I have just chanced upon this thread and apart from what one wears to salute the ensign twice a day, what does the ceremony actually signify and do we need to do it, other than because we always have? Does it mark the opening and closing of the working day, is it a gesture of respect to HM who owns the facilities and pays our wages? The ensign is up all day and down at night, so what? Why do we do it and would life stop if we didn't? Discuss please.