Understanding Army Regulation and Customs
As a member of the United States Army, it is essential to understand and adhere to the customs and courtesies that govern the behavior of soldiers. These customs and courtesies are rooted in tradition and are designed to promote discipline, respect, and professionalism within the ranks. In this article, we will explore six key customs and courtesies outlined in Army Regulation (AR) 600-25, which provides guidance on the customs, courtesies, and traditions of the Army.
1. Rendering the Hand Salute
The hand salute is a fundamental custom in the Army, and it is a sign of respect and courtesy. According to AR 600-25, the hand salute is rendered to show respect to superior officers, the United States flag, and during certain ceremonies and events. The salute is executed by raising the right hand, with the palm facing outward, to the forehead, with the elbow slightly bent. The salute is held for a brief moment before being dropped back down to the side.
When to Salute:
- When greeting or parting ways with a superior officer
- When the United States flag is presented or retreated
- During the playing of the national anthem
- During certain ceremonies and events, such as parades and reviews
đź“ť Note: The salute is a sign of respect and should be executed with precision and confidence.
2. Addressing Superior Officers
Addressing superior officers is another important custom in the Army. According to AR 600-25, soldiers should address superior officers by their rank and last name, unless otherwise instructed. For example, a lieutenant colonel should be addressed as “Colonel Smith.” When addressing a superior officer, soldiers should use formal titles such as “Sir” or “Ma’am.”
Examples of Proper Address:
- “Yes, Sir”
- “No, Ma’am”
- “Good morning, Colonel Smith”
đź“ť Note: Addressing superior officers with respect and formal titles demonstrates professionalism and discipline.
3. Giving and Receiving Reports
Giving and receiving reports is an essential part of Army protocol. According to AR 600-25, soldiers should give reports to superior officers in a clear and concise manner, using formal titles and addressing the officer by their rank and last name. When receiving a report, soldiers should stand at attention, look the reporting soldier in the eye, and acknowledge the report with a nod or a verbal response.
Example of Giving a Report:
“Good morning, Sir. This is Private Johnson reporting for duty.”
Example of Receiving a Report:
“Very well, Private Johnson. Carry on.”
đź“ť Note: Giving and receiving reports in a professional manner demonstrates respect and discipline.
4. Table Manners and Protocol
Table manners and protocol are important customs in the Army, particularly during formal dining events. According to AR 600-25, soldiers should follow formal table manners and protocol, including keeping their elbows off the table, not talking with their mouth full, and not using their phone during meals.
Table Manners and Protocol:
- Keep your elbows off the table
- Do not talk with your mouth full
- Do not use your phone during meals
- Wait for the senior officer to start eating before beginning to eat
đź“ť Note: Following formal table manners and protocol demonstrates respect and professionalism.
5. Funerals and Memorial Services
Funerals and memorial services are solemn events that require respect and dignity. According to AR 600-25, soldiers should follow specific customs and courtesies during these events, including rendering the hand salute, standing at attention, and following the orders of the funeral or memorial service commander.
Customs and Courtesies:
- Render the hand salute during the playing of the national anthem
- Stand at attention during the ceremony
- Follow the orders of the funeral or memorial service commander
đź“ť Note: Following customs and courtesies during funerals and memorial services demonstrates respect and dignity.
6. Retirement Ceremonies
Retirement ceremonies are significant events that honor the service and dedication of retiring soldiers. According to AR 600-25, soldiers should follow specific customs and courtesies during these events, including rendering the hand salute, standing at attention, and presenting the retiring soldier with a certificate of appreciation.
Customs and Courtesies:
- Render the hand salute during the playing of the national anthem
- Stand at attention during the ceremony
- Present the retiring soldier with a certificate of appreciation
đź“ť Note: Following customs and courtesies during retirement ceremonies demonstrates respect and appreciation.
In conclusion, understanding and adhering to Army customs and courtesies is essential for promoting discipline, respect, and professionalism within the ranks. By following the six key customs and courtesies outlined in AR 600-25, soldiers can demonstrate their respect for the Army’s traditions and their commitment to upholding its values.
What is the purpose of Army customs and courtesies?
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Army customs and courtesies are designed to promote discipline, respect, and professionalism within the ranks.
How do I render the hand salute?
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The hand salute is executed by raising the right hand, with the palm facing outward, to the forehead, with the elbow slightly bent.
What is the proper way to address a superior officer?
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Superior officers should be addressed by their rank and last name, unless otherwise instructed.
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