The Cross is symbolic of Christianity

Section 3 of Public Law 929—77th Congress as amended by Public Law 107—83rd Congress authorized the use of the church pennant above the national ensign “during church services conducted by naval chaplains at sea.” By long established customs, the phrase “Naval Chaplains” has traditionally been recognized to indicate visiting church dignitaries and chaplains of other services when actually engaged in conducting divine services for Navy personnel afloat. The phrase “at sea” is interpreted for U.S. Navy purposes meaning “on board a Navy ship.” Ships should be fitted with two halyards to the same point of honor at the flagstaff and the gaff; this will permit the display of the church pennant and the ensign simultaneously. If divine services are being conducted, or commence at the time of morning colors, the ensign shall be hoisted to the peak at the pre- scribed time. The church pennant is then hoisted and the ensign dipped just clear of the church pennant. Should divine services be conducted during time of evening colors, the church pennant shall be hauled down and the ensign hoisted to the peak just prior to the time for colors; the ensign is then hauled down upon execution of evening colors. The same rules governing the display of the Christian church pennant also apply to the display of the Jewish worship pennant when Jewish religious services are conducted. 2.87.95(M1) Figure 2-12.—The Cross is symbolic of Christianity. 2-12