Naval History and Heritage Command
Commemoration Resources
Navy Ships Return to Flying "Union Jack"
Directed in NAVADMIN 039/19 on 21 February 2019, all U.S. Navy ships shall display the union jack beginning at morning colors on Tuesday, 4 June 2019.
Since 31 May 2002, directed by SECNAV Instruction 10520.6, the rattlesnake jack has been used in place of the union jack for the duration of the Global War on Terrorism. The union jack will be reintroduced on Navy ships (with the exception of the oldest commissioned warship in the operational fleet) in coordination with the 77th anniversary of the Battle of Midway.
For more information on the history of the Navy jack, visit The U.S. Navy Jack webpage.
Commemoration Program Support
Commemoration Script
Commemoration Program Templates
Frequently Asked Questions
Battle of Midway Graphics
Speeches
Admiral John Richardson, CNO, Remarks, San Diego―June 5, 2017
Rear Admiral Samuel Cox, U.S. Navy (Ret.), Director, NHHC, Midway Island―June 5, 2017
Admiral Jonathan Greenert, CNO, Remarks, Washington, D.C.―June 4, 2012
Admiral Gary Roughead, CNO, Remarks, Washington, D.C.―June 3, 2011
Navy Office of Community Outreach, Speakers Resource Library
