SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/cadet-flag-leeward-side

From which side of the flagstaff is the flag raised and lowered?

The leeward (downwind) side.

Start playing free

  1. The windward, or upwind, side
  2. The leeward, or downwind, side ✔
  3. The side facing the commander

Why: CAP requires the leeward side. Two cadets handle the halyards so they do not tangle, while the detail commander keeps the flag off the ground.

Huh, didn't know that: When practical, a raising detail has an experienced person in charge plus two cadets; a fourth may help attach the flag.

The dad joke
Why was the flag so good at sports? It always knew which way the wind was blowing.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: The leeward, or downwind, side. CAP requires the leeward side. Two cadets handle the halyards so they do not tangle, while the detail commander keeps the flag off the ground.

  1. CAPP 60-33, Civil Air Patrol Drill and Ceremonies (Nov 2025), 6.12.2 www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/P_6033_2217FEEE8C89F.pdf
    The flag is always raised and lowered from the leeward side of the flagstaff.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Leadership & CadetsWhat does Reveille signal?Leadership & CadetsWhich ceremony marks the end of the official duty day and pays respect to the flag?Leadership & CadetsIn flag ceremonies, how is the flag raised, and how is it lowered?

That's stuff everyone should know.