What does raising and lowering "Colors" signify?

Raising and lowering "Colors" signifies the raising and lowering of national or organizational flags. This procedure is a significant tradition, particularly in naval and military contexts, representing respect for the nation's flag or the organization's ensign. It serves as a formal recognition of national identity and pride, observed during specific ceremonies such as the change of watch, aboard ships at sea, or during official events.

In naval practices, these actions often occur at designated times, such as sunrise and sunset, when the flag is raised and lowered as a show of respect. This ritual is steeped in history and symbolizes loyalty and honor towards the flag and what it represents, reinforcing the importance of national or organizational allegiance among service members and their vessels.