Military_Customs_and

Military Customs and Courtesies

The military services have a long history. Many traditions have been established as a result of this long history. If you are familiar with some of these traditions, you will understand the military better. These traditions can be broken down into various customs and courtesies.

A custom is a way of acting - a way that has continued consistently over such a long time that it has become similar to a law. A courtesy is a form of polite behavior and excellence of manners. You will find that Navy life creates many special situations, not found in civilian life, that require special behavior on your part. Customs and courtesies help make life orderly and are a way of showing respect.

The rules of the Hand Salute:

"Accompany your salute with a cheerful respectful greeting; for example, "Good morning, Sir / Ma am"; "Good Afternoon, Commander Jones."

Always salute from the position of Attention. If you are walking, you do not need to stop; but hold yourself erect and square. If on the double, slow down to a walk when saluting.

Look directly into the officer s eye when saluting.

If you are carrying something in both hands and cannot render a salute, look at the officer as if you were saluting and render a verbal greeting.

Army and air force policy, unlike the Navy s, is to salute when uncovered. Suppose you are in an office with several Army personnel, and all of you are uncovered. An officer enters and the soldiers rise and salute. You should do so likewise; to do otherwise would be ill-mannered and/or disrespectful.

Salute properly and smartly. Avoid saluting in a casual or perfunctory manner. A sharp salute is the mark of a sharp sailor.

Whom to Salute:
Salutes are rendered to all officers of the armed forces and reserves.