Let's upend things. Is there any situation where officers salute enlisted first?

2016-11-04T02:34:04-04:00

If your initial answer is 'no wai! Ossifers NEVER salute enlisted first!!'....step back and reassess. Alternatively, step back and learn. Because there's at least TWO situations where this happens, that I can think of in my old age.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2016 2:40 AM

2016-11-04T02:40:56-04:00

No, never seen that!

Response by SPC Jill Drushal, RN, MA made Nov 4 at 2016 2:42 AM

2016-11-04T02:42:36-04:00

Officers salute enlisted Medal of Honor recipients first.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Nov 4 at 2016 7:10 AM

2016-11-04T07:10:16-04:00

Other than MoH recipients, I have only seen one occasion at a retirement ceremony. But it wasn't according to any regs, the officer did it out of respect to the retiree.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Nov 4 at 2016 7:11 AM

2016-11-04T07:11:53-04:00

MOH recipient

Response by SPC Erich Guenther made Nov 4 at 2016 8:01 AM

2016-11-04T08:01:14-04:00

Guessing on the second instance. First is MoH awardee which was already discussed. How about when your carrying the Colors? I guess they aren't really saluting you and you can also claim when both hands are full you do not have to salute.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2016 8:36 AM

2016-11-04T08:36:47-04:00

I see my fellow butter bars salute enlisted folks pretty much every day. The privates seem to freak out, while the NCOs just laugh at us.

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Nov 4 at 2016 8:42 AM

2016-11-04T08:42:10-04:00

I used to give the old head fake arm jerk to get officers to salute first. Does that count?

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Nov 4 at 2016 8:45 AM

2016-11-04T08:45:35-04:00

Officer of the Deck if boarding a ship.

Though not required (under regulation), it is customary and recommended to salute Medal of Honor recipients.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2016 9:01 AM

2016-11-04T09:01:37-04:00

it happened to me once in my career and the officer was an old chaplain and he just jumped the gun and saluted first and this was a bunch of years ago.

Response by CPT Jim Schwebach made Nov 4 at 2016 9:25 AM

2016-11-04T09:25:05-04:00

While it is not required to salute Medal Of Honor recipients, it is a long standing tradition for service members of all services and ranks to salute them. It is required that all service members salute the OOD, or the OOD's representative regardless of rank, when boarding a Naval or Coast Guard vessel.

As a matter of curiosity, do Army vessels have OOD's and is there a similar requirement in that case?

Response by LTC Marc King made Nov 4 at 2016 9:49 AM

2016-11-04T09:49:02-04:00

ORIGIN OF THE HAND SALUTE
No one knows the precise origin of today’s hand salute. From earliest times and in many distant armies throughout history, the right hand (or "weapon hand") has been raised as a greeting of friendship. The idea may have been to show that you weren't ready to use a rock or other weapon. Courtesy required that the inferior make the gesture first. Certainly there is some connection between this old gesture and our present salute.
One romantic legend has it that today’s military salute descended from the medieval knight's gesture of raising his visor to reveal his identity as a courtesy on the approach of a superior. Another even more fantastic version is that it symbolizes a knight's shielding his eyes from the dazzling beauty of some high-born lady sitting in the bleachers of the tournament.
The military salute has in fact had many different forms over the centuries. At one time it was rendered with both hands! In old prints one may see left-handed salutes. In some instances the salute was rendered by lowering the saber with one hand and touching the cap visor with the other.
The following explanation of the origin of the hand salute is perhaps closest to the truth: It was a long-established military custom for juniors to remove their headgear in the presence of superiors. In the British Army as late as the American Revolution a soldier saluted bv removing his hat. But with the advent of more cumbersome headgear in the 18th and 19th centuries, the act of removing one’s hat was gradually converted into the simpler gesture of grasping the visor, and issuing a courteous salutation. From there it finally became conventionalized into something resembling our modern hand salute.
As early as 1745 (more than two-and-a-half centuries ago) a British order book states that: "The men are ordered not to pull off their hats when they pass an officer, or to speak to them, but only to clap up their hands to their hats and bow as they pass."
Whatever the actual origin of today’s hand salute, clearly in the tradition of the US Army it has always been used to indicate a sign of RESPECT – further recognition that in the profession of arms military courtesy is both a right and a responsibility of every soldier.
Compiled by the
U.S. Army Quartermaster Corps Historian
Fort Lee, Virginia
Get it.. its a sign of RESPECT... It does not really matter who initiates the gesture of we are one team one force then we should have the respect and admiration for each person skill and job... The premise that who initiates is a false premise and units that have good order and discipline know the difference.

Response by PO3 Leroy Leftwich made Nov 4 at 2016 10:05 AM

2016-11-04T10:05:27-04:00

Only one I know of is a Metal Of Honor. Its tradition.

Response by SFC George Smith made Nov 4 at 2016 10:20 AM

2016-11-04T10:20:06-04:00

the Congressional Medal of Honor recipients...

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Nov 4 at 2016 10:29 AM

2016-11-04T10:29:49-04:00

Working in a joint and combined environment I likley saluted about a million enlisted folks by mistake and I was saluted first by many an officer from non US services........and US one that was off in dream land yet still walking down a sidewalk...
By regulation I can think of no US Army requirement for a Officer to salute an enlisted man first in the current Army we have.
Saluting the Pay offcier who was an enlisted guy by circumstances perhaps in an army long gone...is the only thing that comes to mind. But my guess is, there was always an offcier to be tasked as pay officer in those days.

Saluting a MOH is a common thing, a show of respect for the earned award.. but its not done by regulation, just time honored tradition.

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Nov 4 at 2016 11:27 AM

2016-11-04T11:27:24-04:00

Medal of Honor recipients... EVERYONE salutes first.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Nov 4 at 2016 5:07 PM

2016-11-04T17:07:22-04:00

Yes. If the person is a recipient of the Medal of Honor.

Response by LCDR Larry Franco made Nov 4 at 2016 11:16 PM

2016-11-04T23:16:26-04:00

Certainly when the enlisted member displays the MOH.

Response by MCPO Richard Flournoy made Nov 5 at 2016 10:25 PM

2016-11-05T22:25:00-04:00

When a Second Class Petty Officer, I was often saluted when attached to units full of soldiers (or newly minted Marines) because the crow on my collar looks a lot like an eagle from a distance. I always politely corrected the unfortunate soldier and told them that I work for a living just like they do. I would get a nervous laugh in reply and they would be on their merry way wondering what had just happened.

Response by PO1 Eric Booker made Nov 7 at 2016 1:49 PM

2016-11-07T13:49:38-05:00

Think about it; Medal of HONOR. No, it's NOT required by regs. However, IF you've done something so above, and beyond so that your HONOR has been awarded with this nations highest medal...I don't think any officer has an issue with saluting you.

Saluting the officer of the deck upon leaving or boarding a Naval command also occurs.

Response by TSgt Jim Gregg made Nov 8 at 2016 6:07 AM

2016-11-08T06:07:27-05:00

When the AF first went sewn on subdued rank for BDUs, I had a 2nd Lt. Salute me first, he then stated " they don't teach SSgt to salute officers?". I saluted and replied " Sorry sir, I couldn't see your rank". Personally he looked like an E-1 to me and his subdued butter bar was black in a black section of his BDU.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2016 6:48 AM

2016-11-08T06:48:26-05:00

Nobody has mentioned Sideboys for a departing or retiring Navy member. While officers don't normally stand as sideboys, this is a scenario where an enlisted will salute an enlisted. Also it is one of the few occasions where a lefthanded salute is given (Boatswains Mates playing the pipe).

Response by SFC Robert Jackson made Nov 8 at 2016 7:34 AM

2016-11-08T07:34:37-05:00

Funeral

Response by SPC Phil Norton made Nov 8 at 2016 8:05 AM

2016-11-08T08:05:09-05:00

MOH recipient's I served with a Cpt that was a recipient amazingly humble man and very laid back he said I got a medal for loosing my sh*t and going crazy he stated that he figured he was going to die so he charged two machine gun nests to get it done with he just happened to take them both out he said he didn't know he was shot several times until his squad moved up and the medic started treating him he was a private in Vietnam I asked him if he got paid extra because he bought a new corvette every time the body style changed he said in a way he said I never have to pay taxes again they figure I have fulfilled all debts to my Country great man and I can't remember his name kind of sad but I do remember his humility also you might think as I did shouldn't he have been a higher rank well turns out another perk is he could choose not to advance he didn't want the hassle of higher rank

Response by PO2 Drew Brown made Nov 8 at 2016 8:43 AM

2016-11-08T08:43:56-05:00

When an enlisted member is in the company of a more senior officer, the junior officer salutes the senior officer and the senior officer and his company then returns the salute.

Response by GySgt Ed Gartland made Nov 8 at 2016 9:35 AM

2016-11-08T09:35:57-05:00

Wearimg the MOH?

Response by SGT William Revis made Nov 8 at 2016 9:39 AM

2016-11-08T09:39:55-05:00

Metal of Honors recipients even general officers will render respect for the award and person whom has received.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2016 9:53 AM

2016-11-08T09:53:08-05:00

CMH (Medal of Honor or Congressional Medal of Honor) bearers are to be saluted by anyone first, regardless of their own or their salutor's rank, I believe.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2016 10:14 AM

2016-11-08T10:14:46-05:00

A very long time ago, we were visiting my aunt in San Antonio. For whatever reason, she wanted me to put on my Marine dress blues and the group of us would go visit Lackland AFB.

Oh my. Oh my, my. All the recruits were saluting ME. I was really kind of embarrassed. I finally called one over to speak to him in private and explained that I was a Lance Corporal, an E-3, and he didn't have to salute me.

I guess the word got around, because it was only a few minutes before all the saluting stopped.

Only time I was ever on Lackland until quite some time after I retired. From the Air Force...

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2016 10:19 AM

2016-11-08T10:19:14-05:00

And, back to the original question -- people who wear the MPH customarily receive a salute from everybody else, and I believe the OOD on a Naval vessel receives a salute when someone is requesting to come aboard. Although, in looking at films of the various parties coming aboard the Missouri for the surrender of Japan at the end of WW2, that custom may vary.

Response by SFC Maitland McKenzie made Nov 8 at 2016 11:10 AM

2016-11-08T11:10:27-05:00

In addition to what I have read above, I would add that at my retirement ceremony, the host commander saluted each retiree after presenting them with their awards.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2016 11:29 AM

2016-11-08T11:29:30-05:00

Coming aboard the boat (requesting permission aboard), MoH recipients, enlisted carrying uncased colors are the first three that come to mind.

Response by LCpl Stephen Arnold made Nov 8 at 2016 12:00 PM

2016-11-08T12:00:24-05:00

I was stationed in Norfolk, VA, and the AC in our office went out. We were all in tshirts, no blouse. As the lower ranking Marine, I got to go do a message run to higher, so I put on my blouse and went out to pick up messages. I walked by a Marine Sergeant who looked at me funny, saluted and said "Good afternoon, SIR?" I awkwardly saluted back and went about my business, until a Corporal walked by, again with the puzzled look, and saluted me, saying "Good morning, Chief?" I returned his salute, and kept moving forward.

About this time, I heard my CWO2 running at me screaming, "ARNOLD, ARNOLD, COME HERE!" I turned around, and as he walked up I noticed that MY Lance Corporal chevrons were a bit faded, the black paint was chipping off.

The Chief said, "I realized I took your blouse when I lit up a Staff Sergeant for not saluting me, to which he replied, 'I don't salute Lance Corporals'." Since it was the Chief's fault, I didn't get smoked (too bad), but we had a good laugh at the weekly Team BBQ Friday afternoon.

Response by PFC Pamala (Hall) Foster made Nov 8 at 2016 12:23 PM

2016-11-08T12:23:01-05:00

Salute Purple Heart and Medal of Honor ALWAYS

Response by PO1 Kevin Dougherty made Nov 8 at 2016 12:30 PM

2016-11-08T12:30:38-05:00

On a related subject, I did have another thought, though more of an oops. When visiting other services as a PO in the CG, I have at times received salutes, usually from other enlisted, who didn't quite know what to make of our flat brimmed hats and silver and gold collar devices. I always returned the salute, and endeavored to do so with a straight face.

This was less common on a Navy Base, as they used similar collar devices, although I could see their minds working trying to figure it out since only Chiefs and Officers wore the flat hats in the Navy.

Response by Arsenio Ibay made Nov 8 at 2016 12:45 PM

2016-11-08T12:45:41-05:00

Officially, there is no law or military regulation requiring all servicemembers to salute Medal of Honor recipients, but you are allowed to do so when the recipient is physically wearing the medal, according to the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.
The tradition of saluting recipients comes from an Army tradition of having them take part in military parades, during which they would stand with an officer during the “pass in review,” and both would return salutes from commanders as they passed by, according to the society.

Response by PO3 Robert Smith made Nov 8 at 2016 12:59 PM

2016-11-08T12:59:19-05:00

yes medal of honor recipients are always saluted first.

Response by CAPT Lyle Brown made Nov 8 at 2016 2:27 PM

2016-11-08T14:27:01-05:00

Third situation: A salute is a greeting, that's really all it is (although a formal one). If an officer passes an enlisted carrying something with both hands, and the enlisted says "Good Morning, Sir" or the equivalent, they are greeting you, and you owe them a salute. It is rude to ignore the greeting, and mean-spirited to demand they put down their load and salute you.

Response by SSgt Lester Bell made Nov 8 at 2016 2:59 PM

2016-11-08T14:59:52-05:00

Medal of Honor winners.

Response by LCpl Stephen Arnold made Nov 8 at 2016 3:19 PM

2016-11-08T15:19:03-05:00

Kind of unrelated; I was walking through the main gate at FMFLANT, as a young Lance Corporal. A Marine Second lieutenant walked towards me, so I saluted, with an appropriate greeting, and was completely ignored. It was a 2dLT so I wasn't too upset until I heard a familiar growl from behind; "LANCE CORPORAL ARNOLD, COME HERE!" I turned around and there was the Master Gunnery Sergeant directly behind me; he had stopped the 2dlt and began to shred him a new asshole.

I began feeling sorry for the 2dlt as "Top Guns" (he loved that nickname) shredded him; major guilt trip about 'disrespecting a junior Marine", "Showing why they hate zeroes", and other assorted pleasantries. The lieutenant meekly whimpered something about "having a bad day", to which Top Guns replied, "How do you think his day is, being disrespected by a dumbass 2d john (where I learned that phrase)?"

The 2d lieutenant apologized to me, began to render a salute, so I beat him to it (he'd suffered enough humiliation I thought), then turned to the MSGYST, half expecting a salute so that this "teachable moment" could be put to bed. "You're dismissed, LIEUTENANT!" was all he got, as Top Guns hands never left his pockets (you don't tell a MSGYST about that fashion feax paus unless you're wearing a bird or some stars on your collar). He winked at me, grunted something about "Fuck off" and departed, and I caught up with the lieutenant (who had turned around; I just realized that 30 years later), and begged him AGAIN to have a great day.

Senior Non coms, Gods' greatest creation.

Response by James Pikula made Nov 8 at 2016 3:19 PM

2016-11-08T15:19:27-05:00

Officers of all ranks proudly salute a MOH recipient despite rank who is displaying the medal itself, or the ribbon in his stack.(Fruit Salad) in uniform. They also salute MOH recipients in civilian clothes who are wearing the medal itself or have the distinctive rose blossom lapel pin. There is a old story that Chief of Staff General George Marshall came to see MOH recipients Audie Murphy on set of a movie set Marshall stuck his hand out to shake Murphy remained at attention in front of him. Marshall looked down at his hand then took a step back came to attention and quickly snapped off a crisp salute.to Murphy. I know Murphy was an officer at the time thanks to a battlefield commission but he was still a enlisted grunt at heart.

The only other time I can think of officers saluting enlisted is during a burial ceremony for a fallen comrade under their command. I am sure these are probably not the two you are looking for, but I wanted to venture a guess at least.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2016 3:32 PM

2016-11-08T15:32:04-05:00

The Medal of Honor recipients are saluted by "any officer" who are present. They deserve to be recognized for their valor and bravery. I had the honor of meeting such men in my military career and post career. Unfortunately some had a rough time afterwards but now they are with our Lord Jesus Christ and watching over all of all. Amen.

Response by CCMSgt Raymond F. (Ray) Allen III made Nov 8 at 2016 3:46 PM

2016-11-08T15:46:20-05:00

MOH is only situation I can think of...whathey is the other?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2016 4:03 PM

2016-11-08T16:03:20-05:00

When in doubt, whip it out!

Response by CPO Michael Butler made Nov 8 at 2016 5:04 PM

2016-11-08T17:04:43-05:00

I and another PO1 (E6) were TDY to an Air Force Base For C-130 Flight Engineer training. as we left the barracks for the simulator building, we approached an AF LtCol., we continued walking, he called out to us and asked if we sailors no longer saluted officers. My buddy looked him right in the` eye and said 'Have you ever seen Z-Gram 57, it says we no longer have to Salute Officers below the rank of Colonel after 10 o'clock in the morning." The Officer apologized and told us to be on our way. We prayed that we did not run into him again. This was in 1975.

Response by SSG Jeremy Sharp made Nov 8 at 2016 8:48 PM

2016-11-08T20:48:28-05:00

If the enlisted member is a recipient of the Medal of Honor.

Response by MAJ Michele Bretz made Nov 8 at 2016 10:27 PM

2016-11-08T22:27:27-05:00

Yes, a higher ranking officer can salute a junior officer if that junior officer is being reported to when requesting to go back ashore at a retirement. I had the opportunity of this happening by my little brother. You can see my last military picture on my profile.

Response by Capt Michael Halpin made Nov 8 at 2016 10:51 PM

2016-11-08T22:51:57-05:00

Officers are free to salute any enlisted man who they feel deserves it, such as for courage in battle especially if that act of courage saved men in my unit or my life.

Response by CDR Ed Griffith made Nov 8 at 2016 11:24 PM

2016-11-08T23:24:42-05:00

I have saluted enlisted people I really respected in civilian or my Navy uniform. They always returned the salute. It is a sign of mutual respect, not subservience.

Response by SSG G Smith made Nov 9 at 2016 12:00 AM

2016-11-09T00:00:05-05:00

Officers always salute first when they are O1 butter bars lol. Loved having that happen when teaching OBC

Response by MCPO Kurt Stauff made Nov 9 at 2016 12:29 AM

2016-11-09T00:29:24-05:00

The first would be if the enlisted person was a Medal of Honor recipient; we all salute those silver stars on a blue shield, regardless of rank. The other doesn't come quickly to mind.

Response by PO1 James White made Nov 9 at 2016 1:23 AM

2016-11-09T01:23:03-05:00

Enlisted MOH recipients shall receive a salute first from any officer unless that officer has a MOH also.

Response by PO1 James White made Nov 9 at 2016 1:24 AM

2016-11-09T01:24:58-05:00

Although there is a situation where wearing a crow, especially a second class crow on the collar that mad more than a few soldiers render honors to a PO2 thinking they were O6s.

Response by SPC Aedan McCluskey made Nov 9 at 2016 2:27 AM

2016-11-09T02:27:49-05:00

When the Enlisted Service member is a MOH holder, the Officer salutes first. Not sure of the second one

Response by SGT Stanley Bass made Nov 9 at 2016 11:17 AM

2016-11-09T11:17:08-05:00

Not reading anything below yet. My first thought was MOH recipients. Now lets read below.

Response by PO3 Hahn Ko made Nov 9 at 2016 11:58 AM

2016-11-09T11:58:40-05:00

Embarrassingly enough I was still in A-school at Pensacola and walked by an officer who was in his khakis and I had mistaken him for a chief, he walked me first, I was confused then quickly saluted back and offered a sincere apology for my mistake. The second time it happened it was when I was a third class at my last duty station, I was outside on a distressing phone call and crying and didn't notice an officer walk by, he tried to correct me when he realized I was crying and was gracious enough to allow me to offer him a quick salute and walk away with out saying another word. It happens oddly enough, but officers should also take into account to be patient and understanding that there are circumstances where we as the enlisted try our best to avoid this situation.

Response by SSG Mark Franzen made Nov 9 at 2016 7:44 PM

2016-11-09T19:44:51-05:00

when they Have the Medal of Honor.

Response by MSgt Joseph Rende made Nov 10 at 2016 11:29 AM

2016-11-10T11:29:05-05:00

Definitly (i can't spell today) the receipent of the MOH as well as when the NCO is incapastitaded such as a wound or broken arm.

Response by COL Robert Davies made Nov 10 at 2016 12:48 PM

2016-11-10T12:48:10-05:00

Your picture tells only half of the story. I THINK you are not saluting the person but rather the medal that is hanging around his neck.

Response by COL Robert Davies made Nov 10 at 2016 8:04 PM

2016-11-10T20:04:08-05:00

Not to take anything from the discussion so far ESPECIALLY the MOH. Another occurrence is a memorial or a funeral. The Memorial Display; boots, weapon, and dog tags. Whether it is the CG, CINC, or a recruit. The expectation is to salute.

Response by LTC Debra Tompkins made Nov 23 at 2016 8:11 AM

2016-11-23T08:11:53-05:00

Medal of Honor recipient

Response by SP5 Steven Doyle made Nov 29 at 2016 1:02 PM

2016-11-29T13:02:08-05:00

When the enlisted has been awarded the Medal of Honor, ALL officers shall render a salute when approaching at 6 paces or when the situation dictates that the enlisted soldier should render the salute, the officer does first. This is the only time I am aware of this protocol. 'Merica.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 30 at 2016 1:46 AM

2016-11-30T01:46:03-05:00

I would expect a 2LT to salute the CSM of the Army first? No written rule, but given the CSM's experience and widespread respect, I would if I were a 2LT

Response by CW2 Gary Cody made Dec 19 at 2016 6:45 PM

2016-12-19T18:45:27-05:00

If said enlisted was wearing the "Medal of Honor "

Response by CPO John Hopkins made Dec 29 at 2016 11:09 AM

2016-12-29T11:09:37-05:00

When I was stationed aboard USS Ranger (CV-61) our Command Master Chief, BMCM David Hobbs was saluted by Officers on a consistent basis. He had 10 hash marks on his SDB's, and it was reported that he didn't even own a set of civilian clothes until he retired.
When I was an instructor at NSCS Athens, I would be assigned as Command Duty Officer once a month, and was saluted by the Commissioned Officers who were under instruction (key phrase: "Positional Authority") while performing as CDO.

Response by SSG Thomas Gallegos made Jan 18 at 2017 7:40 AM

2017-01-18T07:40:45-05:00

If I am not mistaken a Soldier who was awarded a Soldiers Medal gets saluted as well.

Response by CPT Chris Newport made Jan 18 at 2017 9:55 PM

2017-01-18T21:55:36-05:00

Holders of the Medal of Honor

Response by SFC Larry Vittetoe made Jan 24 at 2017 1:09 PM

2017-01-24T13:09:58-05:00

If the enlisted person was a Medal of Honor recipient the officer returned

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Jan 24 at 2017 5:14 PM

2017-01-24T17:14:19-05:00

If the enlisted soldier is a Medal of Honor winner he will definitely be saluted first what's the other?

Response by PO3 Kenn Andrus made Jan 25 at 2017 8:24 AM

2017-01-25T08:24:50-05:00

if that enlisted has received the MOH he deserves a salute from all that they meet, whether it be officer or enlisted

Response by SGT Lloyd Burge made Jan 25 at 2017 9:37 AM

2017-01-25T09:37:15-05:00

There were many times when I was carrying something heavy or large and couldn't put it down. When coming up toward an officer I would nod my head and greet the officer. The officer would take this as a salute, and return the salute.

Response by SGT Thomas Harkins made Mar 22 at 2017 3:17 PM

2017-03-22T15:17:40-04:00

Does running the chain on a officer count

Response by SP5 Dave Westbury made Mar 22 at 2017 4:03 PM

2017-03-22T16:03:29-04:00

When in doubt, salute.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 22 at 2017 5:16 PM

2017-03-22T17:16:51-04:00

Officers salute Purple Heart first

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 22 at 2017 5:35 PM

2017-03-22T17:35:13-04:00

Just on a side note--do all Navy personnel salute with their thumb in the position that the officer in the picture does? It sort of looks like he's trying to do a combo of making a pistol figure with his hand while doing a Mr Spock live long and prosper thing with his fingers at the same time.

Response by Nelson Ormsby made Mar 22 at 2017 5:42 PM

2017-03-22T17:42:27-04:00

As a tree-hugging civilian, what bothers CavDad is POTUS saluting, particularly when boarding Marine One/AF One. To my knowledge this didn't become standard protocol until Reagan initiated the dubious practice. Yes, understand POTUS as C&C, but having been unable to find any evidence of any POTUS prior to 1980 regularly engaged in the practice, CavDad left to rhetorical ask if the likes of Grant and Ike not snapping salutes, then enough already? Perhaps some future POTUS might consider not engaging in the practice, and CavDad hopes he's alive to see the firestorm of social media, protesting the POTUS "doesn't respect the military" as a result of returning us to longstanding practice.

Response by MAJ Luca Luca made Mar 22 at 2017 6:06 PM

2017-03-22T18:06:30-04:00

MOH Recipients are saluted first regardless of rank. I saluted Frank Buckles on his last visit to the DC, because he was the last WWI vet, not reg, pretty sure it gets a go at the station though.

Response by Cpl Eric Honomichl made Mar 22 at 2017 6:40 PM

2017-03-22T18:40:55-04:00

Medal of Honor recipients.

Response by Cpl Brandon Rocco made Mar 22 at 2017 6:48 PM

2017-03-22T18:48:00-04:00

The fresh LTs usually saluted a few of the salty guys in my last unit out of respect

Response by SSG Lyle O'Rorke made Mar 22 at 2017 9:11 PM

2017-03-22T21:11:00-04:00

The day I penned my SSG rank I was also getting a coin and penned by the theater commander for USFK. My wife a PFC at the time was Getting out the next day (chapter 8). The general after the ceremony went to my wife saluted her and told us his wife would have killed him if he hadn't recognized my wife for all she had done and what she was doing for our family. She still talks about it today 10 years later.

Response by CW4 Angel C. made Mar 22 at 2017 9:23 PM

2017-03-22T21:23:37-04:00

Honestly, it shouldn't matter who salutes first. There are too many people obsessed with the salute. An officer who demands a salute is either a power tripper or is truly committed to instilling discipline in his/her troops. And a service member that doesn't salute first is either undisciplined or not paying enough attention.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 22 at 2017 9:28 PM

2017-03-22T21:28:45-04:00

Last part was perfect

Response by LCpl Paul Baumeister made Mar 23 at 2017 12:33 AM

2017-03-23T00:33:22-04:00

Color guards and CMH recipients... Although the Color Guard detail only ever applied to me. It makes sense. Your hands are kinda full of something fairly important. Always made me a little giddy when I'd see officers saluting us. First couple times, my right arm actually twitched a little out of reflex.

Response by PO3 Marion Hunt made Mar 23 at 2017 12:34 AM

2017-03-23T00:34:43-04:00

Many times I was saluted as an E2-E4 by officers first. Of course, I was POOD and they were requesting to board the sub, but they saluted first none the less.

Response by SGT Chester Beedle made Mar 23 at 2017 1:39 AM

2017-03-23T01:39:09-04:00

Nevermind... my question was already answered I just hadn't read that far.

Response by MSgt Duane Buck made Mar 23 at 2017 2:25 AM

2017-03-23T02:25:08-04:00

I believe Purple Heart award members is one of them.

Response by SPC Jonny Filkins made Mar 23 at 2017 9:31 AM

2017-03-23T09:31:40-04:00

You know enlisted used to salute each other too...

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Mar 23 at 2017 10:46 AM

2017-03-23T10:46:09-04:00

The only two situations I could even comprehend of an officer rendering a salute first would be to an enlisted MoH recipient. The other is a new 2Lt saluting an enlisted parent as a way of saying thank you.

Response by SPC Daniel Melendez made Mar 23 at 2017 12:23 PM

2017-03-23T12:23:40-04:00

When is not manditory or allowed not to salute??

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 23 at 2017 1:17 PM

2017-03-23T13:17:13-04:00

I was in a small formation at the end of an exercise where the CWO4 walked in front of each of us and saluted us as he thanked us for our work, dedication, and professionalism. He said he was compelled to recognize us each individually. I'd be lying if I didn't say it felt special. So, I've been saluted personally by an officer and often as a member of a color guard.

Response by SP5 David Scott made Mar 23 at 2017 1:36 PM

2017-03-23T13:36:54-04:00

Knew about the Medal of Honor.

Response by SSgt Nicholas Merchant made Mar 23 at 2017 2:25 PM

2017-03-23T14:25:49-04:00

The salute over centuries has been a sign symbol of respect and honor the Spartans were the first to use a formal salute it was given to show respect. The reason the US salutes palm down is actually very simple it was to distinguish us from the British even more no other reason. As far as an officer saluting first in combat, at a medal of honor recipient, and death.

Response by 1SG Ernest Stull made Mar 23 at 2017 3:32 PM

2017-03-23T15:32:43-04:00

I know if you have a MOH, an officer must salute you.

Response by SSgt Daniel Reed made Mar 23 at 2017 3:57 PM

2017-03-23T15:57:09-04:00

Even the highest ranking general or admiral will salute a Medal of Honor recipient first. Anyone in the military who has received the Medal of Honor rates a salute from any other military member regardless of rank. If an army private has received our nation's highest honor, a general must salute him.

Response by A1C Gerald Conner made Mar 23 at 2017 4:20 PM

2017-03-23T16:20:25-04:00

Officers salute anyone who has been awarded the Medal of Honor

Response by COL John Hudson made Mar 23 at 2017 4:31 PM

2017-03-23T16:31:17-04:00

In Vietnam, Tet of 1968, I flew a mission to Tan Son Nhut Air Force Base in Saigon. I observed an Air Force Major intentionally waiting for groups of enlisted SMs to walk by, then jut out in front compelling them to salute - and woe to any one of them that was slow in responding. He would constantly repeat this act! I've never forgotten that situation and the incredibly insecure personality that felt it necessary to force himself on others rather than earn respect. I've never had any good feeling for individuals that did something like that and swore that when my time came, I would do it differently. How? By saluting first. You should see the wonderful look of surprise on the face of a young SM when he/she realizes an Officer (of any grade level) - just raised a hand to their cap before they themselves could even begin!!!! I've practiced that tactic for years and have been rewarded with genuine respect and admiration from all of the wonderful enlisted SMs that it has been my privilege to work with. JCH

Response by Cpl Dale Winans made Mar 23 at 2017 4:36 PM

2017-03-23T16:36:15-04:00

For Medal of Honor recipients, officers salute first. Doesn't matter if the wearer is an E-1 and the officer is an O-10, even the CMC. Also doesn't matter if the recipient is in civvies. MOH recipients may wear their medal or rosette while in civilian dress clothes. All personnel in uniform still have to salute.

Response by CPL Vince Higgins made Mar 23 at 2017 4:42 PM

2017-03-23T16:42:57-04:00

He hasCMH ID SALUTE HIM EVEN IF I WAS A 5 STAR GENERAL

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 23 at 2017 4:46 PM

2017-03-23T16:46:04-04:00

Anyone else notice how ate up those salutes are good god

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 23 at 2017 4:58 PM

2017-03-23T16:58:33-04:00

Just wanted to say, great photo. It also appears the officer may have broken his pinky somewhere down the line.

Response by MSgt Christopher Schoen made Mar 23 at 2017 5:14 PM

2017-03-23T17:14:20-04:00

Defense Authorization Act of 2009 (veterans, retirees not in uniform): Section 9 of title 4, United States Code, is amended by striking "all persons present" and all that follows through the end of the section and inserting the following: "all persons present in uniform should render the military salute. Members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute. All other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, or if applicable, remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Citizens of other countries present should stand at attention. All such conduct toward the flag in a moving column should be rendered at the moment the flag passes."
The president signed the Amendment to Section 9 of Title 4 of the U.S. Code| which was attached with the H.R. 4986 Bill under the National Defense Authorization Act of 2008.

June 4, 2008

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 23 at 2017 5:29 PM

2017-03-23T17:29:40-04:00

medal of honor, if the ood on ship is an enlisted

Response by SSgt Michael Cox made Mar 23 at 2017 6:11 PM

2017-03-23T18:11:18-04:00

Medal of Honor recipients and navy petty officers since the bling on their caps look like Lt Col or Commanders rank.

Response by FN Charlie Spivey made Mar 23 at 2017 9:13 PM

2017-03-23T21:13:46-04:00

If an Officer comes aboard ship, he will turn and face the flag at the stern and salute. He will them turn and salute Quarter deck watch and ask permission to come aboard. Once the Quarter deck acknowledges and grabnts permission, the officer coming aboard will drop the salute and proceed on, and the quarterdeck watch is an enlisted man. That is the same for both Enlisted and Officers. On my ship, the officers assigned to the ship would salute the flag, turn and salute the watch and keep going as a rule.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 23 at 2017 9:35 PM

2017-03-23T21:35:42-04:00

Apparently, if your a Signal Warrant at WOBC or WOAC, you salute the 1SG every morning before you report, lol.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Mar 24 at 2017 2:28 AM

2017-03-24T02:28:43-04:00

MOH, and when you are saying goodbye.

Response by SSgt Matt Perkins made Mar 24 at 2017 6:30 AM

2017-03-24T06:30:13-04:00

Medal of Honor

Response by SSgt Matt Perkins made Mar 24 at 2017 6:30 AM

2017-03-24T06:30:55-04:00

Medal of Honor

Response by PO2 Al Campos made Mar 24 at 2017 7:51 AM

2017-03-24T07:51:08-04:00

I remember as a young P03 coming out of Dental with a mouth full of cotton, passed a LT right up, he saluted and I didn't he then turned around and shouted Petty Office you are supposed to Salute an officer, I tried to say sorry LT and granted his salute, he wanted to know why so I just pointed at my jaw and the Dental office, he then shouted and wanted to know who I worked for, so I just said I work directly for the Admiral, he walked away after that...LOL

Response by MSgt Raymond Stettner made Mar 24 at 2017 10:53 AM

2017-03-24T10:53:57-04:00

How about if the enlisted soldier, sailor or airman had received the "Blue Max", the Medal Of Honor?

Response by SGT Andrew Schmidt made Mar 24 at 2017 12:23 PM

2017-03-24T12:23:53-04:00

I was saluted by a bunch of Officer Candidates that mistook me for a major ( my unit crest on my Beret looked somewhat similar from a distance). As an NCO I laughed and asked when candidates started saluting Sergeants.

Response by SSgt Ryan Sylvester made Mar 24 at 2017 12:46 PM

2017-03-24T12:46:43-04:00

Not quite on track with the whole actual situations thing here, but certainly speaks to some absentmindedness causing a salute gaffe.

Before I put on the uniform for real, I was an AFJROTC cadet throughout high school. Last year I was in the program, I decided to invoke a little Group Commander privilege and go with the first year cadets on the annual trip to tour Selfridge ANGB. It was a nice event, we'd get decked out in service dress and all that, have lunch at the O-Club, visit the ATC tower, that sort of thing.

So as we were coming out from lunch, there's a butter bar approaching our group, heading who knows where. Our Col wasn't with us, so I was ranking member of the group outside. I squared up ready to fire off a salute, except he beat me to it. His hand didn't go down after I brought mine up, either... until I dropped my salute. He must have legitimately thought he was saluting a superior officer. Granted, I was a C/LTC with a 6-deep rack, but there's no way someone with any military training was mistaking a JROTC cadet uniform for the real thing at the time (1996), especially in the same service branch (way different accouterments, patches on sleeves, no U.S. insignia, no silver wire on cover, etc). Best guess I could think of, he glanced at the shoulders, saw metal, and committed to the salute.

Of course, then I turned around and saluted a Navy chief outside our MSS at my first duty station, so I guess it all kind of evens out in the end.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2017 1:16 PM

2017-03-24T13:16:01-04:00

My guys would get a kick out of lining up in order and making it unavoidable for me to salute a dozen men. There's a benefit to being enlisted, outnumbering the officers and being the one to initiate the Salute. Your not going to see an officer go out of his way to find someone to salute him, but you'll see a group of young Enlisted attempt saluting you from 50 yards away and 90 degrees from your direction :D . It's all good fun though, we had a great company and great comradery. (Being a Mustang I have to admit, I use to do the same as well).

Response by MSG Mark Million made Mar 24 at 2017 3:19 PM

2017-03-24T15:19:43-04:00

Medal of Honor recipients.

Response by SSG Samuel Fortune made Mar 24 at 2017 4:49 PM

2017-03-24T16:49:31-04:00

Actually there is no regulation requiring you to salute the medal of honor

Response by SGT Mark Enegren made Mar 24 at 2017 6:32 PM

2017-03-24T18:32:57-04:00

CMH. My drill sgt was one and officers always rendered the salute first to him.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2017 8:30 PM

2017-03-24T20:30:57-04:00

The 2 instances of MOH and boarding vessel have been covered and also some good history. Thought I read somewhere that saluting dated at least back to Knighthood or similarly equipped Warriors. The physical motion of lifting armor of eye-shield on helmet to allow someone to recognize you as friend vice foe was a form of salute. History buffs feel free to weigh in with any specifics, or tell me I'm totally screwed up. Nothing new there. I just remember reference to it from somewhere. Then again, I may have dozed off during Braveheart or Gladiator...Strength and Honor.

Edit: It may be a stretch and I'm not certain - maybe any experts can square me away on it - but possibly one more instance. Assuming the Widow or designated next of kin to receive flag at Military Funeral is Enlisted and presenter is Officer? The presenter normally renders the 4 second hand salute after kneeling or bending at the waist and presenting the flag. Would this apply <as a technicality> as Officer saluting Enlisted first? It's not a daily occurrence but over the years it has happened - far too many times. Many Officers render hand salutes for Enlisted during the funeral but symbolically only since the deceased will not be returning the salute. The next of kin does not either for that matter as they are usually seated.

Response by PO2 Samuel Lewis made Mar 24 at 2017 8:59 PM

2017-03-24T20:59:02-04:00

I do know that if the enlisted is a MOH recipient the officer salutes first. other than that I don't know.

Response by SSG Charles Twine made Mar 24 at 2017 9:20 PM

2017-03-24T21:20:09-04:00

IF the enlisted is a Medal of Honor

Response by MSG Frederick Otero made Mar 24 at 2017 10:15 PM

2017-03-24T22:15:33-04:00

If enlisted has the MOH.

Response by SSG John Arneman made Mar 24 at 2017 10:37 PM

2017-03-24T22:37:52-04:00

MOH Winners and Ship watch when boarding.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2017 12:33 AM

2017-03-25T00:33:01-04:00

Well the MOH recipient, everyone salutes him senior AND junior, Enlisted AND officer.

But what's the other one?

Response by SSgt William Mavis made Mar 25 at 2017 1:41 AM

2017-03-25T01:41:53-04:00

you are not being fair to or army brothers they dont,often board a ship,on smaller ships the aaod may well be standing the brow,likely a po 1,you salute him and ask permission to board he is standing in proxy for the capt.also,on some sea tugs,a 1st class or chief boatswain,he also is due the courtesy of his berth

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Mar 25 at 2017 5:42 AM

2017-03-25T05:42:44-04:00

I think and I could be wrong, officers salute enlisted if the enlisted has earned the Medal of Honor and the officer has not.

Response by CPL Michael Fanning made Mar 25 at 2017 8:55 AM

2017-03-25T08:55:25-04:00

As a Crewchief on helicopters when i fireguarded on initial start if all the systems were ok my pilot would give me a quick salute before I would get in the aircraft.It was their way of thanking us.

Response by PO1 Frank Reiffenstein made Mar 25 at 2017 10:14 AM

2017-03-25T10:14:35-04:00

When requesting permission to come aboard ship. Salutes Flag,then salutes Petty Officer of the Watch and request permission to come aboard.

Response by SSgt Rito Rodriguez made Mar 25 at 2017 11:01 AM

2017-03-25T11:01:29-04:00

Yes when an enlisted is wearing the M O H . the officer is saluting the medal and showing respect for the enlisted who won it.

Response by PO3 Eric Larson made Mar 25 at 2017 11:29 AM

2017-03-25T11:29:27-04:00

I had an incident when I was awarded the Navy/Marine Corp Commendation Medal, where I was saluted by the Skipper first. The actions that my shipmates, that were also awarded and I took, greatly decreased the fact that we may have lost a ship at sea. He felt the need to salute us first.

Response by MAJ Victor Alarcon made Mar 25 at 2017 2:37 PM

2017-03-25T14:37:34-04:00

An Officer will salute any MOH RECIPIENT and any enlisted or junior rank officer after performance with great results of fulfilling his or her duties

Response by PO2 Brian Buck made Mar 25 at 2017 4:05 PM

2017-03-25T16:05:17-04:00

I believe officers salute Army Rangers first!

Response by SSG Jimmie Baker made Mar 25 at 2017 4:49 PM

2017-03-25T16:49:16-04:00

In cases of post mortum in a ceremonial situation, you bet your ass they do

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2017 5:21 PM

2017-03-25T17:21:35-04:00

When an enlisted member is transiting on foot with an officer, the enlisted member assumes the rank of the accompanied officer. If approached by an officer lower ranking than the one accompanied by the enlisted member, the lower ranking officer salutes and greets both the officer and the accompanied enlisted member. The officer-enlisted combo then returns the salute and greeting.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2017 5:32 PM

2017-03-25T17:32:08-04:00

On all Naval Ships everyone salutes the Flag and salutes the Officer of the Deck (OOD) and requests permission to come aboard. I stood OOD as an E-5 and received a salute from many officers.

Response by CPT Justin Kennedy made Mar 25 at 2017 5:54 PM

2017-03-25T17:54:48-04:00

Responding to this original question....I don't know of any other situation where an officer salutes first other than MOH. Granted, I don't remember all the edge cases: Tomb of the unknown soldier? Funeral procession? Under arms indoors? Not saying these are it, but there are multiple one-off cases that I may not be aware of.

Response by CDR Dan Culligan made Mar 25 at 2017 6:02 PM

2017-03-25T18:02:18-04:00

It would appear one other occasion has been missed; on a ship underway everybody not on watch requests permission from the Officer of the Deck to enter the bridge (except the CO/XO). We had a SM-1 qualified as OOD (U/W) on a DDG.

Response by PO3 Jean-Pierre Genoud made Mar 25 at 2017 7:15 PM

2017-03-25T19:15:16-04:00

Receiving colors from a color guard or funeral party.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2017 9:54 PM

2017-03-25T21:54:05-04:00

Absolutely. As it should be.

Response by SFC David Szucs made Mar 26 at 2017 12:49 AM

2017-03-26T00:49:12-04:00

MoH recipient is saluted first by all service members. Deceased during funeral. I cannot think of anything else unless there is a regulation addressing incapacitated by injury.

Response by SGT Scott Novak made Mar 26 at 2017 3:16 AM

2017-03-26T03:16:26-04:00

Rangers lead the fuckin way!!

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2017 9:12 AM

2017-03-26T09:12:53-04:00

I served 13 + as enlisted, then 22 commissioned so my perspective from both "sides" I recall being a junior Sailor walking down the pier not knowing if the khaki walking towards me was an Officer or a Chief Petty Officer. After commissioning, I often rendered a salute first, mostly when I saw that same look of trepidation in the eyes of an approaching junior. While it has become a junior/senior tradition and regulation, I always liked the explanation that it was an exchange of military courtesy between men at arms. I also corrected those who did not render a salute in a calm and direct way, often using a little humor and NEVER got an attitude.

Response by CW2 Fred Baker made Mar 26 at 2017 10:20 AM

2017-03-26T10:20:58-04:00

Saw a Spec 5 receive a salute from a bird once. He possessed the MOH. The salute is usually a sign of respect for the rank, but I have seen and received it as a sign of respect otherwise. I was dressed in a blue blazer and grey slacks at my son's graduation and he saluted me and said one word, "Chief!" The Admiral of the base tapped me on the shoulder and asked if I was a naval Chief. I responded that I was once an Army Chief Warrant helicopter pilot in Vietnam. The Admiral stated, "Allow me to salute you sir," and did.

Response by PO1 Rueben Davis made Mar 26 at 2017 3:48 PM

2017-03-26T15:48:42-04:00

Just walk past them, that way they can QQ in their milk.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2017 4:13 PM

2017-03-26T16:13:59-04:00

In the case of the of an officer saluting an enlisted person with an MoH, technically, they are saluting the medal and not the enlisted person. I know this is a technicality, but......

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2017 4:17 PM

2017-03-26T16:17:55-04:00

Any time you see navy enlisted from afar. It's hard to tell so Navy personnel always get saluted

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2017 5:17 PM

2017-03-26T17:17:36-04:00

You salute the rank regardless of how you feel about the officer. An officer salutes a Medal of Honor recipient regardless of rank and I suspect the second time is saluting the grave of an enlisted soldier.

Response by PO1 Barry West made Mar 26 at 2017 8:21 PM

2017-03-26T20:21:42-04:00

Any enlisted with the Congressional Medal of Honor is saluted first when encountered by any person who is aware of the Medal. Rank of the person rendering the salute is not important, at this time.

Response by Sgt James Childers made Mar 26 at 2017 8:57 PM

2017-03-26T20:57:21-04:00

If the enlisted member has been awarded the Medal of Honor its not written in stone but a customary courtesy.

Response by Sgt Charles Welling made Mar 26 at 2017 8:58 PM

2017-03-26T20:58:52-04:00

I have seen Marines salute my boss, a MSgt, more than once when he held muster for the CO. Of course they were saluting the CO but a MSgt is a MSgt.

Response by Sgt Charles Welling made Mar 26 at 2017 9:11 PM

2017-03-26T21:11:56-04:00

C'mon, folks. Many replies say saluting the OOD while boarding ship and then explain that enlisted serve as OOD at times. Listen to the term OFFICER OF THE DECK, OFFICER. You are saluting the position not the man.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2017 9:28 PM

2017-03-26T21:28:12-04:00

Reporting aboard a ship when the Quarterdeck OOD is enlisted.

Response by PFC Darrell Mcphetridge made Mar 26 at 2017 10:14 PM

2017-03-26T22:14:17-04:00

Officers do not salute enlisted or nco Medal of Honor recipients. They salute the Medal of Honor it's self.

Response by LCpl Sheila Clifton made Mar 26 at 2017 11:17 PM

2017-03-26T23:17:55-04:00

MOH recipient; funeral detail when folded flag is transferred from the senior enlisted in possession of the folded flag to the officer who will present the flag to the grieving family; junior officer to senior officer, Marine and Navy aircraft carrier pilots to the Catapult Officer regardless of rank which can be enlisted, warrant officer or officer.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2017 7:33 AM

2017-03-27T07:33:52-04:00

When the Navy switched over to 'Black and Tans' for the enlisted service uniform, I found it endlessly entertaining that Marines, mostly E1-E4, would salute PO3s. I'd tell them that, though I thought I was hot shit, I wasn't a Full Bird at 24 yo hot shit.

Response by PO2 Rev. Frederick C. Mullis, AFI, CFM made Mar 27 at 2017 1:56 PM

2017-03-27T13:56:03-04:00

Actually it is customary that whenever a Commanding Officer or Senior Officer awards any award of Valor or exceptional Merit to an Enlisted man, or lower ranking Officer, After the awarding of the medal and Pinning of the Medal, the Awarding Officer will Step back and Salute the Awardee. To whuch the Awardee will return the salute.

Response by PO1 Barbara Matthews made Mar 27 at 2017 3:09 PM

2017-03-27T15:09:34-04:00

In the Navy when an officer comes aboard a ship, he/she will salute the Ensign (American flag) first then turn and salute the Officer of the Deck and request permission to come aboard. The Officer of the Deck is often a Chief Petty Officer or Petty Officer standing duty as such.

Response by MCPO Cort Jensen made Mar 27 at 2017 5:59 PM

2017-03-27T17:59:50-04:00

Medal of Honor & when enlisted member is accompanying an officer senior to the approaching officer.

Response by SPC Bill Goodreau made Mar 28 at 2017 7:40 PM

2017-03-28T19:40:17-04:00

MOH

Response by PO2 Matthew Grant made Mar 29 at 2017 12:30 AM

2017-03-29T00:30:52-04:00

At most of the commands that I've been at a Commanding Officer will award enlisted men with the award in the left hand wile giving a hand shake with the right under the award, and then quickly snap their hand back and salute the enlisted man, usually followed by the enlisted man re saluting quickly as a sign of respect, but isn't necessary.

Response by PO2 Matthew Grant made Mar 29 at 2017 12:34 AM

2017-03-29T00:34:30-04:00

Also as a Plank Owner I was piped and saluted ashore as a final departure.

Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made Mar 29 at 2017 1:53 PM

2017-03-29T13:53:08-04:00

I don't know why everyone gets so freaked out over the subject of rendering a salute. It is a greeting extended to an officer of the Armed Forces. If rendering a salute to an officer makes you feel inferior, you chose the wrong line of work. If you take pleasure in avoiding it, you chose the wrong line of work.
If the courtesies and traditions we hold to be sacred are not carried out with enthusiasm they will fall to the wayside. If you don't get that, McDonalds is hiring.

Response by PO2 Billy Freer made Apr 1 at 2017 10:13 AM

2017-04-01T10:13:29-04:00

I know that Officers Salute receipants of the MOH

Response by CPT Kevin Shepard made Apr 2 at 2017 6:15 AM

2017-04-02T06:15:52-04:00

Officers salute Medal of Honor recipients first.

Response by SFC Earl Luppe made Apr 2 at 2017 8:49 PM

2017-04-02T20:49:28-04:00

YES, WHEN A MEDAL OF HONOR IS WORNED

Response by SGT Phillip Waddill made Apr 3 at 2017 4:36 PM

2017-04-03T16:36:00-04:00

I would think that an officer would need to salute and enlisted man/woman if the person was deceased.

Response by PO3 Joshua Williamson made Apr 3 at 2017 6:05 PM

2017-04-03T18:05:45-04:00

Yes

Response by TSgt Wayne Cartier made Apr 3 at 2017 8:59 PM

2017-04-03T20:59:12-04:00

Officer salutes MOH first and always. No matter the rank.

Response by PO2 Bradley Hunt made Apr 3 at 2017 9:00 PM

2017-04-03T21:00:25-04:00

Medal of Honor recipients

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2017 10:57 PM

2017-04-03T22:57:48-04:00

Officers will do this when taking over a formation or showing respect to someone has lost something, such as a limb in combat.

Response by SFC Jim Dorsey made Apr 5 at 2017 4:47 PM

2017-04-05T16:47:12-04:00

All Medal of Honor winners are to be saluted by everyone to include POTUS!

Response by Maj Wm Franklin made Apr 6 at 2017 10:33 PM

2017-04-06T22:33:27-04:00

Medal of Honor, for sure; OOD boarding ship (could be enlisted) and at a memorial (what ever rank).

Response by SFC Timothy N. Livengood made Apr 7 at 2017 3:25 PM

2017-04-07T15:25:40-04:00

To my knowledge only if the enlisted was awarded the CMH. Rightly so.

Response by Cpl Joshua Caldwell made Apr 25 at 2017 7:39 AM

2017-04-25T07:39:08-04:00

Officers salue enlisted first in two instances. The first being if the enlisted rates a Medal of Honor, the second being that the office is checking for snipers. lol

Response by Sgt Billy Miller made Apr 28 at 2017 6:59 PM

2017-04-28T18:59:56-04:00

YES, MY SELF, ON OKINAWA 5/SEPT.,1956, COMMANDING GENERAL 3RD MARINE DIVISION, MAG GENERAL, F.M. MC ALISTER F.M.F. SALUTED PRIVATE FIRST CLASS BILLY D MILLER 1536064 USMC, THE GENERAL SALUTED ME FIRST, THEN HE HUNG THE NAVY CROSS ON ME, THEN THE WHOLE 9TH MARINE DIV, GAVE ME A PASSING EYES REVIEW, I WAS SALUTED MY THE 9TH MARINE DIVISION, THERE ARE TEARS IN MY EYES RIGHT NOW REMEMBERING, GOD I LOVED YOU GAYS, I AM 81 NOW, IF ANY ONE STILL ALIVE, I SURE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU, SIMPER FI MY BROTHERS. SGT, BILLY D MILLER 1536064,

Response by Sgt Billy Miller made Apr 28 at 2017 7:10 PM

2017-04-28T19:10:06-04:00

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2017 9:37 PM

2017-04-29T21:37:42-04:00

I had my commander salute me while I was out fixing a jet that was impounded for a bleed air duct blowing out, and caused the panels on top of the wing to blow off. It was wierd, but come to think of it he was also.

Response by Cpl Robert Crockett made May 2 at 2017 9:15 PM

2017-05-02T21:15:21-04:00

Medal of Honor comes to mind. Large formation of marching men comes second to mind. Marching men is an excuse to throw a salute up -- on account of all the time it takes to scan all sides of the said marching formation. If one misses the higher ranking officer which may be lurking in said formation, it would prevent future embarrassment.

Response by PO2 Donald Walsh made May 3 at 2017 9:29 AM

2017-05-03T09:29:40-04:00

Purple heart reauires an officer to salute first out of respect.

Response by SPC Dale Peer made May 4 at 2017 3:39 PM

2017-05-04T15:39:11-04:00

Yes, I believe for a Medal of Honor recipiant

Response by SGT Jim Filey made May 14 at 2017 7:42 PM

2017-05-14T19:42:06-04:00

Go to NATO HQ, you might wind up saluteing a private from another country. Old rule, when in doubt, salute.

Response by Christopher Hicks made May 19 at 2017 4:20 AM

2017-05-19T04:20:01-04:00

Medal of Honor recipients and Warrant Officers, because, if I remember right, Warrant Officers are technically pare of the enlisted ranks, even though there is "Officer" in the title.

Response by SFC Shannon Ford made May 20 at 2017 11:07 PM

2017-05-20T23:07:05-04:00

If it was an 0-3 and above, not considering any grand medals, they would be saluted. Respected is a whole other ballgame. If your sorry ass hasn't maintained long enough to get the 0-3, good luck with that shit. All you've earned is a fucking degree. With a few exceptions. The old die hards can call me out, I really don't give a fuck. While you may have a position that says you are in charge of some shit, in reality, you're still learning from the subject matter expert who happens to be assigned below you, because politicians love dick sucking junior officers.

Response by CAPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2017 11:16 PM

2017-05-20T23:16:59-04:00

That's an old wives tale. There is no regulation that directs that an officer every salutes an enlisted first. They are allowed to salute a MOH recipient first, but it is not required.

Response by GySgt James Murphy made May 21 at 2017 6:54 AM

2017-05-21T06:54:39-04:00

Navy chiefs get saluted a lot by Marine enlisted. They wear shiny insignia on their collar and it's hard to recognize from a distance. As a Gysgt I've done it. It's a little embarrassing but understandable. Just laughed it off.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2017 6:46 PM

2017-05-23T18:46:23-04:00

I would just be happy if people saluted properly (enlisted and officer), not that cover one eye thing as if they're at the optometrist.

Response by LT John Ritenour made May 26 at 2017 8:37 AM

2017-05-26T08:37:54-04:00

I'm a medically retired LT (03). I always saluted CMOH first regardless of their rank - as I felt they earned it. Also - when boarding a Navy ship - I always saluted the OOD first - regardless of rank - when asking permission to come aboard.

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made May 26 at 2017 10:16 AM

2017-05-26T10:16:06-04:00

In cases where the enlisted is offended or stressed by saluting first then he can ask the officer to salute first. Once the officer salutes, he must then ask the enlisted if he'd like to return the salute right then or he can make an appointment to meet later at place considered safe by both and complete the salute in private. (and don't tell me Ash Carter didn't have this on a memo somewhere)

Response by PO2 Jordan Rudin made May 30 at 2017 3:13 PM

2017-05-30T15:13:35-04:00

when I was stationed on a FFG we routinely had CPOs and PO1s standing OOD watch, in this case an officer requesting permission to come aboard would be saluting an enlisted sailor.

Response by Cpl Thomas Jenkins made Jun 3 at 2017 4:34 PM

2017-06-03T16:34:46-04:00

We always Saluted the Sgt Major of the Marine Corps

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2017 10:01 PM

2017-06-03T22:01:52-04:00

If you are the in combat some Officers didn't want to be a target the greeting of the day was appropriate while working on vechiles. I wouldn't want one of team to knock himself out. And physical profiles right arm sling , ect. Soldiers get the mission Completed. That my opinion of refer to chain for guidance , AR 670.1

Response by SGT John Hamby made Jun 3 at 2017 11:42 PM

2017-06-03T23:42:18-04:00

yes there is, when the Enlisted Soldier is a MOH recipient

Response by Glenn Valis made Jun 6 at 2017 9:13 AM

2017-06-06T09:13:15-04:00

On some cavalry movie, the army sent some Major to advise the movie makers. When the Major- who was acting very snobby- came up to Audie Murphy, Murphy just gave him "the Stare" until he saluted.

Response by CDR Tom Davy made Jun 8 at 2017 10:05 AM

2017-06-08T10:05:24-04:00

When officers (and enlisted) board a Navy ship they salute the National Flag and the Officer of the Watch to request permission to come aboard. The Officer of the Watch may be a Petty Officer (NCO) who is the Commanding Officer's representative.
On a more personal note, when I left my first "command," I was the Department Head of 40 great people, I saluted them for their work.

Response by SSG Thomas Gallegos made Jun 8 at 2017 1:09 PM

2017-06-08T13:09:24-04:00

As the picture depicts, a Soldier having been awarded the Medal of Honor (MOH) gets saluted.

Response by SGT Rod Shaughnessy made Jun 10 at 2017 9:18 PM

2017-06-10T21:18:29-04:00

Other than MOH recipients, what is the other one?

Response by Andrew Tobias made Jun 11 at 2017 10:39 PM

2017-06-11T22:39:47-04:00

This reminds me of the scene in Band of Brothers where Captain Sobel looks at Winters and say "We salute the rank, not the man". But everyone who's done any time in the service knows that that's only partially true. If it's an officer whose a dick, you salute the rank, but if it's someone you actually like such as you PL or CO, you salute the rank AND the man. You can always tell the difference between a respectful salute and a "I'm only doing this so I don't get my ass chewed out for not aknowledging a superior officer" salute. Lol

Response by SPC Craig Smith made Jun 12 at 2017 5:26 PM

2017-06-12T17:26:31-04:00

Medal of Honor recipients when displayed

Response by CPT Ian Stewart made Jun 15 at 2017 5:34 PM

2017-06-15T17:34:17-04:00

I have often heard/read that officers salute MOH holders first and that during parades, the reviewing officer salutes the unit to which a MOH holder belongs during the inspection phase of the ceremony, but I have never read nor have been quoted the regulation that requires it. Can someone help?

Response by PO3 Mickey Horn made Jun 20 at 2017 12:55 AM

2017-06-20T00:55:19-04:00

Cmh honorees

Response by PO1 Richard Nyberg made Jun 20 at 2017 6:23 PM

2017-06-20T18:23:48-04:00

Yea if the Enlisted Man is a Medal of Honor recipient

Response by SPC Leslie Weber made Jun 21 at 2017 12:26 AM

2017-06-21T00:26:31-04:00

I wore a flight suit and officers mostly warrants thought we were officers !

Response by SSG Jerel Parker made Jun 25 at 2017 11:20 PM

2017-06-25T23:20:43-04:00

When the enlisted has been awarded the Medal of Honor, he/she deserves a salute from Officers and enlisted upon meeting.

Response by SFC Mario Rodriquez made Jun 27 at 2017 12:41 PM

2017-06-27T12:41:57-04:00

If the enlisted is wearing the Medal of Honor, the officer will salute out of respect for the Medal.

Response by PO1 Tony Damico Jr. made Jun 27 at 2017 10:25 PM

2017-06-27T22:25:42-04:00

Medal of Honor gets saluted first no matter what the rank of the one who wears it.

Response by SGT Linda Burgess made Jun 27 at 2017 11:51 PM

2017-06-27T23:51:38-04:00

Medal of Honor. It's always nice to see an arrogant officer ignore the Award and get called out for not rendering respect. And it's not the awardee that calls the officer out. Medal of Honor awardees are, from my experience, too humble to embarrass anyone.

Response by SP5 Wayne Springer made Jun 29 at 2017 3:02 PM

2017-06-29T15:02:19-04:00

Always salute first to medal of honor

Response by LTJG Edward Bangor Jr made Jul 1 at 2017 1:43 PM

2017-07-01T13:43:01-04:00

Navy-side, at least, the oncoming watch is supposed to salute the offgoing watch to relieve them. This means that I've saluted plenty of enlisted when turning over as OOD in-port.

Response by SSG Waldo Yamada made Jul 1 at 2017 2:24 PM

2017-07-01T14:24:46-04:00

It depends on timing. I always salute first and wait for the the return. If no return, I just walk off. If I would of known sooner; before I left, I'd stay composed to wait for the return to see if the officer understand the reason. If not, the officer has no time for b.s. Sometime's you gotta be serious but sometimes a little chuckle won't hurt and helps re assurance with each other.

Response by SPC Jeremy Gardner made Jul 2 at 2017 1:04 AM

2017-07-02T01:04:25-04:00

I have heard of times when this does happen. In your random encounter with an officer, the lower rank salutes first, if I remember right. I do remember that when I, or someone else got promoted, seeing the salute come from the officer first. Recognition of your accomplishment would make sense, so does the Medal of Honor I have seen people talking about. I have heard the story of the knights raising their visor as being on idea of the origin of the salute, but nothing definitive. I think I have only seen the officer salute first a handful of times, but each time was because of an accomplishment.

Response by LTC Tom Smith made Jul 3 at 2017 12:01 PM

2017-07-03T12:01:51-04:00

I believe pilots salute their crew chiefs and ground crew when taking off under some situations ) carriers for example.)

Anytime an officer wishes to show respect for a subordinate he/she can salute first.

Response by Cpl Tyler Therrien made Jul 6 at 2017 3:17 PM

2017-07-06T15:17:59-04:00

i can think of one- if enlisted is wearing CMH

Response by CW4 Richard A. Dropik made Jul 6 at 2017 5:07 PM

2017-07-06T17:07:07-04:00

All salute the Medal of Honor, not a person.

Response by CWO3 Bill Carter made Jul 6 at 2017 6:10 PM

2017-07-06T18:10:51-04:00

As the highest military award, I was always taught that a holder of the Medal of Honor is ALWAYS saluted regardless of the rank of the person rendering the salute. I considered it an honor to have served with BM1 James E Williams when I was a wet behind the ears CT3 stuck in transient barracks at NS Charleston in the spring of 1967. I knew he was up for the Medal at the time, though he was pretty quiet about it.. Learned a lot about leadership and how to be a good petty officer from him.

Response by Cpl Caleb Johnson made Jul 12 at 2017 9:33 PM

2017-07-12T21:33:45-04:00

MOH and, if the officer of the deck is enlisted. Usually a Chief....

Response by Sgt David Sowder made Jul 12 at 2017 10:21 PM

2017-07-12T22:21:42-04:00

Evidentally could be Dakota approaches an officer do you suppose.

Response by PO2 Jon Pyzel made Jul 13 at 2017 9:31 PM

2017-07-13T21:31:52-04:00

When said enlisted man is a MOH winner.
When the enisted is being buried at sea.

Response by PO1 Charles Babcock made Jul 14 at 2017 10:42 AM

2017-07-14T10:42:47-04:00

If the enlisted has MOH, everyone without one salutes him/her first.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2017 11:15 PM

2017-07-16T23:15:24-04:00

Some of my friends said the Navy Chiefs would make new Lts salute them at tech

Response by SSgt Rebecca Currier made Jul 21 at 2017 11:19 PM

2017-07-21T23:19:26-04:00

An officer may also salute an enlisted member first as an honor for a job well done, particularly if the officer feels the member has gone well above and beyond the call of duty.

Response by Sgt Michael Johnson made Jul 27 at 2017 8:56 PM

2017-07-27T20:56:13-04:00

The commanding general at 29 Palms in 1977 did the same thing.

Response by SPC Donald Moore made Jul 30 at 2017 12:36 AM

2017-07-30T00:36:29-04:00

I had earned the respect of an officer at one point and he would salute me when he met me first before I could do it. He thought it was funny.

Response by LCpl Cody Collins made Jul 31 at 2017 7:51 PM

2017-07-31T19:51:43-04:00

Yes there is, when said enlisted person is wearing the Medal of Honor.

Response by MSG Jerry O'Rourke made Aug 2 at 2017 8:08 PM

2017-08-02T20:08:23-04:00

In a school house eviorment when assuming certain Leadership positions this can happen.

Response by PO2 Gordon Reilly made Aug 3 at 2017 7:34 AM

2017-08-03T07:34:48-04:00

officers must salute enlisted recipients of the congressional medal of honer first

Response by PO3 Wayne Stewart made Aug 3 at 2017 7:42 PM

2017-08-03T19:42:18-04:00

A Navy Commander saluted a 3rd Class Petty Officer when the OP was leaving his boat for the last time. The 3rd Class PO saluted the top side watch and the National Ensign walked acrossed the gangway when he heard his named called. He turned around to see a DEPT. Head from his boat already saluting. He returns the salute quickly and is waiting for the Comander to drop his salute. The Commander does not but holds his salute The comander nods his head twice , the OP findly understands to drop his salute first and does. Than the Comander drops his. I know this is true because I saw it. This 3rd Class PO had helped this Officer during a major crisis and the PO was not aware what his actions ment to the officer until the Officers parting gesture toward him. In a word "SURPRISED !" Things sometimes happen without custom or presidence they just happen.

Response by MSgt Jimmy Mullins made Aug 3 at 2017 8:01 PM

2017-08-03T20:01:56-04:00

Officers are never required by law to salute an enlisted person. It is customary to for all to salute an MOH recipient, a deceased military member or veteran no matter what rank they are. Tradition has an officer render a salute to enlisted personnel receiving awards or medals.

Response by CPT Dave Brest made Aug 13 at 2017 3:29 PM

2017-08-13T15:29:14-04:00

I noticed one time when President George W. Bush was presenting a CMH to a soldier in the hospital. bed. The Prez. then saluted the recipient . I was touched beyond words.

Response by GySgt Lance Starnes made Aug 14 at 2017 2:27 PM

2017-08-14T14:27:59-04:00

Medal of Honor Recipients, & color Gaurds

Response by PO2 Tony Brodhead made Aug 28 at 2017 3:17 PM

2017-08-28T15:17:10-04:00

I was an SNBM running a full bird capt. into HQ. When we pulled up to the pier, he saluted me and requested permission to disembark.

Response by SPC Brian Stephens made Sep 1 at 2017 7:11 PM

2017-09-01T19:11:36-04:00

When I was in, it was my Lt. who saluted me, the PFC and Specialist first. And the way that worked was I was walking respectfully behind a group of other soldiers who would salute my LT passing the other way. They saluted him; he saluted back. Then I would pull the old, "Oh woops! Good morning, Sir" and salute after he dropped his hand. He would laugh, recognize me as Pusherman, nod at me and we would pass. So, the officer saluted first!

Response by MAJ Timothy Hyink made Sep 7 at 2017 11:33 AM

2017-09-07T11:33:34-04:00

Yes when they receive a high level medal.

Response by SSG Rodney Brown made Sep 8 at 2017 2:20 PM

2017-09-08T14:20:28-04:00

CMH

Response by 1stSgt Mack Housman made Sep 8 at 2017 2:23 PM

2017-09-08T14:23:13-04:00

Yes. Congressional Medal of Honor recipients.

Response by COL Howard McGillin made Sep 10 at 2017 9:06 AM

2017-09-10T09:06:12-04:00

A salute is a greeting that is unique to military and we share among ourselves. It shows respect - and that goes both ways. When I was a LTC the Army adopted the beret. I had a lot of soldiers that did not salute me first - so I started saluting them first. I had a suspicion that the rank looked like one of our unit insignia that enlisted wear on their beret. I asked one soldier that I had surprised with my salute and she confirmed that it was hard to distinguish the oak leaf from the unit insignia. After that I would just salute first. I respect the soldier not just the rank. I respect the service and the willingness to sacrifice. It is a greeting between warriors and it is unique to those who have served. Medal of Honor - thats easy - those are earned and deserve respect from all service members.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2017 8:10 PM

2017-09-14T20:10:14-04:00

at our funeral

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2017 11:29 PM

2017-09-14T23:29:29-04:00

war heros always deserve the salute

Response by SSG David Andrews made Sep 15 at 2017 1:40 PM

2017-09-15T13:40:10-04:00

The only one that comes to my mind is that they should salute the holder of the Medal of Honor. I cannot recall a second situation. Please let me know.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2017 9:50 PM

2017-09-17T21:50:38-04:00

I know the MOH recipients are to be saluted by everyone to include POTUS, as for the second one I can't quite think of a situation.

Response by SGT Lewis Jones made Oct 20 at 2017 12:07 AM

2017-10-20T00:07:16-04:00

When my company had a change of command and our CO was leaving, at final formation I presented him with a plaque from my platoon and he saluted me first. The show of respect humbled me.

Response by TSgt James Carson made Oct 20 at 2017 6:02 PM

2017-10-20T18:02:34-04:00

YESTHERE IS. When a enlisted person wins the Medal of Honor. At a military funeral is another I can think of. Or when a officer shows respect to a fellow warrior off the field.

Response by SN John Burkholder made Oct 20 at 2017 9:00 PM

2017-10-20T21:00:02-04:00

I was an E3 working as a messenger for the OD in Subic when the OD had to make an emergency run to the head. USS Eldorado LCC-11 was a flag ship for amphibious forces 7th Fleet and there was a planning meeting that day. As the "representative" of the OD I returned the salute of several Captains and Commanders that day. The OD was pretty well chewed out for that one.

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Oct 30 at 2017 1:12 PM

2017-10-30T13:12:27-04:00

If that NCO is a MOH winner he or she better salute them.

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made Oct 30 at 2017 1:34 PM

2017-10-30T13:34:26-04:00

Folks are still saluting these days? I thought I was the only one still rendering salutes! The other day while standing in the parking lot outside of a battalion, I was admiring a senior NCO's motorcycle when a Soldier walked by, the Soldier acknowledged the greeting we extended to her, but failed to salute the x2 CW5 warrant officers, the NCO allowed her to get about 10 paces then asked her to return, she kept walking, another 10 paces, then he got her attention. She returned and was asked about saluting officers. She had no answer and did a half decent hand salute which we returned and she left. This has gotten rather out of hand and mostly in the Army and Air Force. I am not throwing stones, but every time I walk past a Marine or Sailor, they seem to know what to do. I still salute all LT's as they call me sir and then I go into that correction, but that is another story. I know about saluting MoH recipients and those deceased, I was not aware of the Naval thing about coming only a vessel. That Navy thing is one of the reasons like RP so much in that I learn about other services and the things that occur.

Response by Cpl Bob Mason made Nov 1 at 2017 12:50 PM

2017-11-01T12:50:24-04:00

MOH awardees

Response by SPC Marcus DeMatos made Nov 1 at 2017 8:41 PM

2017-11-01T20:41:48-04:00

I can think of four situations... 1. MoH, as previously mentioned. 2. Saluting the position the enlisted member has (either in the Naval services as OOD, or if the enlisted person is in a position of authority, i.e. relieving them by assuming command). 3. If the enlisted person is part of an honor guard with the National ensign, then the precedence is for the officer to salute because it is the flag first. 4. As a final respect for a fallen soldier.

Response by Capt Joseph Olson made Nov 19 at 2017 11:43 PM

2017-11-19T23:43:32-05:00

They can whenever they want to. I did it once as I left a base and the NCOIC and I had a quiet moment together. It was a personal thank you for educating and covering my ass. We both understood, then we started grinning.

Response by MAJ John Hammack made Nov 24 at 2017 8:26 PM

2017-11-24T20:26:10-05:00

I had a shitty 1SG, so he never let me know I was doing this wrong:
When I as a company commander received the company from him, I should have saluted him first.

Response by PO1 Mike Edgecomb made Nov 29 at 2017 11:47 AM

2017-11-29T11:47:29-05:00

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 29 at 2017 3:55 PM

2017-11-29T15:55:14-05:00

Saluting President Buchanan first would be saluting a Private....

Response by PO3 JoseLuis Breton made Dec 4 at 2017 2:33 PM

2017-12-04T14:33:33-05:00

Yes, Any MOH recipient.

Response by LTC Byron Smith made Dec 5 at 2017 1:33 PM

2017-12-05T13:33:51-05:00

I, as President Bush did, do salute the wounded warriors first... IF I can beat them to it. They deserve my salute of respect for their sacrifice; a salute to honor them.

Response by FN Lance Butler made Dec 12 at 2017 9:09 AM

2017-12-12T09:09:55-05:00

Awardees CMH

Response by TSgt Gwen Walcott made Dec 21 at 2017 12:46 PM

2017-12-21T12:46:43-05:00

Award ceremonies

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 21 at 2017 2:33 PM

2017-12-21T14:33:48-05:00

How about End of Service/Retirement ceremony?

Response by COL Mel Huth made Jan 3 at 2018 10:18 PM

2018-01-03T22:18:31-05:00

MOH RECIPIENTS

Response by LTC John Burgess made Jan 6 at 2018 9:41 AM

2018-01-06T09:41:47-05:00

https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/pdf/web/AR%20600-25.pdf

AR%20600-25.pdf

Response by LTC Baltazar Soto made Jan 9 at 2018 3:37 PM

2018-01-09T15:37:50-05:00

My late father retired as a Staff Sergeant, E-6. He served in WWII, Korea, and Vietnam where he was combat wounded. I was commissioned an officer in Army ROTC and I ALWAYS saluted Dad first when I saw him. I could tell it gave him a thrill.

Response by PO1 James Matthew made Jan 21 at 2018 2:21 PM

2018-01-21T14:21:33-05:00

If enlisted is wearing a MoH then yes.

Response by LCDR Robert S. made Jan 21 at 2018 2:27 PM

2018-01-21T14:27:32-05:00

In the 600-odd responses, someone probably already mentioned it, but I'm going to offer the old Navy standby: an officer salutes first when the officer is a butter bar from one of the lesser services, and he/she encounters a Navy petty officer and sees the eagles on the petty officer's collars, pops his salute and says, "Good Morning, Colonel!" before the petty officer gets a chance to salute first.

Response by Cpl Mike Miller made Jan 22 at 2018 10:45 PM

2018-01-22T22:45:29-05:00

I actually saw that happen. I once saw the Commandant of the Marine Corps salute our First Sargent as he was inspecting the troops. First Shirt was wearing his medals, one of which is the Medal of Honor.

Response by TSgt Brent Anderson made Jan 23 at 2018 12:34 AM

2018-01-23T00:34:46-05:00

If the enlisted is wearing the medal of honor

Response by Cpl Scott McCarroll made Jan 23 at 2018 1:19 AM

2018-01-23T01:19:58-05:00

CMH.

Response by PO1 Ed Cook made Jan 23 at 2018 1:06 PM

2018-01-23T13:06:39-05:00

Medal of Honor recipients

Response by TSgt David Wittich made Jan 24 at 2018 1:51 AM

2018-01-24T01:51:32-05:00

Not sure of the second but a holder of the Medal of Honor is always saluted - no matter his/her rank.

Response by PO3 Phyllis Maynard made Jan 24 at 2018 4:17 AM

2018-01-24T04:17:32-05:00

Great question . Now I know the answer SN Greg Wright

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 21 at 2018 10:32 AM

2018-02-21T10:32:07-05:00

Medal of Honor recipients

Response by SrA Joseph Gastrich made Feb 26 at 2018 12:31 PM

2018-02-26T12:31:23-05:00

MoH recipients and the person holding the flag in a parade, funeral, or other ceremony.

Response by COL Jon Lopey made Feb 26 at 2018 2:02 PM

2018-02-26T14:02:35-05:00

Greg - Definitely. The Army Ranger is a Medal of Honor recipient and as a colonel, out of tradition and respect for his incredible and courage achievements and bravery, I would be proud to salute him anytime. There are so few Medal of Honor recipients on active-duty and so few still alive (I believe less than 70) that when we see them we should salute them - They deserve it...! Great question! Jon (MSG Petry retired but he is a legend worthy of a salute and our respect)

Response by 1SG Clifford Barnes made Feb 28 at 2018 10:15 PM

2018-02-28T22:15:41-05:00

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 28 at 2018 10:33 PM

2018-02-28T22:33:53-05:00

Yes, if the enlisted was wearing the Congressional Metal of Honor.

Response by Cpl Geoff Smith made Mar 3 at 2018 8:52 AM

2018-03-03T08:52:09-05:00

If the enlisted person has been awarded the Medal of Honor, officers, (And everyone), salute first

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2018 9:51 PM

2018-03-14T21:51:03-04:00

Medal of Honor is the easy one. Boarding a ship the second? Some crazy navy thing.

Response by CPT Phil Herman made Mar 21 at 2018 2:06 AM

2018-03-21T02:06:37-04:00

Officer will initiate a salute to anyone who has been awarded the Medal Of Honor. I always considered it an honor to salute and receive a salute (except in the field of combat).

Response by CPO John Opatovsky made Apr 1 at 2018 3:31 PM

2018-04-01T15:31:32-04:00

MOH,

Response by LTC Stephen Parke made May 31 at 2018 4:22 PM

2018-05-31T16:22:50-04:00

Officers salute MOH recipients first. (If there is a MOH recipient on your installation and you do not know them by name and face recognition then you are ate up like a soup sandwich.)

Response by SPC Kirk Williams made May 31 at 2018 7:04 PM

2018-05-31T19:04:12-04:00

Yup, Newley minted lieutenants used to do it all the time!

Response by TSgt Scott Artz made Jun 1 at 2018 5:47 AM

2018-06-01T05:47:55-04:00

Yes! Medal of Honor recipients!

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jun 24 at 2018 7:04 AM

2018-06-24T07:04:38-04:00

I served for over 30 active years and had no problem with portraying the respect and discipline associated with being enlisted. We all have options, if an enlisted member does not like the traditions as they are either go to college and become an Officer or get out. Today’s military is changing in ways formerly infathamable, while change is inevitable, moving to fast without time to properly implement the last change can be devastating amongst the ranks and confusing for leadership. What happened to the day whe we followed rules and regulations while supporting and respecting tradition. I still believe all that volunteerbare the best and the brightest, I just believe that the military allows for too many changes, too fast. In any case I respect you all and revere you for taking on the mantle of service, for you are the reason we all have rights. Please respect those who came before you by respecting tradition and holding on to the Core Values that make your Team great. I will get off my tangent! Thank you for your service.

Response by SGT Robert Whatley made Sep 18 at 2018 3:08 PM

2018-09-18T15:08:21-04:00

When the Nco is awarded The Medal Of Honor the officer salutes first

Response by PO2 Jamie Holly made Dec 1 at 2018 6:18 PM

2018-12-01T18:18:11-05:00

If the enlisted is wearing the Congregational Medal of Honor, Officers and all are required to salute first.

Response by LT Terry Lober made Dec 11 at 2018 11:13 AM

2018-12-11T11:13:36-05:00

Any servicemen must salute any serviceman with the MOH. Regardless of rank. The MOH is what earns the salute.

Response by PO2 Bull Halsey made Jan 2 at 2019 1:58 PM

2019-01-02T13:58:59-05:00

Congressional Medal of Honor. Every Time!

Response by SMSgt Tom Burns made Jan 13 at 2019 10:54 PM

2019-01-13T22:54:10-05:00

Officers always Salute Medal of Honor winners first.

Response by MSG David Lambert made Jan 29 at 2019 9:22 AM

2019-01-29T09:22:52-05:00

Yes, officers salute enlisted Medal of Honor recipients when in uniform. To meet and speak with such a Hero is a distinct privilege. They are extraordinary individuals who deserve our respect above all others. God bless and keep all of them and their families safe.

Response by COL Jon Lopey made Feb 22 at 2019 10:01 PM

2019-02-22T22:01:36-05:00

It has been a tradition in the military organizations I have been a part of to salute subordinates that hold the Medal of Honor. Additionally, I have saluted distinguished warriors or former warriors whom, by virtue of their past accomplishments, deserving of special recognition. I never had another officer admonish me for this and I think it is a personal decision based on the situation and the service member involved. To this day, as a civilian law enforcement official, I will still occasionally salute those warranting special recognition, especially senior warriors of past wars. COL L

Response by Sgt Dan Catlin made Mar 25 at 2019 1:06 PM

2019-03-25T13:06:25-04:00

I see the MOH response, and a Navy retiree being piped ashore, but there is one other time. Everyone, regardless of rank should come to attention and, (Naval Services- if covered) should render the proper salute when in the presence of a flag draped coffin.

Response by Cpl Douglas Loven made Apr 28 at 2019 7:50 PM

2019-04-28T19:50:42-04:00

LOL......Well, When I was a CPL I was escorting a PVT around 1 day getting him checked into our unit (from MOS school) He had gotten NJP'ed and demoted....anyway not the point. We are standing outside MWSS-371 HQ when the squadron Sgtmaj walks out, puts on this cover and salutes who he thinks is an officer(he only was able to see a side profile of the pvt in his A's ). I, being a quick thinker, tell the Pvt to return the salute. We don't want the world to see the SgtMaj not get a returned salute, after all it was awkward enough. The SgtMaj was red in the face but the Pvt lived to see another day. SgtMaj: "God damn it I saluted a private."

Response by SPC Donald Donovan made May 5 at 2019 3:25 PM

2019-05-05T15:25:09-04:00

If the enlisted soldier is the recipient of the Medal of Honor then the officer is actually saluting the medal, being worn by the enlisted member.

Response by CPO Nate S. made May 15 at 2019 9:31 PM

2019-05-15T21:31:31-04:00

Medal of Honor recipients is one.

Response by Sgt Peter Schlesiona made Jun 24 at 2019 11:29 AM

2019-06-24T11:29:55-04:00

It is not a requirement, but Marine officers will invariably salute a Medal of Honor recipient and some go a step further by also saluting Navy Cross recipients.

Response by CPL Trey Sivaad made Jul 16 at 2019 12:01 AM

2019-07-16T00:01:37-04:00

If the enlisted has earned a medal of Honor?

Response by LTC Ken Connolly made Jul 22 at 2019 2:49 PM

2019-07-22T14:49:35-04:00

Yes. An MOH recipient.

Response by CDR Ed Goodwin made Sep 12 at 2019 4:03 PM

2019-09-12T16:03:09-04:00

I hope the Admiral in this photo can muster a better salute than is depicted. Actually, neither salute is worthy but I am giving the MOH the benefit of doubt.

Response by PO3 Tom Leibold made Oct 8 at 2019 9:36 PM

2019-10-08T21:36:01-04:00

The Medal...

Response by MAJ Dan Rachal made Oct 30 at 2019 11:17 PM

2019-10-30T23:17:18-04:00

Yes, MH is always saluted first, he deserves the honor.

Response by SFC William Ewing made Dec 4 at 2019 10:47 PM

2019-12-04T22:47:29-05:00

Normally the junior salutes first.
I was taught that as we are brother's in arm's either can salute first and get it returned.
In 1970 as a Pvt2 I received the salute of a OBC class they were marching by and the Lt have a eyes right saluted and I returned it.
WWII CSM the army told me doesn't have anyone above another as citizens we are all the same just different ranks. I retained that for twenty plus years. There was even poster's around base with Washington saying something similar.

Response by SFC Michael W. made Dec 25 at 2019 12:45 PM

2019-12-25T12:45:31-05:00

If he sees that enlisted wearing a Medal of Honor he better whip it out like yesterday!

Response by TSgt Doreen Clark-Blake made Jan 6 at 2020 1:32 PM

2020-01-06T13:32:24-05:00

Yes, 3. 1) A medal of honor recipient.
2) A fallen soldier's gravesite and during his funeral procession.
3) Technically you're not saluting the enlisted person in this last one. If any person is detailed to present the colors, while he is carrying the flag from point A to point B, anyone who passes him or her while in route, shall render a salute.

Response by Lt Col Leslie Bryant made Feb 3 at 2020 1:02 AM

2020-02-03T01:02:58-05:00

Well, probably not. But I have saluted a lot of Tactical Combat Controllers, Rangers, Special Forces and those who have earned Silver Stars and Bronze Stars. Did they expect it? NO. Did I feel I should render it? YES! Did I worry what others thought? NO. Sometimes saluting is just about honoring the person or the act. We should also be proud and in awe of those who excelled in a challenge or went above and beyond the call of duty! Saluting shouldn’t be solely about protocol but honoring others who have sacrificed or stepped up in adversity!

Response by SrA Ray Fosnot made Mar 10 at 2020 2:27 PM

2020-03-10T14:27:58-04:00

I was taught that a Medal of Honor recipient was saluted by all ranks first. Have no idea what the second reason could be.

Response by SP5 Jay Molyneaux made Mar 21 at 2020 3:20 PM

2020-03-21T15:20:46-04:00

I believe all officers salute a MOH winner first

Response by SP5 Jay Molyneaux made Mar 21 at 2020 3:21 PM

2020-03-21T15:21:18-04:00

I believe all officers salute a MOH winner first.

Response by COL Robert James made May 9 at 2020 8:39 AM

2020-05-09T08:39:35-04:00

Yes in award ceremony

Response by SGT William Revis made Jun 19 at 2020 9:39 PM

2020-06-19T21:39:56-04:00

Little blue bar with five stars on it indicating that the individual has received the Congressional Medal of Honor or while he is wearing the Congressional Medal of Honor

Response by 1stLt Ryan Jones made Jul 20 at 2020 5:28 PM

2020-07-20T17:28:24-04:00

Besides MOH?

Sometimes a senior NCO is the senior ‘officer’ of that duty station, and in that instance he would be rendered a salute. Example: Reporting on board to deck ‘officer’, who may be a E6 on some ships

Response by SSgt Stephen Mills made Jul 21 at 2020 12:45 AM

2020-07-21T00:45:29-04:00

I knew an old Nam vet to stand outside the BX at Pendleton wearing his medal, just to get Officers to Salute him.

Response by CWO5 Ray Lee made Aug 6 at 2020 12:39 AM

2020-08-06T00:39:44-04:00

Enlisted with MOH!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 12 at 2020 2:14 AM

2020-12-12T02:14:42-05:00

A medal of honor receiptments officers should salute them as the medal is displayed on his dress uniform.

Response by COL Guy Campion made Dec 15 at 2020 8:04 AM

2020-12-15T08:04:19-05:00

Lets not loose sight of the intent here, we call all agree the Salute is a sign of respect for our traditions, and the military tradition as described by LTC King demonstrates these traditions change over time for various reasons. Regulations require compliance and currently the Salute is rendered up the chain of command from enlisted to officer, junior to senior out of respect for the rank, not necessarily the person depending on how you feel towards the other. I have rendered this courtesy out of the specific order when I felt it was warranted out of respect for the accomplishments of others ir'regardless of what others may have felt. A retired Medal of Honor winner, my long time CSM upon retirement, and I'm sure others would disagree but it felt correct.

Response by PO1 Frank Reiffenstein made Dec 19 at 2020 8:41 AM

2020-12-19T08:41:02-05:00

Absolutely. Requesting permission to come aboard.

Response by CPT William Jones made Jan 1 at 2021 10:28 AM

2021-01-01T10:28:27-05:00

I have a problem or pet peve about salutes and this picture shows it perfectly. I am going to give the Em a complete by as he obviously has some problems with his right arm/hand. However the Navy
Senior officers salute is very poor and many think this looks sharp but it is not. It is a sloppy salute. A proper salute always has the upper arm paralell to the deck and 90 degree angle with the body,upper arm is straight rwith no bends from elbow to fingertip. fingertip should touch the brim of the head gear.

Response by 1SG John Highfill made Jan 10 at 2021 9:12 PM

2021-01-10T21:12:11-05:00

MOH recipient

Response by Capt Jeff S. made Jan 11 at 2021 12:47 PM

2021-01-11T12:47:37-05:00

Medal of Honor winners get saluted by Officers first

Response by SGT George Edward Brown made Jan 30 at 2021 10:44 PM

2021-01-30T22:44:07-05:00

1 IF THEY ARE A MEDAL OF HONOR EARNER.

Response by Cpl Bobbylee Dominguez made Feb 22 at 2021 11:25 AM

2021-02-22T11:25:35-05:00

to me thats like morning greet with your father and waiting for him to say good morning first, lack of respect. what I don't understand is all these issues with saluting, its a less than 30 second gesture of respect. to a CO. just like E2, mircalculy (impossibility). getting promoted to E6, would expect for any one below him to respect his rank. if ever expect to be a lead and be treated as such. act like one lead by example. as you climb the ladder to success appreciate you meet along the way, you may to see them again on your way down, they certainly remember you as were blazing upward.

Response by PO2 Gary Rush made Mar 19 at 2021 10:31 AM

2021-03-19T10:31:06-04:00

As an E-5 I was saluted by an F=14 fighter pilot from the cockpit of the F-14 he had just landed on the flight deck of the USS America after what he saw what I did as CAG ARM/DEARM Crew leader. I also got a big ole' ATTA BOY from AIR BOSS and a letter of commendation for "unparalleled performance of duties" for the same incident that caused the pilot to salute me. I was an ordie.

Response by MSG Frederick Otero made May 12 at 2021 2:58 PM

2021-05-12T14:58:11-04:00

If he comes across a MOH recipient.

Response by SSG Byron Hewett made May 12 at 2021 5:52 PM

2021-05-12T17:52:21-04:00

Any rank with the Medal of Honor

Response by Lt Col Warren Domke made May 15 at 2021 9:17 PM

2021-05-15T21:17:46-04:00

It is appropriate for an officer to initiate a salute with a person of lower rank. Salutes are exchanged as a matter of mutual respect. There is no obligation for any officer to do so--it is done as a gesture of respect. I might choose to initiate a salute when meeting an NCO, partly as a gesture of respect for an older and more experienced member of the service, but also as a simple courtesy. We should always remember that a salute is a greeting between military members and it honors our service and nation more than any individual. And recipients of the Medal of Honor are also entitled to a salute, as has been previously mentioned.

Response by SGT John Graham made Jul 25 at 2021 11:59 AM

2021-07-25T11:59:07-04:00

The recipient of the Medal of Honor is to be saluted. Rightly so!