When the Colors are passing a unit in formation, when does the commander give the command to end a hand salute?

The correct answer is that the commander gives the command to end a hand salute once the Colors are six steps past the unit. This timing is based on military protocol and tradition, which dictate that saluting is an act of respect during the passage of the Colors. The salute begins when the Colors approach and is maintained until they are sufficiently distanced to ensure that the marker of respect is appropriately conveyed.

At six steps past the unit, it is considered appropriate and respectful to end the salute. This allows cadets to acknowledge the significance of the Colors while also adhering to a standard and uniform practice that emphasizes discipline and respect within the formation. The other options either suggest ending the salute too early or too late, which would not align with the established customs of military protocol surrounding the Colors.