Which of the following pennants should be flown five minutes before morning and evening colors?

The preparative pennant is flown to signal the imminent ceremony of morning or evening colors, indicating to the crew that they should prepare for the raising or lowering of the national ensign. This pennant is often displayed five minutes prior to the actual colors being conducted, serving as a notification for personnel to gather and pay their respects in accordance with Navy traditions.

Flying the preparative pennant allows for both organization and ceremony, as it provides a clear indication that colors are about to take place, thereby ensuring that all hands are ready to participate. This builds discipline and respect for customs and traditions within naval operations.

In contrast, the ensign is the flag that is raised or lowered during the ceremony itself, the day pennant is typically flown to indicate the ship's operational status during daytime, and the warning pennant is used to signal danger or readiness to arms, which are not related to the specific timing of morning and evening colors.