The Perfect Form of the Military Salute: A Guide for Civilians

When it comes to the military salute, it's a question that every new recruit in the US military is trained to answer. But what about civilians? While you might not walk around saluting people randomly, there are times when knowing how to render a proper military salute can be a valuable skill. This guide will walk you through the correct form and provide insight into the history and significance of this gesture.

Understanding the Military Salute: What and Why?

The military salute is a formal gesture used to honor and show respect to commissioned officers and non-commissioned officers (NCOs) in the US military. It is a respectful acknowledgement of authority and service. The salute is a traditional military courtesy and symbol of respect that is performed by taking off the hat with the right hand and raising the hand to the forehead, or by merely raising the right hand with the fingers together and lightly touching the forehead or bridge of the nose (if you are wearing a hat or not).

How to Render the Military Salute

When to Render a Salute

It is generally acceptable to salute when you make initial physical contact with a superior officer, when the officer (regardless of rank) and you encounter each other in a hallway, and when the officer passes. However, if a superior officer is wearing a hat, you do not need to return the salute unless the officer specifically requests it.

The Proper Hand Position

Starting with your right hand, take your hat in a proper manner by pinching the brim or touching the headset, if applicable. If you are not in uniform, keep your right hand in the air with fingers together and palm facing down, and bring your hand to your forehead (which is the IJ salutation, standing for “I Join”). If you are in uniform, you can perform the salute by raising your hand to the IJ salute position and touching your forehead or the top of the hat with the tips of your fingers.

The Gaze and Duration

While rendering the salute, maintain eye contact with the officer, and focus on the area between the officer's eyes. Hold the salute for a moment, then lower your hand, but keep your arm extended until the officer returns the salute. Once the officer returns the salute, you may then return to your previous position or continue with your duties.

What to Do if You Are Unarmed

If you are unarmed (but still wearing a service uniform), you can still render the salute by bringing your hand to your forehead or the top of the hat.

Special Cases and Alternatives

Remnants of headgear (such as a beret or scarf) can be held in the same way as the hat would be. If you are wearing gloves, you can perform the salute by raising the index and middle fingers of the right hand and touching your forehead or the top of the hat. If you are performing the salute while talking, you can touch the brim or headset with your fingers while delivering a brief greeting or salutation.

The History and Significance of the Military Salute

The roots of the military salute can be traced back to the time of ancient Rome, where officers and soldiers would raise their right hand as a sign of honesty and integrity when making an oath. The practice evolved and became a symbol of respect, with the salute being performed in warfare to ensure that soldiers were not facing a foe whom they would need to surrender to. Modern military salutes are still used to express respect and acknowledgment of authority.

Conclusion

While the military salute is primarily associated with the US military, understanding and knowing how to render it can be a useful skill in certain situations. Whether you are in uniform or not, knowing the proper form of the military salute can show your respect for military service and professionalism. Remember, the key to a successful military salute is to show respect, maintain good posture, and perform the gesture with confidence and integrity.

References

Department of Defense Respect Guidance Army NCO Armount 204 United States Marine Corps Respect Guidance