US Army Customs and Courtesies
A custom is an unwritten law that derives from tradition and is enforced as a social norm. Conversely, a courtesy represents respectful behavior often associated with customs. In the military, military courtesies are an extension of such behaviors towards individuals or things that honor them in some way. These customs and courtesies hold significant value in the profession of arms as they showcase one’s dedication to duty, honor, country, professionalism, and pride. It is crucial for new soldiers and future Army leaders to understand that these military customs and courtesies consistently display the high standards of conduct expected from officers and soldiers. They are rooted in a code of chivalry that remains universal throughout the armed forces. Respect for others can be demonstrated by standing at attention or parade rest when they enter a room or conversation based on their rank (officer or NCO). Another essential military courtesy is saluting; it goes beyond being merely an exchange of honors but signifies respect and trust among fellow soldiers. The act of saluting not only follows regulations but also acknowledges each other’s commitment, abilities, and professionalism. Some historians theorize that the hand salute originated during late Roman times when assassinations were prevalent.
In early American history, citizens had to raise their right hand when approaching a public official to show they were not armed. This tradition was similar to knights in armor raising their visors with their right hand as a sign of respect. Over time, this custom evolved and by 1820, it became common to simply touch one’s hat as a gesture of respect. Today, this has become the hand salute that is used to show respect towards an officer, flag, or country. The way you execute the salute can speak volumes about your character as a soldier. A confident and crisp salute reflects pride in oneself and their unit, while a sloppy salute may suggest lack of confidence or disrespect for the unit. It may also indicate improper training in saluting techniques. When not saluting or at attention, it is customary to allow officers to have the position of honor at a table. These informal gestures demonstrate respect for Army Values and showcase one’s character. Uncovering one’s headgear, such as removing a beret or hat, is not only good manners but also a gesture of respect towards others. Unless carrying weapons indoors, headgear should be removed. Officers and enlisted Soldiers should uncover when sitting as part of or attending court proceedings or boards, when entering places of worship, and during official receptions. Basic courtesy plays an important role in reflecting an individual’s demeanor, discipline, and manners.
It is important to note that genuine politeness and courtesy are generally well-received by most people. When walking down a street in towns and cities, observe how people react when greeted with a simple “good morning.” This response holds true for soldiers as well. Some military units choose to replace this greeting with their unit motto, such as “Airborne!” or “Shadow by God.” This serves to highlight the pride they have in their unit and demonstrates the discipline and professionalism of the soldiers within it. To learn more about customs and courtesies in the US Army, you can refer to AR 600-25 or FM 7-21-13. Enlisted personnel and officers both assume two positions when addressing their superiors. When an officer enters a room occupied by enlisted personnel or cadets, they are called to attention, following proper etiquette. However, officers are not expected to imitate this custom in front of senior officers. Therefore, officers can gain others’ attention without a command by individually assuming the position of attention at appropriate times or through one officer announcing the presence of the senior officer, prompting other officers to assume the position of attention.In a classroom filled solely with cadet officers, the Professor of Military Science’s entrance would be announced by one of the cadet officers as “Gentlemen, the Professor of Military Science.” Likewise, when engaging in conversation with an officer, soldiers and cadets are expected to assume a standing position of attention until instructed otherwise by the officer.
PARADE REST: Parade Rest is a demonstration of respect towards NCOs from individuals with lower rank. When a Senior NCO enters an area occupied by junior enlisted soldiers or cadets, everyone is instructed to relax. All personnel must then take on the stand at-ease position until further direction is given. Similarly, when conversing with an NCO, junior soldiers or cadets should maintain the parade rest stance unless directed to assume stand at ease, be at ease, or relax. Here are some actions and statements that should be avoided:
When speaking to superiors, it is crucial to always use your own voice and refrain from criticizing the Army or a leader in public. It is important to avoid bypassing superiors or the chain of command and never make excuses or falsely claim that a superior gave an instruction. Additionally, giving the hand salute should not be ignored and running indoors or pretending not to hear during reveille or retreat should be avoided. Wearing uniform while under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited.
If you are unsure about a superior’s question, respond with “I don’t know sir, but I’ll find out.” These customs and courtesies are outlined in FM 7-21-13, which provides guidance on established practices governing military life including both positive actions and taboos that should be avoided. Many Army customs align with military courtesy and contribute to garrison life. Violating certain customs may convey ignorance, carelessness, or ill-mannered behavior, potentially resulting in official reprimand or disciplinary action (COURTESIES 4-4).
Courtesy is crucial in the Armed Forces for maintaining discipline. It entails displaying good manners and politeness when interacting with others, fostering positive human relations. Military courtesy, unlike civilian courtesy, was developed within a military context and is now an essential aspect of serving in uniform. 4-5.
Most forms of military courtesy have equivalents in civilian life. For instance, soldiers are taught to address higher ranking officers as sir or ma’am. Similarly, young individuals are often instructed to use sir when referring to their fathers, ma’am for their mothers, and to extend this form of respect to other elders. It is considered good etiquette for younger individuals to use sir or ma’am when addressing older individuals. The use of sir is also prevalent in the business world, such as in the salutation of a letter or within organized institutions.4-6.
Military courtesy is a two-way street, with enlisted personnel and officers expected to show respect and courtesy to each other. Army courtesies are numerous and serve to demonstrate self-discipline and respect. When addressing an officer of higher rank, stand at attention until instructed otherwise and salute upon dismissal or the officer’s departure. When speaking to a higher-ranking noncommissioned officer, stand at parade rest until instructed otherwise. The first soldier to recognize a superior officer entering a room calls personnel to attention, but saluting indoors is only done when reporting.
When a superior-ranked NCO enters the room, the first soldier acknowledges them by calling the room to “At ease.” It is customary to walk on the left side of an officer or NCO who outranks you. When boarding or exiting a vehicle, the soldier of lower rank enters first, followed by the higher-ranking soldier. If approached outdoors by an NCO, it is respectful to greet them by saying “Good morning, Sergeant,” or using an appropriate title such as “Sir,” “Ma’am,” or “Sergeant” depending on the circumstance. The person who notices an officer entering a dining facility should give the order to “At ease,” unless a higher-ranking officer is already present. This courtesy is often extended to senior NCOs as well. If you hear the command “At ease” in a dining facility, you should remain seated, silent, and continue eating unless instructed otherwise.
Regardless of rank or time spent in service, it is crucial to always respect and never underestimate customs and courtesies. It is essential to handle confrontations with superiors tastefully and refrain from making impulsive decisions that could result in negative outcomes. The workplace can be navigated more effectively by following the tips and guidelines provided below.
To prevent making impulsive comments, it is important to pause and reflect on how your words could be interpreted before speaking.
2. Recognizing and comprehending the perspective of others, you can convey: “I acknowledge that my Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) desire for me to challenge myself and assume a leadership role.”
It is crucial to be mindful of cultural differences and consciously act in a manner that demonstrates sensitivity and respect, while avoiding any potential offense towards others.
4. Engage in a private conversation with a trustworthy friend and seek their assistance or guidance, or explore the possibility of them addressing the matter with others.
When feeling annoyed, it is important to maintain a positive perspective in order to stay calm and communicate effectively.
It is important to stay calm and not allow yourself to get caught up in the heat of the moment. Remember that as a professional, it is crucial to maintain a neutral stance and act in a composed manner.
7. If you have a problem that is too significant to ignore, address it with the person responsible for making you feel this way. Clearly express your thoughts to them while remaining composed and avoiding anger. Keep going with your day and reflect on what was said, considering how you can respond.
No matter the situation, it is never appropriate to disrespect an Nco or officer. Situations can be resolved if approached with tact and a clear mind, which I strive to do daily when feeling overwhelmed. Self-control is crucial in exhibiting tact and is a quality of a good leader. Effective leaders manage their emotions, finding the right balance of sensitivity and passion to connect with their subordinates.
Maintaining self-control is crucial for Army leaders as it inspires calm confidence in the team and encourages feedback from subordinates. In combat, self-control becomes even more important as losing it can negatively impact those who follow. It is beneficial for leaders to maintain emotional balance, as it allows them to display appropriate emotions and understand others’ emotional states. They can draw on their experience and provide subordinates with the right perspective on unfolding events. Balanced leaders approach different situations with a range of attitudes, from relaxed to intense, choosing the most suitable one for the circumstances. These leaders are able to convey urgency without causing chaos within the organization, motivating their team to continue the mission even in challenging moments.
To succeed and demonstrate good moral character and fiber, adhering to the guidelines of the US Army customs and courtesies is essential. In cases where maintaining cool becomes challenging, it is advised to step back, assess the situation, and approach it tactfully to avoid offending superiors and peers alike.
