necessary guests and speakers, you’ll need to assign someone to serve as an emcee for the ceremony. It’s important to provide thorough instructions for the person who will be in charge of introducing presenters, keeping track of time, and leading the audience through the event.

Begin by giving them a detailed rundown of the event’s agenda. This should include information such as the order in which speakers will appear and any remarks they plan to make. You’ll also want to provide specific cues on when they should introduce each speaker, such as clapping or playing a particular song.

The emcee should also be given notes on how to interact with the audience throughout the ceremony. Make sure they know how to encourage active participation from attendees and keep everyone engaged in what is happening on stage. Additionally, they should understand their role in conveying your organization’s message during their interactions with those in attendance.

It’s essential that your emcee is well-prepared before taking center stage. Be sure to review these instructions with them prior to the award ceremony so that everything goes off without a hitch!

Awards Presentation

Now that all the introductions have been made and the emcee is well-prepared, it’s time to move on to the awards presentation. This part of the ceremony is a great opportunity to recognize individuals or groups who have made significant contributions to your organization.

Start by having the emcee explain why each award recipient is being honored and what they have done to deserve recognition. Be sure to include any remarks from members of your organization about why their work has been so impactful. This will help create a more meaningful moment for everyone involved.

As you present each award, give a short speech that celebrates the accomplishments of the recipient and acknowledges their efforts. Allow them time to say a few words before moving on to the next person or group. If possible, include photos or videos that illustrate their achievements during this part of the ceremony as well.

Encourage audience applause and thank everyone for taking part in this special event. Make sure that you take a few moments at the end of the ceremony to thank all of your guests, speakers, and award recipients once again for helping make this occasion memorable!

Music And Lighting

Music and lighting play an important role in any award ceremony. The right music can set the tone and add to the overall atmosphere of the event. Lighting, on the other hand, helps create a focal point in each room and can be used to draw attention to different elements during your ceremony.

When selecting music for your event, consider what kind of mood you want to create. Do you want something upbeat or calming? Something traditional or modern? Make sure to pick songs that fit with the theme of your ceremony and reflect the accomplishments you are celebrating.

Lighting is also key to creating a memorable experience for your guests. Consider adding spotlights or up-lighting around the stage area for award presentations, or using color-changing lights for added effect. These techniques will help make your ceremony feel more professional and engaging for everyone in attendance.

No matter what type of music or lighting you select, remember that it should enhance – not overpower – the moment. When done correctly, both can be used to emphasize special moments throughout your event and create an atmosphere that celebrates success!

Timing Considerations

When planning an award ceremony, timing is a key factor to consider. It’s important to ensure that each element of your event flows smoothly and that you don’t run out of time before everyone has been recognized. Here are some tips when it comes to timing:

First, plan the order of events carefully. Schedule time for each award presentation, speeches, and any other activities. This will help you stay on track throughout the event. Consider assigning someone to keep an eye on the clock so they can alert you if you’re running behind schedule.

Second, allow ample time for questions or remarks from recipients after their awards have been presented. You want them to be able to share their thoughts with the audience without feeling rushed or pressured. Finally, be sure to leave extra time at the end of your program in case it runs longer than expected or something unexpected happens.

In summary, paying attention to timing before and during your event will help keep everything running smoothly and ensure everyone is properly recognized for their achievements.

Pre-Recorded Video Clips Or Photos

Another important element to include in your award ceremony is pre-recorded video clips or photos of each recipient. This can be a great way to add a personal touch and make the event more memorable.

When using this idea, it’s important to plan ahead and allow enough time for the videos or photos to be created before the event. Additionally, you’ll need to figure out how the videos will be displayed during the ceremony. Will they be projected on a screen? Or will you have someone manually show them one by one?

Either way, make sure that you give yourself plenty of time to test out any technical aspects of your plan prior to the event. This will help ensure that everything runs smoothly when it comes time for the awards presentation.

Additionally, if there are any long-distance recipients who won’t be able to attend in person, having their video clip or photo shown during the ceremony can help make them feel included and appreciated despite their absence.

After Party Ideas

To cap off the award ceremony in style, why not consider planning an after-party? This can be a great way to give the recipients and their guests a chance to celebrate their accomplishments and have fun.

When organizing an after party, you’ll want to think about what kind of atmosphere you’d like to create. Do you want it to be more formal or laid-back? Would it make sense to include food and drinks? Or would you prefer for everyone to just mingle and chat?

The decorations are also something to consider. You could go with something simple like balloons and streamers, or add some extra pizzazz with custom banners or light displays. These details will help create a festive atmosphere that will make the event truly memorable for your guests.

Once you’ve worked out all of these details, all that’s left is for your recipients to enjoy their well-deserved recognition—and have a great time doing it!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should i budget for the event.

When budgeting for an event, it’s important to consider the scope of the event and what you’ll need to make it successful. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how much you should budget for an event, but there are certain factors that can help guide your decision.

First and foremost, think about your end goal. What do you want to achieve out of this event? Depending on the scope of the outcome you’re hoping for, your budget may vary. For example, if you’re looking for a more elaborate setup with high-end decorations and catering services, that will naturally require more resources than an intimate gathering with fewer decorations and simpler snacks.

You’ll also need to think about any additional costs associated with the event. Will there be a fee for renting out a space or any other equipment? Do you need to hire performers or speakers? All of these expenses should be accounted for in order to ensure that your budget is adequate. Remember that some things may be more expensive than expected; having a bit of extra money in the budget can help cover unexpected costs.

In determining how much money should be allocated towards the event, it’s important to remember that no two events are alike. Consider all the components involved and determine what would best suit the occasion while staying within a reasonable budget. With careful planning and thoughtful consideration of all aspects involved, you’ll be able to create an enjoyable experience without breaking the bank.

What Type Of Awards Should I Present?

Deciding what type of awards to present is an essential part of planning an award ceremony. There are many different types of awards that can be given out, ranging from certificates and trophies to plaques and medals. It is important to choose the right type of award so it will be meaningful and appreciated by the recipient.

When selecting the types of awards, it’s important to consider the occasion, budget, and audience. For example, if it’s a corporate event with a large budget, a nice trophy or plaque might be appropriate. On the other hand, if it’s a school event with a limited budget, certificates may be more suitable. Additionally, you should tailor the awards according to your audience; for instance, things like medals or unique gifts might make sense for younger recipients while elegant crystal pieces may be preferred by older awardees.

It’s also important to think about how many awards you plan on giving out. Depending on how many people you plan on honoring during the ceremony, you may need multiple variations of each award type so everyone receives something special and unique. You can customize awards as well by adding logos or special messages that commemorate their achievement. It is these details that will make your award ceremony memorable and successful!

What Are Some Good Ways To Engage The Audience?

Engaging the audience is an important part of putting on a successful award ceremony. There are several things you can do to make sure your guests are entertained and involved in the event. One great way to get people involved is to have them vote on different awards or categories. This allows them to feel like they have some control over the outcome and makes the ceremony more fun for everyone.

You can also encourage participation by having people give short speeches, stories, or jokes about the winners. This will help keep people engaged and interested in what’s happening on stage. Additionally, if you have a big enough venue, you could even try hosting a game or two that involves audience members competing against each other for prizes related to the event.

Finally, music can be used as a powerful tool for engaging your audience. Consider playing some songs from popular artists who are relevant to the occasion and encouraging everyone to sing along or dance together as a group. This will create an atmosphere of unity and entertainment that will make your award ceremony unforgettable for all those involved!

How Do I Ensure The Event Runs Smoothly?

Ensuring an event runs smoothly is a priority for any organizer. It’s important to plan ahead and consider every detail for a successful outcome. There are several steps that can be taken to make sure the ceremony goes as planned.

First off, it’s beneficial to create a timeline and checklist of all the tasks that need to be completed. This will help to keep track of all the necessary details, such as setting up chairs and audio equipment, providing refreshments, or printing out programs. It’s also important to involve volunteers or staff in the process so that everyone knows what needs to be done and when.

Another way to make sure things run smoothly is to have a rehearsal before the event starts. This will help ensure that everyone involved – from speakers and performers, to technical people – knows their roles and how they should interact during the ceremony. Allowing time for a dress rehearsal will also give participants an opportunity to work out any kinks before showtime.

Finally, it’s essential to have someone who can act as coordinator on the day of the event. They should be in charge of checking that everything has been set up correctly, making sure all audio equipment is working properly, and overseeing any last-minute changes that may arise due to unforeseen circumstances. Having someone with good project management skills in this role will help ensure that the ceremony runs according to plan without any unexpected hiccups or delays.

What Do I Need To Consider When Selecting A Venue?

Selecting the right venue for an event is a crucial part of the planning process. It can mean the difference between a successful event and one that falls flat. When selecting a venue, there are several considerations to keep in mind.

First, you’ll want to ensure the venue is large enough to accommodate your guests. If you’re expecting a large crowd, it’s important to make sure the space will be able to comfortably hold everyone who will be attending. Additionally, you need to think about how accessible the venue is; if it’s not easily reached by public transport or doesn’t have plenty of parking available, this could cause problems on the day.

Next, consider any additional features that may be needed such as catering services or audio-visual equipment. You don’t want to be caught short when it comes time for the event so make sure that all necessary amenities are available at the chosen venue. Finally, take into account any restrictions on noise levels or other regulations which may apply at different venues; these need to be taken into consideration before making your final decision.

When selecting a venue for an event, it’s important to ensure that it meets all of your needs from size and accessibility through to additional amenities and regulations. Taking each of these factors into account beforehand will help guarantee that your award ceremony runs smoothly and successfully on the day.

To ensure that your award ceremony is a success, it’s important to take into account several aspects. Firstly, you need to consider your budget and decide how much you can afford for the event. Secondly, think about what type of awards you want to present and how best to engage the audience during the ceremony. Lastly, selecting an appropriate venue is key in ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Once all these elements are covered, you’ll be ready to host a successful award ceremony! With careful planning and attention to detail, you’ll be able to throw an event that everyone will remember fondly.

At the end of the day, it’s all about creating a memorable experience for everyone involved. So go ahead and create an amazing day that celebrates the people or organizations who deserve recognition – they won’t forget it!

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• August 3, 2023

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Chapter 15: how to emcee an event, introduce speakers, and present awards.

You have been accepted as a leader in your company or your community. You have been asked to serve as a program chair for a dinner or master of ceremonies (otherwise known as MC, or emcee) for a more lavish event. It's quite an honor. It means you are known by the audience and respected by the people putting the event together. If you do it well, you are admired anew and you grow in stature within your company and with all those in attendance.

Your First Responsibility - To Open the Event

Your first responsibility is, of course, to open the event, to welcome everyone. Usually you will do this from a platform or a stage. How you do it creates the climate for the meeting. You either lift the audience and build anticipation, or you bore them and create apathy. As such, you are the catalyst. You carry the audience on your shoulders. At this point, they are a clean slate. You are the artist who determines what is painted there.

Many years ago, there was a great speaker named Percy Whiting. He would always greet the audience by asking in a booming, microphone-aided voice, "Can you hear me in the back over there?" while pointing to the far right corner. A few brave members of the audience in that corner would shout back, "Yes, we can hear you!"

Percy would then turn and gesture to the far left corner while booming, "Can you hear me in the back over there?" The answer would come back, "Yes we can!" Then Percy would say at the same high volume level and with his arms outstretched, "Well, then, let's begin!"

You Are the Focal Point

Here's what Percy Whiting accomplished by opening in that way:

He became the focal point. All side conversations ceased. He got everyone's attention and brought the group to order.

He achieved audience interaction. Members of the audience actually spoke out loud. Amazing!

He created excitement. The anticipation level started off on a high.

That was what he wanted to accomplish. That was his purpose. Yet it all seemed so natural as far as the audience was concerned. It was fun, and it stirred everyone to attention.

Identify Key People in the Group

In the crowd, of course, will be significant people within your organization. They need to be recognized for any number of reasons - if nothing else, they have marquee value with the audience, and their noted attendance will lend prestige to the event. Let's use an example. We'll assume that you are the program chairman for a fund-raising event for your local YMCA. There are seven hundred people present. Once you have opened the session and welcomed those in attendance, you need to give ample recognition to the officers, the directors, and the people who were responsible for putting the event together.

Do it individually for the key people. Decide with them beforehand if they will stand when their names are mentioned. Make sure you know how to pronounce their names. If you muff an important name, you're a dead man - or woman. And it feels bad, too. If there is a difficult name, ask its owner how it's pronounced. Then say it back to them at least three times. Then write it phonetically in your notes. Then say it five times to yourself before your moment of truth.

Provide the Common Bond

Next, tell the audience "why we are all here." This critical opening statement tells the crowd why your prominent panel of speakers is taking the time to be present and offers a connecting common thread that brings the speakers and the entire audience together. You need to find this thread, state it, and connect everyone.

An Example of an Opening

We are here tonight because the "Y" is, in some way, important to each of us. Certainly many of us use the Y regularly as an adult fitness facility. And it's the best and most affordable one in town. But that's not where the great Y legacy comes from. It comes from what it has done for kids. Probably 75 percent of you folks in this room can remember a time when you were a kid and the Y made a positive difference in your life. And though the Y has programs for every age group, kids are what we are all about. The Y has no equal for providing programs for the development of kids from toddlers through the teen years.

I'd like to share a quote about kids from one of our great presidents, Theodore Roosevelt. He said: "Every kid has inside him an aching void for excitement. If we don't fill it with something that is exciting, interesting, and good for him, he will fill it with something that is exciting, interesting, and which isn't good for him." The Y has been supplying that excitement in a way that's good for kids since it began in 1850. But it can't do it without the help and support of people like you. Thank you for being here.

Why It Works

Now imagine yourself in the audience hearing what you just said. It's pretty good, isn't it? There had to be a beginning. The session had to be opened. The audience needed to be connected to one another and to the event. And you just did it. You've given the event a common denominator and a perspective. Everyone present is now "tuned in."

The very next thing you should do is give the audience an overview of the agenda. Tell them what to expect. Include an indication of how long the program will be. Now your listeners are comfortable. They know the parameters. They will settle in.

Your Second Responsibility - To Introduce the Speakers

The next step is to get on with the program. Usually that means you introduce the first speaker. Is there a right way to introduce a speaker? You bet there is, and it begins with an understanding of your responsibility as the go-between, the connecter of the audience to the speaker.

It's similar to when you're hosting a party at your home and you have guests who don't know one another. You feel an obligation to introduce them, to tell each of them something about the other, so that they will discover areas of common interest. You want to connect them so that they can interact better. Once you have accomplished that, the party becomes lively, the guests will talk more freely.

The same thing holds for the talk of introduction, though you should go into a bit more detail, since the dialogue that takes place at a party will be missing.

The word "introduce" comes from the Latin words intro , which means inside, and ducerem which means to lead. When we introduce a speaker properly, we lead the audience inside the speaker's world so that the audience is intrigued by the topic, impressed by the speaker's accomplishments, and excited to be present.

How to Organize an Introduction

Is there a simple way to organize such a talk? Of course there is. We call it the TEAS format. It was created by Charlie Wend, a cofounder of Communisync, and has helped thousands of "introducers" perform this function flawlessly.

Here's how it works:

T � Title of the speaker's talk; why it's important to this audience.

E �Experience and Educational background of the speaker

A �Anecdote about the speaker that:

Reveals a human interest dimension of the speaker and / or

Dramatizes the importance of the speaker's subject

S �Speaker's name

Try to hold the speaker's name until last, even when the audience knows who the speaker is. It keeps the introduction cleaner and adds a sense of drama and a lift to the end of your intro.

To do this exceptionally, your first job is to interview the speaker and gather the necessary background information. You may have to work harder to get the anecdote. Sometimes the speaker is shy or "can't think of one." In that case, ask him or her for the name of a friend and phone that person to get the anecdote. Even if you encounter roadblocks, persist. It's worth it.

A Simple Luncheon Intro

J. Walter Thompson (JWT) was hosting a luncheon for the Ford Motor Company, its biggest account, to celebrate a new advertising campaign.

The luncheon would take place in the JWT executive dining area. About seventy people would be present, half Ford people, half JWT.

The JWT management supervisor, Glen Fortinberry, wanted the event to be special. He wanted a speaker who would appeal to this sports-oriented audience. So he arranged for Frank Gifford, the former all-pro Giants flankerback, to be a speaker. He also asked Charlie Wend to introduce Frank.

Gathering Information

The first thing Charlie did was to call the New York Giants' office. He talked to Ray Walsh, the general manager, and told him that he was going to introduce Frank and that he wanted to tell the story of the great catch Frank made against the Steelers toward the end of his career, at Yankee Stadium.

Ray Walsh said, "I'll never forget that catch. We [the Giants] were in the race for the Eastern Divisional Championship of the NFL. We were tied. We had to beat the Steelers to get to the championship game. We were in the fourth quarter. It was third down with fourteen yards to go for a first. We were on our own forty-yard line. The quarterback was Y. A. Tittle. Gifford lined up left and ran a crossing pattern.

"Joe Walton, the tight end, was supposed to clear the area for Frank but was held up at the line of scrimmage. So Frank ran his pattern with two defenders on him. Y. A. was being rushed hard, but he held the ball as long as he could. He finally threw it out of desperation, and he threw it long. There was no way Frank could get to it ... but he did. He dove, caught it with his fingertips, and tucked it in as he rolled on the ground. It was a first down. We went on to score, and we won the Divisional Championship. Frank's catch was the turning point."

Charlie took notes and was overjoyed because he knew he had a good anecdote! He also had prepared the other parts of the TEAS format.

No Secrets: Tell the Speaker What You'll Say

On the day of the luncheon, Charlie met with Frank Gifford and told him what he was going to say while introducing him. Not a bad idea. There's nothing worse than spouting some facts in your introduction and then having the speaker walk to the lectern and disclaim the truth of what you just said.

Let's look at the format for the talk of introduction as it applied to Charlie's intro of Frank Gifford. It follows the TEAS plan.

Topic: "What it means to be a professional"

Charlie stated why that topic was important to this audience of Ford people: "Skill and professionalism separate the great ones from the not-so-greats in professional football; the same is true when creating great Ford advertising."

Experience and Education: Charlie provided facts about Gifford's professional background:

Graduate of USC, where he was All-American

NFL career 1952 to 1964

Starred on both offense and defense during 1953 season

All-NFL four years

Seven Pro Bowls

Pro Bowl selection in three different positions, as defensive back, halfback, and flanker

Original team of broadcasters on Monday Night Football

Covered the Olympics and other special events for ABC

Anecdote: Charlie told the story of Frank's catch against the Steelers. He made the point that the catch represented the epitome of professionalism.

Speaker's Name: Charlie simply said, "Ladies and gentlemen, I am happy to present our speaker today . . . (pause) . . . Frank Gifford."

Charlie had a little rubber football with him on the lectern, and as Frank walked to the lectern, Charlie tossed him the little football, which Frank caught and tossed back to him. Nice touch. Luckily, Frank caught the little football.

Frank Gifford's Transition

Frank's opening remarks went something like this: "Thank you, Charlie, for the nice introduction. Actually, I'm not the one who deserves the credit for that play. Y. A. held his ground back there, looking death in the eye as two defensive linemen roared at him. After he threw the ball, he was almost annihilated by those tacklers. Any other quarterback would have thrown the ball away to avoid being hit so hard, and I wouldn't have had the chance to catch it.

"After the play, I congratulated Y. A. for holding the ball that long and then getting it to me. And he said, ‘I wish I had thrown it to Del Shofner [a faster receiver] instead of you, Frank. Del would have been wide open, five yards in front of those defenders. It would have been an easy play, and I wouldn't have been hit by those linemen.'"

A Great Introduction Is Enjoyed By All

That was Frank's transition into his talk. He was so self-effacing the audience loved him before he even started his prepared remarks. That's what a good anecdote can do for a speaker. It provides an opportunity for the speaker to gracefully transition from the introduction into his talk. But it's not just the speaker who benefits, the audience does, too. The entire affair rises to a new level if the introductions are done well.

After the luncheon was over, Frank sought Charlie out, thanked him again, and said, "Would you follow me around and introduce me whenever I speak?"

The Key, Of Course, Is the Anecdote

If you can get a good anecdote, the speaker is "launched" with the audience. Charlie once introduced Ted Sorensen, a former speechwriter for President Kennedy, at one of those JWT events. Sorensen was a brilliant man who looked rather studious. In the introduction, Charlie said, (deliberately holding Ted's name until the end of the intro):

"Last week this man pitched a shut out and knocked in the winning run for his team in a slow pitch softball game in Central Park. And even after those heroics, he was much more elated by the team victory than by his own contributions. It shows what a team player this man is."

Notice how the story humanized Ted Sorensen. The audience could identify with him just a little bit more.

Sometimes it's difficult to get the necessary information, try though we might. We think we can get the material on the spot, and so we let it go until we have nowhere to turn for help. But we shouldn't excuse ourselves. Remember, a speaker cannot be as effective with a weak introduction. He cannot do it alone. You are there for a purpose. You are there to help make the event more meaningful, more enjoyable, than it could be without you.

Sometimes the Setting Is Difficult

For many years I lived with my wife and family in Old Greenwich, Connecticut. One day in May, the organizer of the local Memorial Day parade asked me:

"Kevin, would you be willing to serve as the grand marshal of the parade? If you say ‘yes,' here's what's involved:

"You would be part of the great parade, riding in the elevated back seat of the grand marshal's car as the parade weaves its way through town. Alongside of you would be our guest celebrity and featured speaker, Fred Furmark (not his real name), of TV fame. The parade will start at Todd's Point and work its way all the way down Sound Beach Avenue, ending at Memorial Rock.

"You and Fred will wave to the crowd during this journey. They will line the streets on both sides and be hanging off the train trestle bridge as you go under it. At Memorial Rock in Binney Park, you will introduce Fred. He will give his Memorial Day talk, and the parade will be over."

The whole thing sounded exciting to me, so I said, "Sure. I'll do it."

I knew how to do an introduction. It meant I'd have to get some information about the speaker, but I could get that from him as we inched our way along in the parade.

The Memorial Day Parade

Memorial Day came, and it wasn't long before I found myself in the back of the car with Fred Furmark on Shore Road in Old Greenwich, behind marching bands, baton twirlers, Veterans of American Wars, American Legion members, Girl Scouts, Daughters of the American Revolution, the Fire Department, local officials, and just about any other organized group that wanted to walk or march from Todd's Point to Memorial Rock.

Fred and I were in the middle of all that. I told him I would be introducing him and asked him to tell me about his background. He said, "I've lived in this town for twenty years and they all know me here."

We were sitting high in the grand marshal's car, waving to the left, to the right, overhead. Wherever there were people waving, we waved back. It was fun. But I had a job to do. I needed information from my fellow "waver," and I was a little bit nervous about whether I was going to get it.

Interviewing the Speaker

So I said, "Fred, what is the topic of the talk you are going to give?"

He waved to the people standing in front of Sterling Watts's hardware store, and said, "I'm going to talk about patriotism."

I said: "I need a title for your talk."

Fred said, "How about ‘What freedom means today'?"

I said, "I like it if you do."

At this point someone from the crowd yelled, "How are you doing, Fred?"

Fred answered, "I'm doing fine. I love being here with all of you."

We returned to our dialogue, still smiling, still waving. I said, "Could you tell me something about your background, your schooling?"

Fred said, "Why do you want to know about that?"

So I said, "I have to introduce you. I have to tell the people about you."

Fred said, "They all know me. I've lived in this town for twenty years."

I said, "Fred, please help me. I've got to introduce you, and I need some info on you. Would you help me?"

Little by little, Fred answered my questions and gave me what I needed. He never missed a wave. He smiled indefatigably. And a lot of the people did know him. I was really impressed with this fine man, but I sure struggled in getting enough information. I've changed a few details, but here is the outline of my introduction:

Topic: "What freedom means today"

Experience and education:

Graduated from Fordham University

Worked for his father as a law clerk for two years

Went into broadcasting. Played Batman on radio for ten years

Hosted Deal and Cash In

Hosted Winner Gets All

Hosted Make a Million

Has hosted The Truth Will Set You Free for the last eight years

Is considered the first game-show superstar

Has had more exposure on daytime TV than any other TV personality

Anecdote: "Fred is a family man, with five children, four girls and a boy. Despite his fame and the demands on his time, the job he loves the most is that of superintendent of a Sunday school in our town of Greenwich. His deeply religious core shows itself when he bids adieu to both his Sunday school class and to the participants who perform on his show by saying, ‘Good-bye, and may God be with you.'"

Speaker's Name: "Ladies and gentlemen, our celebrity Memorial Day speaker . . . (pause) . . . Fred Furmark."

Always announce the name with a rise of intonation and a burst of volume. The speaker's name is the culmination of your talk. If you have held the name until the end, the speaker will rise and walk toward you with outstretched hand as the audience applauds.

Keep It Short, Then Step Out of the Spotlight

You might wonder how long the talk of introduction should be. The answer is - it should be short. Not longer than sixty seconds. Your job is to sell the speaker to the audience, enhance his or her stature, tickle the audience's fancy, build their anticipation, and excite them about the speaker. All of that, but no more, in sixty seconds.

You are not the speaker. Don't be confused by that. You are there to prepare the way for the speaker, not compete with him or her. And, for heaven's sake, don't show off your knowledge about the speaker's subject. Here is an old speaker's lament:

Nothing makes me madder Than when the introducer's patter Is my subject matter

Your Third Responsibility - Presenting Awards

If you are program chair inside your company or organization, you will either present awards or direct others to do so. This is a special time. The award winners love it. The audience loves it. There are two scenarios to be dealt with; one is when you have a series of awards or acknowledgments, and the other is when you are presenting the coveted top awards.

Examples of a Series of Awards

Members of a team who worked together

People who reached new sales "highs"

Top producers in different categories

People who helped make an event successful

Those who made quota

Extraordinary accomplishment

When you are delivering an award, make sure you clearly state what the accomplishment was. Dramatize it. Make it sound important. Be enthusiastic. Be happy. Be upbeat. Be impressed.

Hold the name until last. Announce it with gusto. Smile at each recipient. Shake their hands. Show how delighted you are. Remember that your speech - what you say and how you say it - is a massive part of the award. You create the aura. You create the magnitude. You create the sense of triumph. If you do it well, the award winners will revel in their moment. Potential recipients will be motivated to strive for the same recognition in the future. The audience will be impressed. The event will be a success. And you will be responsible for that success.

Make Sure You Pronounce the Names Correctly

The best way to sidestep this common error is to practice pronouncing the names. The best time to botch a name is in private. There are no penalty points for that, but if you do it out loud to the audience, that's the one thing they will remember - and they will think you're a jerk. That's not fair, but that's the way it is. As Dale Carnegie once said, "Remember, a man's name is, to him, the sweetest and most important sound in any language."

Don't ever lose sight of the fact that these people are being singled out for recognition. It's a marvelous moment, each time - for them. If you are bored with it, or it comes off as dull or perfunctory, you have failed. You lose personal stature with all those present. So, keep your enthusiasm at a high level from beginning to end, no matter how long and drawn-out the ceremony may become. Even if it sometimes seems to you that you are going on forever, remember that it is the first time and the only time for each person being recognized.

The Coveted Top Awards

Ideally there should be but one of these, just as there is only one Congressional Medal of Honor. But it's easy to make a case for two. Is there an absolute limit to how many top awards there can be? Yes. The outside limit is three. Beyond that, there is no exclusivity. The value is tarnished.

In many companies, the top award gets its name from some event in the company's history. Let me give you an example. At Communisync, the top honor you can receive is the Jack Sloan Broken Pick Award.

The Story Behind the Broken Pick Award

Jack Sloan joined Communisync as a salesman and worked for the company for eight years. He was marvelously successful because he worked hard and he worked smart. The vice president of sales, Ted Fuller, was so impressed with his work ethic that he used Jack as an example at one of our sales meetings saying, "You never have to wonder where Jack is. If you can't find him in the office, it's because he's at a client somewhere, breaking his pick (as in digging a hole with a pickax), trying to make a sale."

And so was born the Broken Pick Award. It goes to the person who best demonstrates that they "went the extra mile," "broke their pick," to make the sale. The award, given once a year, is a plaque with the broken pickax symbol on it. It's the apex, the epitome of recognition. You might think a broken pick isn't too glamorous. But that's where tradition and company culture come in.

When presenting a coveted top award, do so with much excitement and joy. Show that you are thrilled to be a part of this great moment and to be sharing it with everyone in the room. Follow these five simple steps:

Tell the story and the philosophy of the award.

Lay out the success record and accomplishments of the recipient.

Explain how the accomplishments demonstrate the philosophy.

Hold the name until last even though they know who it is.

Say the name with gusto.

Key Learnings for How to Emcee a Meeting, Introduce a Speaker, and Present Awards

Consider yourself honored if you are asked to be a program chair. It's a showcase for you. It will do more for your stature and visibility in your company than six months of normal work.

Use the TEAS formula when introducing a speaker. It's simple and it works. The introduction will be livelier and the speaker better launched.

Make sure you get a good anecdote; it makes your introduction special. It also sets up the speaker, and the audience loves it.

Hold the name for last when you introduce a speaker or present an award. It helps build anticipation. The audience will applaud more enthusiastically.

Punch the name with gusto when you announce the speaker or the award winner's name.

Use the person's name ten or fifteen times in the course of the introduction. This strips all drama from the ending.

Talk too long. You are the preface, not the book.

Try to steal the show by being a comedian or by seeking undue attention. Not your job. There's a place in heaven for a good emcee. Most comedians never get there.

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Sample tribute to a special volunteer

The sample tribute below has the elements of a classic speech honoring someone. It follows a standard pattern:

•     Welcome to guests and acknowledgement of honoree
•     A story about the honoree that only you know
•     Qualities about the honoree that everybody knows
•     Comments that describe the reason for the tribute
•     A closing that congratulates the honoree.

When achievements are being recognized with a speech, the same rules apply as with any public speaking.  You must plan your remarks, think about engaging your audience and practice.

The sample tribute on this page gives special recognition to someone who is an exceptional volunteer. All of the references in the tribute are fictional but the tribute and annotations will give you a guide in developing your own special speech or written citation.

A word of caution is in order. Once you write your speech, outline some notes and practice so that you are familiar with the material. Do your audience a favor: don’t read. You want your personality and style to come through. Besides, if you are just going to read, you might as well print out your remarks and let your audience read it themselves.

A sample tribute to John Smith, a special volunteer

Examples of other tributes can be found on the graduation pages of university websites where almost every graduation ceremony features the presentation of special awards or honorary degrees.  Although these are written tributes that are usually read (something you will not do), the texts offer some good examples of ways to work in the merits of the honorees along with interesting details of their lives.

A great speech honoring volunteers comes from non other than the Great Communicator, Ronald Reagan,  who spoke about senior citizen volunteers and their impact on society.

  Celebration Speeches  The perfect tribute   Tribute to a special volunteer    Checklist for speaker s Conquer your fear Yo ur retirement speech     Honoring a retiree   Toast tips

Helping you shine when the spotlight is on you.

Business Presentations in Action

Presenting or accepting an award, learning objectives.

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

• Discuss the purpose of an award.
• Describe the process of presenting an award.
• Describe the process of accepting an award.

When presenting an award, the key is to focus attention on the honor and the person receiving it—not on yourself. You may have been part of the committee that chose the winner, or involved in some other way, but your role should never upstage that of the person being honored.

You can focus the attention on the recipient in two ways: surprise or direct acknowledgement. In the surprise approach, you mention characteristics of the person receiving the award without initially mentioning their name—allowing the audience to start guessing who it might be. You may mention a list of accomplishments, or perhaps a positive story. With the surprise approach, you share the information that is sure to reveal the recipient’s identity right before you present the award.

You may prefer, however, a direct acknowledgement of the honoree’s performance or service and simply announce his or her name. The direct acknowledgement approach is typically followed by the reasons for choosing this person to receive the award, or include his or her past accomplishments. This direct strategy may be preferred if the audience is not familiar with the recipient.

Table 15.5 “Presenting an Award” summarizes the process of presenting an award.

Table 15.5 Presenting an Award

If you are the award recipient, be aware that the acceptance of an award often provides a moment of influence on the audience that can serve to advance your position or cause. Use of the limelight is an important skill, and much like any speech or presentation, it requires planning and preparation. You don’t want to be caught speechless, and you want to project a professional presence that corresponds to the award or recognition.

If you know you are being considered for an award, first consider what the award recognizes within your professional community. An award is a symbol of approval, recognition, or distinction that honors the recipient in public. As the recipient, it is your role to convey recognition of that honor with your gracious acceptance.

Perhaps you have seen an awards ceremony on television, where a producer, composer, actor, or musician has received public recognition. Sometimes the acceptance unifies the community and serves as an inspiration to others. Other times the recipient stumbles, talks as fast as they can to list all the people who helped them reach their goal (often forgetting several, which can hurt feelings), or they use the spotlight to address an unrelated issue, like a political protest. They may mumble, and their nervousness may be so obvious that it impacts their credibility. Accepting an award is an honor, an opportunity, and a challenge.

The first step in accepting an award is to say thank you. You can connect with the audience with your heartfelt emotional displays and enthusiasm. Raised arms, clasped hands, and a bow are universal symbols of respect and gratitude. Note that rambunctious displays of emotion such as jumping up and down or large, sweeping gestures are better left for the athletic fields. An award ceremony is a formal event, and your professionalism will be on display for all to see.

Next, you should consider giving credit where credit is due, noting its relevance to your field or community. If you name one person, you have to be sure to not leave anyone out, or you run the risk of hurting feelings and perhaps even making professional enemies. If you confine your credit list to a couple of key people, it is wise to extend the credit beyond the individual mentions by saying something like, “There are so many people who made this possible. Thank you all!” You should link your response to the award organization and your field, industry, or business. Don’t apologize or use terms that can be interpreted as negative. The acceptance of an award is a joyous, uplifting affair, and your role is to maintain and perpetuate that perception.

You may also consider linking your award to a motivational anecdote. A brief, personal story about how a teacher or neighbor in your community motivated you to do better than you thought you could and how you hope this can serve to motivate up-and-coming members to strive for their very best, can often stimulate an audience. Don’t exaggerate or stretch the story. The simple facts speak for themselves and the award serves as a powerful visual aid.

Say “thank you again” as you leave the stage, facilitating the transition to the next part of the ceremony while acknowledging the honor. You may need to take note where previous recipients have exited the stage to proceed without error, or simply return to your seat. Your brief comments combined with a graceful entrance and exit will communicate professionalism. Table 15.6 “Accepting an Award” summarizes the steps we have outlined.

Table 15.6 Accepting an Award

KEY TAKEAWAY

• Who needs to be prepared to present an award in a business and why? Discuss your ideas with the class.
• This can be a fun two-minute oral communication exercise. In the exercise, you will alternate between the role of the award announcer and the recipient. You will be paired up into teams where you will need to create a business or industry award, prepare a brief script and notes on acceptance, and then demonstrate your results for your class. The introduction of the speaker should last no more than thirty seconds and the acceptance should also be completed in less than a minute. If you are at a distance from your class, you may be assigned a particular role that fits your situation. Record your performance and post it in class.
• Find one example of an award acceptance speech that you perceive as particularly effective. Indicate why and share the link. Compare with your classmates.
• Find one example of an award acceptance speech that you perceive as particularly ineffective. Indicate why and share the link. Compare with classmates.
• Communication For Business Success. Authored by : anonymous. Located at : http://2012books.lardbucket.org/books/communication-for-business-success/ . License : CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike

How to introduce a speaker or honoree

by Margot Lester | Dec 20, 2012 | Best Practice

Updated June 2023

There's one sure-fire way to put a damper on an otherwise solid event and that's bad introductions. The worst offender is introductions that a read from a raft of bios that are already printed in the event program. By the third or fourth person, side conversations break out in the audience, audible sighs let out and eyes rolled (hopefully) imperceptibly. And it's not just the audience who suffers. As a speaker, I always feel like the introducer is phoning it in if they just read what's been sent out in the event email and printed in the event program. It doesn't take much to do better. Yet so few do. Don't be one of them. Join the ranks of expert introducers!

4 tips for making introductions

1. share your perspective..

Explain why you're excited this person is being honored or to hear what s/he has to say. Talk about something they've done that's impressed or effected you directly. And when in doubt, ask the person directly. Show your enthusiasm and respect.

2. Quote the speaker/honoree.

I was recently introduced by someone who shared some things I'd written in articles , on this blog and on Twitter about the topic of the day. This was fun way to establish my cred, hint at take-aways, and get the audience ready to go. You can also do this with honorees and speakers who aren't published by asking them for a few key points about themselves, like words to live by, a surprising fact, their most important lesson learned, etc.

3. Set the stage.

Tell us why this speaker/honoree was chosen in your own words and why we should care-- in your own words or through comments of others. Anything but a direct reading from the stock bio. What has this person done to merit this honor or speaking slot? How has s/he earned it? Help the audience get revved up about the value of the session.

This really only works with speaker introductions: If you're not comfortable with the previous ideas, cut to the chase with something like this: "You came to see Becca. I came to see Becca. So, I'm going to turn the mic over to Becca Jones, author of Better Introductions."

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The Role of the Honor Guard in a Veteran Funeral

In the somber yet dignified ceremonies of a veteran’s funeral , the Honor Guard stands as a symbol of respect and gratitude for a life devoted to service. These uniformed service members, representing the unwavering courage and commitment of our military, perform ceremonial duties that resonate deeply with the bereaved families and the community. Their presence is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by the deceased, and the Honor Guard’s precise movements and reverent protocols bring a sense of solace and national pride to the mournful proceedings. As the last tribute to our nation’s heroes, the rituals carried out by the Honor Guard magnify the meaning of the ultimate sacrifice, echoing the profound appreciation of a grateful nation.

For those families who are seeking funeral home in Washington Township, MI , area experiencing the loss of a veteran, the Honor Guard’s role in the funeral service stands as an integral part of the farewell. At Lee-Ellena Funeral Home, families find compassion and comprehensive services catered to honor the memory of their loved one with the utmost respect. From the meticulously folded flag to the somber notes of “Taps” played by a bugler, the Honor Guard’s rituals provide a touching tribute that encapsulates a lifetime of service. The unparalleled dedication of the Honor Guard in performing these sacred duties ensures that the veteran’s final journey is marked with the dignity their service rightfully commands.

Ceremony and Tradition

Each motion, every precise step taken by the Honor Guard, is steeped in military tradition, meant to convey the highest levels of ceremonial honor due at the farewell of a service member. Their time-honored traditions passed down through generations, including the careful folding of the American flag, the presentation to next of kin, and the hauntingly beautiful playing of “Taps,” which resonates as an eternal note of gratitude from a nation in mourning.

Uniformity and Precision

The Honor Guard personifies unity and meticulous discipline, which is evident in their perfectly synchronized movements. This uniformity is more than mere aesthetic; it symbolizes the shared experiences and camaraderie of military life, providing a visual testament to the deceased veteran’s commitment to service and discipline. The collective presence of the unit offers comfort, displaying an unspoken bond that transcends the finality of the funeral service.

Flag Folding Ritual

The ceremonial folding of the flag is a centerpiece of the Honor Guard’s duties. Each fold carries symbolic meaning, representing the principles and values for which the deceased served. The meticulous process culminates with the flag’s presentation, a gesture that encapsulates the nation’s recognition of the veteran’s valor and the family’s sacrifice, a treasured keepsake and a forever reminder of their loved one’s service.

The Bugler’s “Taps”

The plaintive strains of “Taps,” played by a lone bugler, mark the heart-stirring closure to a veteran’s service. Its melancholy melody is a powerful symbol of the final goodbye, signaling the end of the day and the conclusion of a lifetime’s dedication to service. The bugle call, free from complex lyrics, carries a message that transcends words: the indomitable spirit of the military and the poignant acknowledgment of a mission fulfilled.

A Solemn Tribute

Ultimately, the Honor Guard’s presence at a veteran’s funeral is a poignant and solemn tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the individual and a testament to the collective respect and honor deserved by all who serve. This time-honored custom demonstrates the strength of military traditions and provides a comforting symbol that the legacy of the departed will be forever safeguarded by their brothers and sisters in arms. Through their dedication, the Honor Guard ensures that each veteran’s contribution to the country will never be forgotten.

In the moving panorama of a veteran’s final farewell , the Honor Guard stands as a poignant embodiment of honor and remembrance. Their role transcends mere formality; it is a profound gesture that emphasizes the nation’s deep appreciation for the valor and dedication shown by military members. At funeral home in Washington Township, MI, such as Lee-Ellena Funeral Home, families are offered a comforting space where these ceremonial tributes can unfold with the dignity and respect their loved ones deserve. With each crisp fold of the flag, each note of “Taps,” the Honor Guard not only commemorates individual sacrifice but also cements the enduring legacy of all those who have served. To provide you high standard of service, connect with us today .

Nine Staten Island students win Congressional Award, highest U.S. honor for youths

M ay 15—STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis awarded medals to Staten Island students who received the Congressional Award and the Maverick Foundation Scholarship.

The presentation took place on Monday in Malliotakis' Staten Island District Office.

The Congressional Award was established in 1979 and recognizes students for their achievements in volunteerism, character development, physical fitness and exploration. It's the highest honor bestowed upon civilian youth by Congress.

It began as a bipartisan effort in both the United States Senate and the House of Representatives.

The original bill was sponsored by Senator Malcolm Wallop of Wyoming and Congressman James Howard of New Jersey and the legislation was originally signed into law by President Jimmy Carter. Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald J. Trump have each signed continuing legislation.

The Congressional Award provides opportunities for young people to reach their potential by achieving personal goals focused on volunteerism, character development, and fitness.

The program is open to all youth in the United States between the ages of 14 and 24 regardless of ability, circumstance, or socioeconomic status.

Participants earn Bronze, Silver, and Gold Certificates and Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medals. Each level involves setting goals in four program areas; Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/Exploration.

Participants are eligible to register with the award at 13 1/2. Participants are eligible to submit completed rapplications at 14.

The Congressional Award has no minimum grade point average requirements.

It accommodates young people with special needs or disabilities. It's not an award for past accomplishments, but rather honored for setting goals, creating an action plan, and meeting the challenge.

THE MAVERICK FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP

Some of the students recognized received the Maverick Foundation Scholarship, established in 2002 for eighth graders entering high school who accept the challenge of the Congressional Award program.

Scholarship recipients are required to achieve the Congressional Award Gold Medal prior to graduating from high school, which requires them to perform 400 hours of community service, 200 hours of personal development, and 200 hours of physical activity.

MAVERICK FOUNDATION RECIPIENTS:

Cassandra Fitzpatrick — Congressional Award Gold Medal. Freshman at Marist College; Graduated from Moore Catholic High School in 2023

Victoria D'Ovidio — Congressional Award Gold Medal. Senior at St. Joseph Hill Academy

Ryan Leonard — Congressional Award Gold Medal. Junior at Monsignor Farrell High School

Jenna Ruiz — Congressional Award Bronze Medal & Silver Medal. Junior at Staten Island Academy

Logan Kielty — Congressional Award Bronze Medal. Junior at St. Peter's Boys High School

Annie Falcon — Congressional Award Bronze Medal. Sophomore at Moore Catholic High School

Elle Barrera — Congressional Award Bronze Medal. Senior at Gaynor McCowan Expeditionary Learning School

CONGRESSIONAL AWARD RECIPIENTS NOT ASSOCIATED WITH THE MAVERICK FOUNDATION

Youwei Zhen — Congressional Award Gold Medal. Staten Island Technical High School.

Lillianna Cognato — Congressional Award Gold Medal.

(c)2024 Staten Island Advance, N.Y. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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2024 honor thesis presentation schedule.

Join us Monday, May 13th - Wednesday, May 22nd as the Government Department's 2024 cohort of honors students present their finished theses. 

Monday, May 13, 2024​

9:30 - 10:30AM: Jayanth Uppaluri,  "Who Deserves What? Disability Policy and Public Opinion"  – Silsby 215​

11:30 - 12:30PM: Cecile Tobin,  "Certainty Slant in Political Media Content" – Silsby 215​

Tuesday, May 14, 2024​

12:10 - 1:10PM: Rem Katyal,  "Constitutionalizing Tribal Sovereignty: A New Approach to Indian Law's Most Foundational Principle"  – Silsby 215 ​

2:10 – 3:10PM: Sharanya Majumder,  "From Demonization to Self-Promotion: The Persuasive Effects of Russian Propaganda Strategies on Mexican Public Opinion"  – Haldeman 124​

Wednesday, May 15, 2024​

9:00 – 10:00AM: Nikolaos Vichos,  "A House Divided: The Impact of Secessionist Crises on Public Support for Liberal Democratic Norms"  – Silsby 215 ​

1:00 – 2:00PM: Jahnavi Sodhi,  "Securing the Strait: Assessing the Military Capabilities of the Gulf States and the Need for US Intervention to Counter Iran's Threat to Oil Flow"  – Silsby 215 ​

3:15 – 4:15PM: Eleanor Schifino,  "Navigating Artificial Intelligence Regulation: Analyzing Factors in Public Willingness to Trade AI Utility for Safety" - Silsby 029B​

Thursday, May 16, 2024​

2:10 – 3:10PM: Skylar Wiseman,  "A Revolution of Reason: What Political Liberalism Implies for Obergefell v. Hodges, Same-Sex Marriage Jurisprudence, and Marriage Law" - Haldeman 124​

Friday, May 17, 2024​

9:00 - 10:00AM: Eliza Durbin,  "The Effects of U.S. Public Information Campaigns on Social Network Support for Irregular Migration in the Northern Triangle Countries" - Silsby 215​

Monday, May 20, 2024​

9:30 - 10:30AM: Kristabel Konta,  "Balancing Principles and Power: Assessing the Role of the UN Special Procedures and Their Relationship with the Security Council" - Silsby 215​

1:00 - 2:00PM: Brian Zheng,  "Strategic Partisan Attitudes Towards the Construction and Enforcement of Electoral Rules" - Silsby 215​

Tuesday, May 21, 2024​

12:10 - 1:10PM: Riya Ganpati,  "Rehabilitating the Privacy Defense: Expressive Privacy and Freedom of Identity"  – Silsby 215 ​

2:10 – 3:10PM: Eva Bianco,  "Talking About the Bomb: Gendered Language in Nuclear Weapons Policy Discourse"  – Haldeman 124​

Wednesday, May 22, 2024​

9:30 – 10:30AM: Meghana Kopparthi,  "Balancing Criminal Jurisdiction Between Tribes and the Federal Government Over Sexual Violence in Indian Country"  – Silsby 215 ​

3:15 – 4:15PM: Eleanor Sullivan,  "Explaining the Gap: Why Men Support the Use of Military Force More than Women"  – Silsby 029B​

Rory McIlroy receives Wells Fargo trophy via helicopter in ceremony to honor fallen area police officers

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - MAY 12: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland poses with the trophy after the final round of Wells Fargo Championship at Quail Hollow Club on May 12, 2024 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Ben Jared/PGA TOUR via Getty Images)

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Rory McIlroy received the Wells Fargo Championship trophy via helicopter, as part of a ceremony to honor fallen police officers from a local shooting earlier this month. The special moment neatly complemented McIlroy’s special performance, with the tournament also announcing a $125,000 donation to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Foundation in memory of the fallen officers.

McIlroy finished 17 under at Quail Hollow Club for a five-stroke victory over Xander Schauffele, his fourth victory at the Charlotte, North Carolina venue. As he partook in the winner’s festivities of which he has become accustomed (this marked McIlroy’s 26th TOUR title), a helicopter descended and landed on Quail Hollow’s 18th fairway, with Lee Greenwood’s anthemic “God Bless the USA” playing through the speakers. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Chief of Police Johnny Jennings exited the helicopter with the trophy, flanked by the Honor Guard up the fairway and onto the green, and placed the trophy in the center of a wreath featuring yellow and red roses.

The presentation also included a moment of silence in memory of the officers who were shot. Four area officers – Sam Poloche, Joshua Eyer, William “Alden” Elliot and Thomas M. Weeks, Jr. – were shot and killed April 29 while attempting to serve a warrant at a Charlotte-area home. Four additional officers were also shot in the incident.

Weeks had served as a tournament volunteer at the Wells Fargo Championship, as well.

“Because of the incredible commitment that the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has done with the Wells Fargo Championship, and in support of the families of the fallen officers and the remainder of those officers that stand behind the badge, we’re announcing a gift today of $125,000 to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Foundation in support of your officers,” said Kendall Alley, General Chair, Champions for Education.

“Their legacy will forever inspire us to strive for a better tomorrow,” said Quail Hollow Club President Johnny Harris. “Let us carry their memory in our hearts and continue to honor their sacrifice through our actions and deeds.”

Prof. Sarah McCallum Honored with 2024 COH Distinguished Teaching Award

Dr.  Sarah McCallum  is the recipient of the College of Humanities 2024 Distinguished Teaching Award. 

"The department is fortunate indeed to have such a dedicated master teacher among our faculty,” said  Karen Seat, Religious Studies and Classics Department Head. “Few faculty spend as much time as Dr. McCallum outside the classroom with individual students to help them succeed and achieve the learning outcomes in her academically rigorous courses.”

McCallum joined the department in 2017 and she  expertly teaches courses in two different languages—Latin and  Ancient Greek—as well as English-language general education courses in Classics. She has been instrumental in increasing enrollments in both language programs, for which she teaches every level from 101 courses through graduate courses.

“Dr. McCallum has perfected the art of guiding students through complex, unfamiliar concepts from ancient Greek and Roman culture and language, through both clear and beautifully constructed presentation as well as active learning in which students are primed to grapple with the material themselves. While she is definitely a sage, she does not monopolize the  stage; rather she equips students with the tools they need to develop their own mastery of the material,” wrote another faculty nominator.

“Dr. McCallum is an exceptional teacher who shows great empathy toward her students. Her enthusiasm and passion for the study of Latin was contagious, and it inspired me with my studies,” wrote one former student who took four classes with McCallum. “Thanks to her compassionate and attentive teaching style, I pursued advanced Latin levels that I never thought were attainable. From my personal experience, Dr. McCallum is a dedicated professor who strives to provide her students with quality education and learning experiences.”

“Dr. McCallum embodies the qualities that this award aims to honor – she is incredibly passionate about teaching and she works extremely hard to accommodate, support and engage her students,” wrote another student. “Dr. McCallum tirelessly strives to support every student and uses many different methods to make sure that everyone is keeping up and excelling. She recognizes that students learn things in different ways, and isn’t afraid to shake things up to make concepts more understandable or engaging. Her tireless efforts, care and passion have made her the most effective and enjoyable language professor I have ever had.”

“Professor McCallum takes the cake for best professor. If there were two cakes, I’m confident she would take the other one too. Never before have I met an educator as dedicated as her, nor one as inspiring, understanding, innovative, or receptive to her students’ learning needs,” wrote another student. “With her support and enthusiasm, she inspires students to be equally excited about what we’re learning, rather than scared about exams and fearful of being wrong about something. She promotes collaboration and engagement, using group work and class review to reinforce our understanding of content and create a positive learning environment.”

“Throughout my time as a Classics student at three different universities, I have yet to encounter such a unique and effective approach to Latin instruction. She was the first professor I had who provided a tangible model of how to question, challenge and improve upon the way Latin is taught,” wrote a student who completed a master’s degree in Classics. “The successes of Professor McCallum’s teaching are a direct result of her commitment to education and her students. Every detail of each class is carefully thought out and each activity has a purpose directly related to the growth of her students.”

In 2024, Dr. McCallum was promoted to associate professor with tenure.

Sheboygan South High students to honor Hmong veterans, culture with community presentation

Hmong student organization leaders hope people who attend will learn about hmong veterans' contributions to us military and more about the culture..

SHEBOYGAN — The Hmong Student Organization at South High will host its first event to honor Hmong veterans and celebrate Hmong culture and history next week.  

The Hmong Veterans Day Presentation will be held on Hmong-Lao Veterans Day May 14, which Gov. Tony Evers designated in 2021 as a way to honor and recognize the Hmong veterans who contributed to the U.S. military efforts in the Secret War. The CIA recruited Hmong people in neighboring Laos to fight Communist forces during the Vietnam War.  

The presentation will not only honor Hmong veterans but explore other effects of the Secret War, like the impact on Hmong civilians who were displaced and separated from their families as they fled. Some estimates put the number of Hmong people who came to the U.S. from this conflict at the tens to hundreds of thousands.  

This will be the larger context of a play HSO wrote for the presentation, following two families as they flee to the U.S. and adjust to living in a new place.  

Though the play is fictional, HSO co-president and South senior Kelsie Vang said this is a story experienced by many Hmong families.  

Vang said Hmong families may wonder “what could’ve been" if they stayed with their families in Laos. “But they were separated and moved to America. It's such a true story," she said.

Autumn Lee, HSO co-president and South senior, said the play could give the older Hmong generation more visibility, too, by sharing a story that could resemble their own.  

Amanda Xiong, HSO public relations chairperson and South senior, said she wants students at South High to understand what Hmong people experienced during the Secret War.  

“That's not hugely covered in the social studies class,” Xiong said. “From this, I just want them to learn about Hmong culture and how Hmong people came to America, because even though there's a huge Hmong student (population) here, a lot of people still don't really know how they came to the United States and what they contributed to the war.” 

Sheboygan County has the fourth largest population of Hmong people in the state. Hmong people also account for more than 70% of the Asian American population in Sheboygan.  

“I really hope that the South High community and the community as a whole learns about Hmong culture because it is a fascinating culture,” HSO adviser and South special education teacher Randall McAdoo said. “I hope that we are able to continue this tradition.” 

New business opens in El Camino space: New bar and banquet hall takes El Camino's spot on Michigan Avenue in Sheboygan. Here's what to know.

The presentation will feature a Hmong veteran guest speaker, play about the Secret War and more.

Images of Hmong people will be displayed as attendees arrive to the event, some depicting stages of them fleeing to the U.S.

The hour-long presentation will open with an introduction from McAdoo. The presentation guest speaker, Hmong Veteran Shua Yang, who was a First Sargeant in the U.S. Army’s military intelligence division, will follow.

After that, there will be an interactive Hmong language learning portion, a play called “Meet Me Under the Mango Tree” and a dance from the HSO Dance Team.  

Contact HSO adviser to reserve a seat for the Hmong Veteran Presentation.

The Hmong Veterans Day Presentation will be at in the auditorium at South High School, 1240 Washington Ave., from 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. It is open to the public and the South High community. A limited number of seats are available. Contact Randall McAdoo at [email protected] to reserve a seat.

Have a story tip? Contact Alex Garner at 224-374-2332 or [email protected] . Follow her on X (formerly Twitter) at @alexx_garner .

15.7 Presenting or Accepting an Award

Learning objectives.

• Discuss the purpose of an award.
• Describe the process of presenting an award.
• Describe the process of accepting an award.

There is nothing more gratifying than recognition from your peers and colleagues for a job well done. We all strive for acceptance, and recognition is a reflection of belonging, a basic human need. Schutz, W. (1966). The interpersonal underworld . Palo Alto, CA: Science and Behavior Books. In this chapter we will discuss how to present or accept an award tactfully, graciously, and professionally.

First, make sure that you have all the information correct before you get up to speak: the honoree’s correct name and how it is pronounced, the correct title of the award, and the details about the honoree’s accomplishments that you are about to share. The spotlight will be on you, and your accurate delivery will be crucial to the happiness of the occasion.

When presenting an award, the key is to focus attention on the honor and the person receiving it—not on yourself. You may have been part of the committee that chose the winner, or involved in some other way, but your role should never upstage that of the person being honored.

You can focus the attention on the recipient in two ways: surprise or direct acknowledgement. In the surprise approach, you mention characteristics of the person receiving the award without initially mentioning their name—allowing the audience to start guessing who it might be. You may mention a list of accomplishments, or perhaps a positive story. With the surprise approach, you share the information that is sure to reveal the recipient’s identity right before you present the award.

You may prefer, however, a direct acknowledgement of the honoree’s performance or service and simply announce his or her name. The direct acknowledgement approach is typically followed by the reasons for choosing this person to receive the award, or include his or her past accomplishments. This direct strategy may be preferred if the audience is not familiar with the recipient.

Table 15.5 "Presenting an Award" summarizes the process of presenting an award.

Table 15.5 Presenting an Award

If you are the award recipient, be aware that the acceptance of an award often provides a moment of influence on the audience that can serve to advance your position or cause. Use of the limelight is an important skill, and much like any speech or presentation, it requires planning and preparation. You don’t want to be caught speechless, and you want to project a professional presence that corresponds to the award or recognition.

If you know you are being considered for an award, first consider what the award recognizes within your professional community. An award A symbol of approval, recognition, or distinction that honors the recipient in public. is a symbol of approval, recognition, or distinction that honors the recipient in public. As the recipient, it is your role to convey recognition of that honor with your gracious acceptance.

Perhaps you have seen an awards ceremony on television, where a producer, composer, actor, or musician has received public recognition. Sometimes the acceptance unifies the community and serves as an inspiration to others. Other times the recipient stumbles, talks as fast as they can to list all the people who helped them reach their goal (often forgetting several, which can hurt feelings), or they use the spotlight to address an unrelated issue, like a political protest. They may mumble, and their nervousness may be so obvious that it impacts their credibility. Accepting an award is an honor, an opportunity, and a challenge.

The first step in accepting an award is to say thank you. You can connect with the audience with your heartfelt emotional displays and enthusiasm. Raised arms, clasped hands, and a bow are universal symbols of respect and gratitude. Note that rambunctious displays of emotion such as jumping up and down or large, sweeping gestures are better left for the athletic fields. An award ceremony is a formal event, and your professionalism will be on display for all to see.

Next, you should consider giving credit where credit is due, noting its relevance to your field or community. If you name one person, you have to be sure to not leave anyone out, or you run the risk of hurting feelings and perhaps even making professional enemies. If you confine your credit list to a couple of key people, it is wise to extend the credit beyond the individual mentions by saying something like, “There are so many people who made this possible. Thank you all!” You should link your response to the award organization and your field, industry, or business. Don’t apologize or use terms that can be interpreted as negative. The acceptance of an award is a joyous, uplifting affair, and your role is to maintain and perpetuate that perception.

You may also consider linking your award to a motivational anecdote. A brief, personal story about how a teacher or neighbor in your community motivated you to do better than you thought you could and how you hope this can serve to motivate up-and-coming members to strive for their very best, can often stimulate an audience. Don’t exaggerate or stretch the story. The simple facts speak for themselves and the award serves as a powerful visual aid.

Say “thank you again” as you leave the stage, facilitating the transition to the next part of the ceremony while acknowledging the honor. You may need to take note where previous recipients have exited the stage to proceed without error, or simply return to your seat. Your brief comments combined with a graceful entrance and exit will communicate professionalism. Table 15.6 "Accepting an Award" summarizes the steps we have outlined.

Table 15.6 Accepting an Award

Key Takeaway

Awards are public recognitions of success, and tact and grace are required both in presenting and receiving them.

• Who needs to be prepared to present an award in a business and why? Discuss your ideas with the class.
• This can be a fun two-minute oral communication exercise. In the exercise, you will alternate between the role of the award announcer and the recipient. You will be paired up into teams where you will need to create a business or industry award, prepare a brief script and notes on acceptance, and then demonstrate your results for your class. The introduction of the speaker should last no more than thirty seconds and the acceptance should also be completed in less than a minute. If you are at a distance from your class, you may be assigned a particular role that fits your situation. Record your performance and post it in class.
• Find one example of an award acceptance speech that you perceive as particularly effective. Indicate why and share the link. Compare with your classmates.
• Find one example of an award acceptance speech that you perceive as particularly ineffective. Indicate why and share the link. Compare with classmates.