Posted on Dec 14, 2020
Do I need to render a salute to an officer when my hands are occupied?
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This is the second time I’ve gotten reprimanded for this situation. I was walking with a binder in my hands, and a mug in the other hand. I walked past a CSM and a CPT, greeted both as I was unable to salute. CSM stopped me and demanded that I drop everything to salute the CPT. AR 600-25 states that I am not required to render a salute if I am carrying articles with both hands. What is the right answer?
Customs and Courtesies
Saluting
Officers
Enlisted
Posted 5 y ago
Responses: 633
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First of all, saluting is not a chore. It's a privilege. It's you demanding a return salute recognizing you both as professionals.
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CSM just being a CSM. If your hands are full and you can't adjust then no need to salute, but do give a greeting to acknowledge the officer.
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For one the mug should have been left behind. But this could go two ways. Should have adjusted to the left hand / arm. The officer could have replied "Carry On" and you great the officer with "Good Day, Good Morning, Good After Noon or Good Evening"
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Nope! I reprimanded one of my lieutenants for chewing out one of my soldiers when the private didn't put down a box he was carrying and saluting the lieutenant.
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Most respectable Officers will acknowledge your situation and tell you at ease before you start fumbling
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can you put the mug in the other hand? There is really someone that has time to worry about stuff like this? If I were you, I'd apologize and point out that your carrying these items. Bring your rule book with you figuratively at least and be ready to justify it as politlely as possible
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That 1 good thing about the Navy, you do not salute indoors unless you are under arms. You also don't salute uncovered.
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