*Navy specific* I can't find an instruction on this anywhere: Are you required to render a salute to an Officer who is in civilian attire? https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire <div class="images-v2-count-1"><div class="content-picture image-v2-number-1" id="image-107474"> <div class="social_icons social-buttons-on-image"> <a href='https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rallypoint.com%2Fanswers%2Fnavy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire%3Futm_source%3DFacebook%26utm_medium%3Dorganic%26utm_campaign%3DShare%20to%20facebook' target="_blank" class='social-share-button facebook-share-button'><i class="fa fa-facebook-f"></i></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=%2ANavy+specific%2A+I+can%27t+find+an+instruction+on+this+anywhere%3A+Are+you+required+to+render+a+salute+to+an+Officer+who+is+in+civilian+attire%3F&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rallypoint.com%2Fanswers%2Fnavy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire&amp;via=RallyPoint" target="_blank" class="social-share-button twitter-custom-share-button"><i class="fa fa-twitter"></i></a> <a href="mailto:?subject=Check this out on RallyPoint!&body=Hi, I thought you would find this interesting:%0D%0A*Navy specific* I can&#39;t find an instruction on this anywhere: Are you required to render a salute to an Officer who is in civilian attire?%0D%0A %0D%0AHere is the link: https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire" target="_blank" class="social-share-button email-share-button"><i class="fa fa-envelope"></i></a> </div> <a class="fancybox" rel="21ea5eaaf53759782c7aa20c308e1e74" href="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/107/474/for_gallery_v2/6900c1c1.png"><img src="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/107/474/large_v3/6900c1c1.png" alt="6900c1c1" /></a></div></div>&quot;When in doubt - salute.&quot; A Senior Officer (not the CO or XO), has informed us that if a subordinate is in uniform and they see an Officer senior to their rank or pay grade, they are required to salute. Is this true? I cannot find any instruction stating this. <br /><br />*Update: I found the governing document. Sailors in uniform are required to salute out of uniform Officers a super page 123.<br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/documents/united_states_navy_regulations_chapter_12.pdf">http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/documents/united_states_navy_regulations_chapter_12.pdf</a><br /> <div class="pta-link-card answers-template-image type-default"> <div class="pta-link-card-picture"> </div> <div class="pta-link-card-content"> <p class="pta-link-card-title"> <a target="blank" href="http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/documents/united_states_navy_regulations_chapter_12.pdf">united_states_navy_regulations_chapter_12.pdf</a> </p> <p class="pta-link-card-description">&quot;(L,$Jòº¿éBüÊHj*0èHdòºâÊ1HÞ7?HjöadÎ0# ú=úÄF»1âFù0«ã(Ü#dÞÇOûÈ¡0ìÔzÞ.HdXütaF*ÒïxnÝGÍês ºíÈøh:3*a$Fcxä9Ïsh«@s#Fªºãß=Èï#áHÐhJuBpÃÆrö6¡o%3ôÜ: (ÛFMËHl»!sHPP*z0Ã$ØséWTÑQTuM\Ú259a:Ä&quot;ÃÒ3ÜÛÖ&quot;L .ëM&amp;+TÏMVQö{ÏBíL^4Ý&amp;àEdYVÂT!mIsÊÔ§*ªMp9jìÁçoáëáXsfäø=êúxÈP&#39;ÖT?¿îzCfaëä5ãìÒ!!9lòÄ7Ø#3UëëºâÊ9xéu#ö=R:/@fXî_3e^$+2HãjØLÕãÛB9\0SEæ=u(SþªªyâÊößl[ 2âpºVõ(GJÕÄñÒÐÖP·&#39;LÛöÏk_JÃH1#kÔvH@sÚÑ ÁÄñKêÓ5çs Ã=ç6ôïT-DÑ|Ì\Õå¶óÙ¶ãîjëÇNØõ4OºrêSãj/èÂlakÞ¿Yd)pW0ti,3ÀdÏÂeX º2,]Õñ&#39;p p...</p> </div> <div class="clearfix"></div> </div> Fri, 02 Sep 2016 18:20:59 -0400 *Navy specific* I can't find an instruction on this anywhere: Are you required to render a salute to an Officer who is in civilian attire? https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire <div class="images-v2-count-1"><div class="content-picture image-v2-number-1" id="image-107474"> <div class="social_icons social-buttons-on-image"> <a href='https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rallypoint.com%2Fanswers%2Fnavy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire%3Futm_source%3DFacebook%26utm_medium%3Dorganic%26utm_campaign%3DShare%20to%20facebook' target="_blank" class='social-share-button facebook-share-button'><i class="fa fa-facebook-f"></i></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=%2ANavy+specific%2A+I+can%27t+find+an+instruction+on+this+anywhere%3A+Are+you+required+to+render+a+salute+to+an+Officer+who+is+in+civilian+attire%3F&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rallypoint.com%2Fanswers%2Fnavy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire&amp;via=RallyPoint" target="_blank" class="social-share-button twitter-custom-share-button"><i class="fa fa-twitter"></i></a> <a href="mailto:?subject=Check this out on RallyPoint!&body=Hi, I thought you would find this interesting:%0D%0A*Navy specific* I can&#39;t find an instruction on this anywhere: Are you required to render a salute to an Officer who is in civilian attire?%0D%0A %0D%0AHere is the link: https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire" target="_blank" class="social-share-button email-share-button"><i class="fa fa-envelope"></i></a> </div> <a class="fancybox" rel="2ecde9c8f4fc266e7ec4f1cdda221b40" href="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/107/474/for_gallery_v2/6900c1c1.png"><img src="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/107/474/large_v3/6900c1c1.png" alt="6900c1c1" /></a></div></div>&quot;When in doubt - salute.&quot; A Senior Officer (not the CO or XO), has informed us that if a subordinate is in uniform and they see an Officer senior to their rank or pay grade, they are required to salute. Is this true? I cannot find any instruction stating this. <br /><br />*Update: I found the governing document. Sailors in uniform are required to salute out of uniform Officers a super page 123.<br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/documents/united_states_navy_regulations_chapter_12.pdf">http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/documents/united_states_navy_regulations_chapter_12.pdf</a><br /> <div class="pta-link-card answers-template-image type-default"> <div class="pta-link-card-picture"> </div> <div class="pta-link-card-content"> <p class="pta-link-card-title"> <a target="blank" href="http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/documents/united_states_navy_regulations_chapter_12.pdf">united_states_navy_regulations_chapter_12.pdf</a> </p> <p class="pta-link-card-description">&quot;(L,$Jòº¿éBüÊHj*0èHdòºâÊ1HÞ7?HjöadÎ0# ú=úÄF»1âFù0«ã(Ü#dÞÇOûÈ¡0ìÔzÞ.HdXütaF*ÒïxnÝGÍês ºíÈøh:3*a$Fcxä9Ïsh«@s#Fªºãß=Èï#áHÐhJuBpÃÆrö6¡o%3ôÜ: (ÛFMËHl»!sHPP*z0Ã$ØséWTÑQTuM\Ú259a:Ä&quot;ÃÒ3ÜÛÖ&quot;L .ëM&amp;+TÏMVQö{ÏBíL^4Ý&amp;àEdYVÂT!mIsÊÔ§*ªMp9jìÁçoáëáXsfäø=êúxÈP&#39;ÖT?¿îzCfaëä5ãìÒ!!9lòÄ7Ø#3UëëºâÊ9xéu#ö=R:/@fXî_3e^$+2HãjØLÕãÛB9\0SEæ=u(SþªªyâÊößl[ 2âpºVõ(GJÕÄñÒÐÖP·&#39;LÛöÏk_JÃH1#kÔvH@sÚÑ ÁÄñKêÓ5çs Ã=ç6ôïT-DÑ|Ì\Õå¶óÙ¶ãîjëÇNØõ4OºrêSãj/èÂlakÞ¿Yd)pW0ti,3ÀdÏÂeX º2,]Õñ&#39;p p...</p> </div> <div class="clearfix"></div> </div> ENS Private RallyPoint Member Fri, 02 Sep 2016 18:20:59 -0400 2016-09-02T18:20:59-04:00 Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 2 at 2016 6:31 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1858873&urlhash=1858873 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I was in Air Force and Army Reserve. The only people I have ever saluted while they were in civilian cloths are WW-II and Korea vets. Capt Private RallyPoint Member Fri, 02 Sep 2016 18:31:37 -0400 2016-09-02T18:31:37-04:00 Response by LCpl Todd Houston made Sep 2 at 2016 6:47 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1858900&urlhash=1858900 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>In the Corps we were told that if you recognized them as an officer senior to you, yes, render a salute. AND,&quot;when in doubt, whip it out&quot;. I about lost it one day when I saw a boot right out of basic saluting parked cars at the PX with blue stickers. Later we asked him why he went to the PX in uniform. He said he liked saluting because it was like he got to speak first and the officer had to answer to him. The guy was a trip. We all loved him though, he was a good egg. It just took him a little longer than most to understand and get up to speed on most things. LCpl Todd Houston Fri, 02 Sep 2016 18:47:16 -0400 2016-09-02T18:47:16-04:00 Response by SN Greg Wright made Sep 2 at 2016 6:56 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1858924&urlhash=1858924 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I never heard that when I was in, and never did it. But who knows. Better to just whip it out than risk some butthurt asshole chewing you a new one just because he can. Still, consider: you wouldn&#39;t salute if YOU were in civvies. Why would you if s/he was? *Shrug* SN Greg Wright Fri, 02 Sep 2016 18:56:51 -0400 2016-09-02T18:56:51-04:00 Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 2 at 2016 7:10 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1858958&urlhash=1858958 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I&#39;m going with no, but I also rarely ran into officers in civilian clothes while I was in uniform. Only exception was crossing the quarterdeck. SSgt Private RallyPoint Member Fri, 02 Sep 2016 19:10:16 -0400 2016-09-02T19:10:16-04:00 Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 2 at 2016 7:22 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1858986&urlhash=1858986 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I was always under the impression if you know they&#39;re an officer, you salute. <br /><br />When in doubt, whip it out. SFC Private RallyPoint Member Fri, 02 Sep 2016 19:22:25 -0400 2016-09-02T19:22:25-04:00 Response by PO2 Robert Aitchison made Sep 2 at 2016 7:28 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1859000&urlhash=1859000 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>From what I was told no, though I was told you should greet them the same as if you were saluting them (e.g. &quot;Good Morning Sir&quot;) to show that you acknowledge and respect their rank.<br /><br />If they aren&#39;t in uniform they can&#39;t even return the salute, and that would put them in an awkward position. PO2 Robert Aitchison Fri, 02 Sep 2016 19:28:25 -0400 2016-09-02T19:28:25-04:00 Response by Capt Tom Brown made Sep 2 at 2016 8:04 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1859076&urlhash=1859076 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Always did so because you salute the rank and position which is always there no matter what the uniform is or isn&#39;t. Capt Tom Brown Fri, 02 Sep 2016 20:04:06 -0400 2016-09-02T20:04:06-04:00 Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Sep 2 at 2016 8:08 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1859085&urlhash=1859085 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I&#39;ve got a copy of an Ancient Blue Jackets Manual that I traded up for with an Crappy Copy CTO3/2. I&#39;ll bet it&#39;s in there. PO1 William "Chip" Nagel Fri, 02 Sep 2016 20:08:44 -0400 2016-09-02T20:08:44-04:00 Response by Capt Chris McVeigh made Sep 2 at 2016 10:57 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1859536&urlhash=1859536 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>From OPNAVINST 171O.7A<br />&quot;All persons in the naval service shall salute all officers senior to themselves on each occasion<br />of meeting or passing near or when addressing or being addressed by such officers; except that:&quot;<br /><br />Goes on to list exceptions, none of which pertain to the question. Capt Chris McVeigh Fri, 02 Sep 2016 22:57:27 -0400 2016-09-02T22:57:27-04:00 Response by 1SG Frank Rocha made Sep 3 at 2016 10:57 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1860303&urlhash=1860303 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Saluting an officer while that officer is wearing civilian clothes is not required. However, you can if you choose to do so. <br /><br />The reference is: AR 600-25, Para 1-3j &quot;Salutes are not required to be rendered or returned if either the senior or subordinate or both are in civilian attire&quot;<br /><br />Another part of the same section allows for military personnel to be authorized to salute civilians when appropriate. Do not confuse that with military personnel WEARING civilian clothes (or attire). I am certain the other services have a similar policy stating the same. 1SG Frank Rocha Sat, 03 Sep 2016 10:57:58 -0400 2016-09-03T10:57:58-04:00 Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Sep 5 at 2016 7:31 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1864371&urlhash=1864371 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>You render honors if you know the person rates them. That is either through outward appearance (the uniform), or personal knowledge (you know them).<br /><br />If your division officer (someone you personally know) was walking up returning from shore leave in civilian attire as you were departing in uniform, you&#39;d acknowledge them. The same holds true for any other officer. Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS Mon, 05 Sep 2016 07:31:54 -0400 2016-09-05T07:31:54-04:00 Response by SN Timothy Ehrenhaft made Sep 6 at 2016 8:17 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1866747&urlhash=1866747 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Negative - you&#39;re saluting the rank, not the wearer. SN Timothy Ehrenhaft Tue, 06 Sep 2016 08:17:55 -0400 2016-09-06T08:17:55-04:00 Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 6 at 2016 8:40 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1866811&urlhash=1866811 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Well, after reading all the replies perhaps I&#39;m in the wrong, but I don&#39;t think you do. Navy does not salute anyone not wearing cover. If however you are somewhere where everyone else are saluting uncovered officers, then you salute to. When in Rome..... (Think Army base etc.)<br />And finally, while I don&#39;t believe you&#39;re required to, probably not a bad idea. PO1 Private RallyPoint Member Tue, 06 Sep 2016 08:40:52 -0400 2016-09-06T08:40:52-04:00 Response by CPO Scott Smith made Sep 6 at 2016 9:06 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1866873&urlhash=1866873 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I at least greet them if I know them. Years ago I was with one of my juniors at the exchange when I ran into retired VADM James Stockdale in the parking lot. I most certainly saluted but that was also because I knew he had held the Congressional Medal of Honor. CPO Scott Smith Tue, 06 Sep 2016 09:06:58 -0400 2016-09-06T09:06:58-04:00 Response by CAPT Hiram Patterson made Sep 6 at 2016 10:26 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867072&urlhash=1867072 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No, never did it in my 28 1/2 years of Navy time nor do I recall anyone do it. CAPT Hiram Patterson Tue, 06 Sep 2016 10:26:14 -0400 2016-09-06T10:26:14-04:00 Response by CPO Doug Humble made Sep 6 at 2016 10:30 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867079&urlhash=1867079 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I can&#39;t find my Blue Jacket&#39;s Manual but I was taught and always taught my Seamen that if you recognized any officer even if he wasn&#39;t wearing his uniform that he still deserved a salute out of respect (IF you were in uniform.) And if you were not in uniform, it was still required of you to acknowledge him/her and exchange courtesies when passing, e.g., good day sir/ma&#39;am. CPO Doug Humble Tue, 06 Sep 2016 10:30:21 -0400 2016-09-06T10:30:21-04:00 Response by CPO Paul Niehaus made Sep 6 at 2016 10:31 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867088&urlhash=1867088 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>So we render salute when in uniform and are wearing a cover. ( that&#39;s why we don&#39;t salute inside) You do acknowledge their rank if you know it. If they are not in uniform with a uniform cover on then you do not salute. CPO Paul Niehaus Tue, 06 Sep 2016 10:31:34 -0400 2016-09-06T10:31:34-04:00 Response by PO2 Dave Cutsinger made Sep 6 at 2016 10:52 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867179&urlhash=1867179 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No, sailors do not salute while not in uniform, or uncovered while inside. As others have mentioned a formal &quot;Good Morning Sir/Ma&#39;am&quot; is proper protocol. <br /><br />I made the error of only giving the formal greeting and not the salute to an O-3 who had her hands full with groceries in a misguided attempt to spare her the awkwardness of not being able to return the salute. She rightfully so dressed me down I apologized profusely, and rendered the most formal salute I could muster. Glad that&#39;s where it ended. PO2 Dave Cutsinger Tue, 06 Sep 2016 10:52:40 -0400 2016-09-06T10:52:40-04:00 Response by PO2 Marty Sharpe made Sep 6 at 2016 11:10 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867240&urlhash=1867240 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Back in the dark ages when I was active you were required to salute an officer in civilian clothes IF you recognized him. PO2 Marty Sharpe Tue, 06 Sep 2016 11:10:02 -0400 2016-09-06T11:10:02-04:00 Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 6 at 2016 11:13 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867252&urlhash=1867252 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>What I found is the same thing that PO2 Ed C found. I do disagree with the when in doubt salute. A hand salute should be returned by the person you are saluting. If they are in civilian clothes they cannot return the salute. I would greet them cordially and with respect of their rank. If they offer a hand shake, give they a firm hand shake in return. CPO Private RallyPoint Member Tue, 06 Sep 2016 11:13:33 -0400 2016-09-06T11:13:33-04:00 Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 6 at 2016 11:22 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867277&urlhash=1867277 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>You can find it in the BMR.<br /><br />It is a sign of respect for their pay grade. You can get in trouble if you don&#39;t. You are only required to salute an officer once per day, with the exception of your CO and anyone that out ranks your CO, which you have to salute everytime you&#39;re within the regulation distance and must come to attention. PO1 Private RallyPoint Member Tue, 06 Sep 2016 11:22:43 -0400 2016-09-06T11:22:43-04:00 Response by PO1 Tharin Young made Sep 6 at 2016 11:33 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867309&urlhash=1867309 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I believe that it is inappropriate to salute an officer who is not in uniform unless it is part of your duties, and depending on where you are, you may be prohibited from saluting an officer in civies, or from saluting PERIOD. <br />I have been out for awhile now, so don&#39;t take any of this as gospel, but I do recall that saluting was covered exhaustively in the BMR and the BJM. PO1 Tharin Young Tue, 06 Sep 2016 11:33:51 -0400 2016-09-06T11:33:51-04:00 Response by CDR Joel Paine made Sep 6 at 2016 11:54 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867371&urlhash=1867371 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>PO2 Ed C has the reference. I&#39;d caveat it with one thought, though. Know your surroundings; keep AT/FP principles in mind and if they apply, render the appropriate greeting of the day, rather than highlighting an officer to a potential attacker. CDR Joel Paine Tue, 06 Sep 2016 11:54:55 -0400 2016-09-06T11:54:55-04:00 Response by CMDCM OLiver K Franklin made Sep 6 at 2016 11:55 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867373&urlhash=1867373 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>If an enlisted person is in uniform and meets an officer in civilian clothes, the enlisted person is NOT required to render a salute. I remember reading this in regulations years ago. I&#39;ve been retired for over 25 years and regs could have changed. Look in a current BJM, that should explain, saluting, it used to. If you walk up on the CO or XO a verbal greeting is appropriate. AVCM O K Franklin (Ret) CMDCM OLiver K Franklin Tue, 06 Sep 2016 11:55:46 -0400 2016-09-06T11:55:46-04:00 Response by LT Doris Tirone made Sep 6 at 2016 11:57 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867382&urlhash=1867382 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I looked up &quot;Proper Saluting Etiquette in the US Military&quot; and found the following FAQ&#39;s: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-proper-saluting-etiquette-in-the-U-S-military">https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-proper-saluting-etiquette-in-the-U-S-military</a><br /><br />Q12: If a NCO is in civilian attire, does he/she have to salute a uniformed officer?<br />A12: With the exception of a few stories of delusional commanders, no. Anybody dressed in civilian attire should be treated as a civilian. What if the individual really is a civilian who just happens to appear to be military and conforms to all military dress/appearance standards? <div class="pta-link-card answers-template-image type-default"> <div class="pta-link-card-picture"> <img src="https://d26horl2n8pviu.cloudfront.net/link_data_pictures/images/000/099/724/qrc/-images.placeholder_img.png554ff07c4c397863.png?1473177404"> </div> <div class="pta-link-card-content"> <p class="pta-link-card-title"> <a target="blank" href="https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-proper-saluting-etiquette-in-the-U-S-military">What is the proper saluting etiquette in the U.S. military? - Quora</a> </p> <p class="pta-link-card-description"></p> </div> <div class="clearfix"></div> </div> LT Doris Tirone Tue, 06 Sep 2016 11:57:33 -0400 2016-09-06T11:57:33-04:00 Response by CAPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 6 at 2016 12:03 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867401&urlhash=1867401 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>General Order #10: &quot;To salute all officers, and all colors and standards not cased.&quot;. It doesn&#39;t say all officers in uniform. It says all officers. I was taught this as far back as &#39;81 as an enlisted Marine. And if you were not in uniform and the officer came by, you didn&#39;t salute but you still gave an appropriate greeting &quot;Good morning sir&quot;, etc. CAPT Private RallyPoint Member Tue, 06 Sep 2016 12:03:02 -0400 2016-09-06T12:03:02-04:00 Response by LTJG Don Biscoe made Sep 6 at 2016 12:41 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867539&urlhash=1867539 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I spent a lot of time around Brass and only saluted when they were in uniform although did greet them with due respect. As the only enlisted in my outfit I often walked with 03&#39;s, 04&#39;s and 05&#39;s on a base and the senior officer would salute or return salutes on our behalf. LTJG Don Biscoe Tue, 06 Sep 2016 12:41:24 -0400 2016-09-06T12:41:24-04:00 Response by PO1 John Runningwolf made Sep 6 at 2016 1:01 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867612&urlhash=1867612 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I would have to guess you would. Back when I was in the military we didn&#39;t salute any officers. A good way for a sniper to shoot you and the person you saluted. But we were an exception to the case. PO1 John Runningwolf Tue, 06 Sep 2016 13:01:20 -0400 2016-09-06T13:01:20-04:00 Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Sep 6 at 2016 2:01 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867813&urlhash=1867813 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Wrong, you are supposed to bring your hand down to your belly button and do a proper Navel salute, at least that is what us ARMY types were told in the 70&#39;s. CPT Pedro Meza Tue, 06 Sep 2016 14:01:51 -0400 2016-09-06T14:01:51-04:00 Response by MCPO Jeff Gilmet made Sep 6 at 2016 2:11 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867836&urlhash=1867836 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>No, if they are not in Uniform you can say &quot;Good Day Sir&quot; or &quot;Evening Ensign&quot; or not say anything, but you don&#39;t have to salute. Anyone who tells you different is probably an Officer. <br /><br />Sea (land) Story: I walked past a Commander at NOB Norfolk who was walking along, in full uniform, staring at his Blackberry screen, I was in uniform but just strolled by, another officer behind me called out which got the Commanders attention, he called me out for not saluting, I looked at both of them and said &quot;Well if the Commander was watching where he was going I would have saluted, but here, (I then saluted twice) take two they&#39;re small.&quot; My C.O. chewed my butt (guess someone called, ship&#39;s ball cap gave me away and there were only a few Master Chiefs who fit my description) but then he laughed and said the Commander was not setting much of an example. MCPO Jeff Gilmet Tue, 06 Sep 2016 14:11:09 -0400 2016-09-06T14:11:09-04:00 Response by MCPO Steven Smith made Sep 6 at 2016 2:38 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1867938&urlhash=1867938 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I dealt with this on active duty. The answer is no. Generally speaking, we salute (respect/acknowledge) the rank not the individual. Without the uniform this becomes irrelevant. It doesn&#39;t not excuse one from normal courtesy i.e. &quot;Good afternoon Captain Smith&quot; etc. however saluting is not protocol. In fact, in certain situations, particularly when overseas, this could create a security risk in that an officer in civilian clothing on the beach may be safer remaining unidentified and a salute might put a target on them. MCPO Steven Smith Tue, 06 Sep 2016 14:38:40 -0400 2016-09-06T14:38:40-04:00 Response by SSG Drew Cook made Sep 6 at 2016 3:20 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1868042&urlhash=1868042 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>You don&#39;t salute somebody out of uniform unless you want to. It&#39;s a courtesy, not a requirement. SSG Drew Cook Tue, 06 Sep 2016 15:20:16 -0400 2016-09-06T15:20:16-04:00 Response by CWO2 Roger Lamb made Sep 6 at 2016 3:31 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1868055&urlhash=1868055 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>From my BJM &quot;Military salute is used when recognizing officers in civilian dress.&quot; While the officer saluted will respond with &quot;good morning, good afternoon, or good evening&quot; as the case may be the officer does not salute in return. CWO2 Roger Lamb Tue, 06 Sep 2016 15:31:16 -0400 2016-09-06T15:31:16-04:00 Response by SCPO Frank Carson made Sep 6 at 2016 4:05 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1868136&urlhash=1868136 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>True, also the car they are driving in SCPO Frank Carson Tue, 06 Sep 2016 16:05:17 -0400 2016-09-06T16:05:17-04:00 Response by PO1 Stephen McDermott made Sep 6 at 2016 4:31 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1868238&urlhash=1868238 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>On my three boats, if you know they&#39;re an officer, greet them politely by rank or salutation (LT, Mr., etc.). Do Not Salute. It&#39;s embarrassing to both of you. If they&#39;re off the boat, let them be &quot;off the boat&quot;. God knows they got so little time to themselves, let them enjoy it without being reminded of the canoe club. Regs support this. PO1 Stephen McDermott Tue, 06 Sep 2016 16:31:07 -0400 2016-09-06T16:31:07-04:00 Response by CPO Mike Castro made Sep 6 at 2016 4:43 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1868278&urlhash=1868278 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Yes you are unless the type commander says different i.e. Foreign countries force protection issues are the usual reasons not to. It&#39;s in the blue jacket manual CPO Mike Castro Tue, 06 Sep 2016 16:43:34 -0400 2016-09-06T16:43:34-04:00 Response by PO1 Scott Cottrell made Sep 6 at 2016 4:49 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1868298&urlhash=1868298 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>If you know they are an officer then yes, salute. Also depends where you are, in some ports we were told not to salute officers in civilian attire, as it may make them a target. PO1 Scott Cottrell Tue, 06 Sep 2016 16:49:21 -0400 2016-09-06T16:49:21-04:00 Response by CPT Earl George made Sep 6 at 2016 6:26 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1868639&urlhash=1868639 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I remember at Ft Benning in 1971 driving my POV onto the base in civilian clothes. The blue officer sticker on my car bumper got me a salute from the MP on duty. CPT Earl George Tue, 06 Sep 2016 18:26:04 -0400 2016-09-06T18:26:04-04:00 Response by PO1 Thomas Kidwell made Sep 6 at 2016 9:05 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1869122&urlhash=1869122 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>You salute if He is covered. If not covered you should show him or Her the respect due their rank. PO1 Thomas Kidwell Tue, 06 Sep 2016 21:05:43 -0400 2016-09-06T21:05:43-04:00 Response by LCDR Dave Spurlock made Sep 7 at 2016 10:29 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1870320&urlhash=1870320 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>In my 30yr career, this question evolved over time because of the Islamic terrorism threats. I started out as an E-2 made it to E-8; got selected for the LDO program and then made it to O-4. As you know, saluting is a sign of respect however it can also inadvertently reveal someone&#39;s identity thereby putting the Officer who is in civilian clothes, at risk. Of course, if you are in an area where there is danger, you wouldn&#39;t be in uniform either. So to sum that craziness up, the way I was taught was that you can acknowledge the Officer and pay the respects by simply stopping and standing kind of at attention and saying something like &quot;Good afternoon Sir&quot; then &quot;By your leave Sir&quot;. I said kind of at attention because again, you could inadvertently reveal his identity and put him/her at risk. Even on base where the bad guys are not present, there may be an unknown reason why the Officer is in civies and not in uniform. Even if it is simply his day off, the fact that you stopped walking, came to pretty much at attention and greeted him as an Officer by saying &quot;Sir&quot; pays him the respect protocol requires. Also, the &quot;By your leave, Sir&quot; is the proper protocol when passing closely by an Officer. Also, depending on the location and potential risk, if you are on the other side of the street, you wouldn&#39;t want to scream out your respectful words. I know this all sounds confusing but the joist of it is that if you pay your respects, you should be good to go when the Officer is in cities. LCDR Dave Spurlock Wed, 07 Sep 2016 10:29:33 -0400 2016-09-07T10:29:33-04:00 Response by PO1 Dennis Ratcliffe made Sep 7 at 2016 1:13 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1870772&urlhash=1870772 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>yes PO1 Dennis Ratcliffe Wed, 07 Sep 2016 13:13:32 -0400 2016-09-07T13:13:32-04:00 Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 8 at 2016 1:17 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1873906&urlhash=1873906 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Check a copy of the Navy BMR, Feb 2002, it give the specifics about saluting an officer in civilian clothes. here it is from Chapter 9 of the BMR.<br />In Civilian Clothes<br />If you are in uniform and recognize an officer in<br />civilian clothes, you should initiate the proper greeting<br />and salute. In time of war, however, an officer not in<br />uniform may be deliberately avoiding disclosure of<br />his/her identity, so you should be cautious in following<br />the normal peacetime rule. CPO Private RallyPoint Member Thu, 08 Sep 2016 13:17:16 -0400 2016-09-08T13:17:16-04:00 Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2016 5:34 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=1881470&urlhash=1881470 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>You salute if, and only if, you are aware they are a superior officer. A small caviot to that, Unless it is clearly a flag officers vehicle or the base CO it is not expected that you will salute an officer who is driving by since odds are you won&#39;t spot the sticker, which they are moving away from anyhow. PO2 Private RallyPoint Member Sun, 11 Sep 2016 05:34:12 -0400 2016-09-11T05:34:12-04:00 Response by SSgt Dwight Deatherage made May 13 at 2017 12:26 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=2566610&urlhash=2566610 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>One day I had travelled over a hundred miles away to an air show. There were lots of folks there to see the Thunderbirds. While walking along with a couple of friends from another unit (we all worked in the same control tower) I heard someone calling my name. It was the CO of the unit I was attached to. We were all wearing civvies. I really didn&#39;t know how to react or introduce my companions. He took the lead, by introducing his wife. He had flown in to the airport where we were at, and he wanted to show me a Cessna 150 he had just bought. SSgt Dwight Deatherage Sat, 13 May 2017 12:26:21 -0400 2017-05-13T12:26:21-04:00 Response by PO1 Richard Cormier made Dec 15 at 2020 12:32 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=6582190&urlhash=6582190 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>If it moves, Salute it. If it doesn&#39;t move, paint or polish it. If it is being taken care of, grab a cup of coffee and &quot;Scuttlebutt&quot; PO1 Richard Cormier Tue, 15 Dec 2020 12:32:33 -0500 2020-12-15T12:32:33-05:00 Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2021 12:20 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=6707597&urlhash=6707597 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>There are conditions where you don&#39;t salute officers in civvies... however in most cases if you recognize the officer and you are in uniform, you render a salute. With that being said, it is a must you know your chain of command, even your COs chain of command above them. Not saluting a Commodore or Admiral will cause my knife hand to sharpen and training to commence. MCPO Private RallyPoint Member Sun, 31 Jan 2021 00:20:05 -0500 2021-01-31T00:20:05-05:00 Response by SSG Stacy Carter made Jun 27 at 2021 5:13 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=7072042&urlhash=7072042 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Here is an easy rule of thumb. If you are in uniform and you know who the officer is just salute give the greeting of the day and carry on with your day. If you are in civilian attire you are not required to salute but may, give the greeting of the day and move out. SSG Stacy Carter Sun, 27 Jun 2021 05:13:14 -0400 2021-06-27T05:13:14-04:00 Response by Sgt James Garis made Sep 21 at 2021 9:34 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=7287602&urlhash=7287602 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>&quot;Navy Specific&quot; NOPE Your initial trainers have failed you (and whoever is in charge of you now). If they are an Officer that you recognize and you are in uniform (or out) you salute (in uniform) and render the proper greeting of the day (morning, afternoon, evening). Very simple. Sgt James Garis Tue, 21 Sep 2021 21:34:21 -0400 2021-09-21T21:34:21-04:00 Response by MSG Thomas Currie made Dec 2 at 2021 10:24 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=7401969&urlhash=7401969 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>My first thought was &quot;How could anyone become a CPO without having learned this?&quot; but then I noticed that the poster is NOT a CPO but simply a NROTC middy posing as a CPO on RallyPoint. I find it had to believe that he even holds middy rank without having learned this much as it is certainly covered in the first year of Naval Science classes.<br /><br />Yes, you are required to salute any officer you recognize. You don&#39;t need to salute random strangers who you don&#39;t recognize.<br /><br />By now you have either been commissioned or (hopefully) flunked out of NROTC. If you stuck it out you should be a LTJG by now, hopefully the sailors in your department know more about military courtesy that you did when you posted this. MSG Thomas Currie Thu, 02 Dec 2021 22:24:01 -0500 2021-12-02T22:24:01-05:00 Response by PO2 Mike Vignapiano made Jan 17 at 2022 1:14 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=7480121&urlhash=7480121 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>If you know that the person is an officer then yes, you are required to salute. If you know the person personally, most will not require it. I knew my Division &amp; Department Officers personally, by first names. The first time I went to salute them when they were incivilian attire, they both waved me off and told me I never had to do so unless others from my department were present. PO2 Mike Vignapiano Mon, 17 Jan 2022 13:14:38 -0500 2022-01-17T13:14:38-05:00 Response by PO1 Frank Payton made Jan 28 at 2022 4:18 PM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=7501376&urlhash=7501376 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Not necessarily &quot;out of uniform&quot; related, but salutes could be a pain for the officers. When we would see our own JOs coming down the pier, we&#39;d break our group into single file with about 10 feet or so between us. Then one at a time (sometimes 10 or 12 of us), we&#39;d render the proper salute to our beloved JOs. Good thing they loved us. Sub crews are a tight knit group, officers and enlisted. PO1 Frank Payton Fri, 28 Jan 2022 16:18:24 -0500 2022-01-28T16:18:24-05:00 Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 28 at 2022 8:04 AM https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/navy-specific-i-can-t-find-an-instruction-on-this-anywhere-are-you-required-to-render-a-salute-to-an-officer-who-is-in-civilian-attire?n=7548003&urlhash=7548003 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>A salute is a way to render a respectable &quot;hello&quot;. The return salute sends that respect right back at you. If you know the officer, it just shows respect to render a salute even if in civvies. Especially if it&#39;s a General or Flag Officer Col Private RallyPoint Member Mon, 28 Feb 2022 08:04:57 -0500 2022-02-28T08:04:57-05:00 2016-09-02T18:20:59-04:00