Posted on Mar 20, 2015
Does a retiree return a salute when entering a military base?
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This is a long standing debate with a close friend, in the Navy you do not salute uncovered or in civilian clothes but when I go on our local AF bases the military guards salute me. I return the salute out of respect for all of those currently serving. http://www.armystudyguide.com/content/Prep_For_Basic_Training/Prep_for_basic_customs_and_courtesies/the-hand-salute.shtml
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Saluting
Customs and Courtesies
Saluting Customs and Courtesies
Posted 9 y ago
Responses: 40
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It used to be the blue sticker on the DoD decal...if you have one on your car, expect that you will be saluted on an AF base...also, if the installation entry controller sees the rank on your blue ID, again, they will most likely salute. Simply return the salute or extend a verbal greeting...
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I will not salute while not in uniform as per direction given to me by my Drill Instructors. Yet, while in civilian clothes I always do acknowledge salutes rendered by some form of wave and/or greeting/thank you.
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I do primarily because the subordinate is to hold it until returned but mostly to be honest it's muscle memory.
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Suspended Profile
As far as I'm concerned, if I'm not wearing a uniform, I don't return a salute. I will thank the guard at the gate, greet him/her, etc. I might nod in acknowledgement of the salute, but as a Navy guy, I don't return it...
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I think at the least LCDR Jaron Matlow there is a difference amongst the branches. Since it offends my friend and I am on an AF instillation I have changed my actions to respect/honor their service.
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LCDR (Join to see) what do you mean by "since it offends my friend..."?
I do totally acknowledge that there are different customs in different services. The base I live nearest is JB Lewis McChord (Army/AF). I have never been challenged, questioned, or otherwise heard someone at the gate there take offense at my not returning a salute. I haven't worn the uniform for over 15 years, but even when I was on A/D, in civvies I didn't return salutes.
I do totally acknowledge that there are different customs in different services. The base I live nearest is JB Lewis McChord (Army/AF). I have never been challenged, questioned, or otherwise heard someone at the gate there take offense at my not returning a salute. I haven't worn the uniform for over 15 years, but even when I was on A/D, in civvies I didn't return salutes.
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No to clear that up I have never heard a gate guard complain it is a discussion with my pass anger who is a retire AF O-5 and valued friend, so after reading the Army reg that I posted the link for I felt like it was at least a difference between branches if not also a customary thing that has evolved over the years. I am glad I asked the question as it stimulated some good responses/discussion
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I did not retire but did 7 years in the Army. Once your out I think it is optional because you no longer fall under UCMJ. But personally I do because I served and I think it is only right and you know the meaning and tradition.
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I'm confused - what did you do when entering Navy bases when saluted by security when in civilian clothes while on active duty? I'm not sure I understand the difference.
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Chief for me the only difference is now that I am working on primarily AF installations and it is their custom I return the salute. Out of respect for their custom but, when I was on active duty coming on a Navy base in civilian clothes I did not salute because that is how I was taught in the Navy.
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goes back to the discussion I hear alot lately. you are saluting the rank not the individual. if this is a problem then soldiers need to be (re)trained when it is and is not appropriate to salute. unless they are in uniform with rank showing you do not salute. if their govt vehicle is marked with an officers rank you would salute. use to be when you registered personal vehicle for post stickers they included an officers rank. my understanding is all installations have gotten away from using these stickers for safety reasons.
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Grow a goatee, you wont have the problem unless the DOD Vehicle sticker gives you away.
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I believe it is up to the retiree, if they feel like they should let them do it.
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