What should always be displayed at the time of firing a salute?

• A. The unit crest.
• B. The service branch insignia.
• C. The flag of the United States, or national color.
• D. A memorial wreath.

Answer: (C)

The flag of the United States, or national color, is the symbol that should be displayed during a salute. This ceremony is a formal expression of national respect, so the national colors serve as the focal point of the honor. The unit crest and service branch insignia are identifiers of a unit or branch, not the ceremonial symbol for salutes, and a memorial wreath belongs to remembrance ceremonies rather than a standard firing of a salute. Displaying the national color aligns the act with honoring the nation itself.