Posted on May 6, 2015
Saluting officers in civilian clothing when coming onto an AF base: Should it be done?
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Should AF security personnel at the base entrance salute officers that are in civilian clothing when they enter the base? And should the officer return the salute? I've asked multiple senior enlisted soldiers and multiple field grade officers this question with mixed results.
Air Force
Officer
Saluting
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 17
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Well I believe the regulation states you salute when you recognize the person as an officer. A little humor here. I had a roommate fresh out of basic, 2900 miles away from home and just turned 18. He had a chance to go to the PX, (first time at the first duty station) and wanted me to go but I was putting things away, tired and didn't feel like going. He was walking on the sidewalk, and an officer walked by. He knew it was an officer, but being new there he had no idea who he was. (they were both in uniform)The officer stopped him and demanded to know why he didn't salute him. Well officer, I'm new here and I know the regulation says to salute when you recognize an officer, but I've never seen you before. The officer actually laughed, and explained to him the difference in the mindset of how it is supposed to be recognize the person as being an officer, not that you personally know him. I don't believe he forgot that lesson..
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MAJ Pete Joplin
Great story!
Here's mine: Two Cadet CPTS (three little round pips) walking a narrow sidewalk at Ft. Lewis. A 2LT is approaching and as my colleague (prior service enlisted) falls in behind me, I say, "let's give him our very best." As we pass, I render a snappy and walk a few steps and I hear, "hold on right there!"
It appears my buddy didn't salute!
I immediately tell the 2LT that I saluted for the both of us because I was senior (we're both Cadet CPTs remember?). The 2LT looks confused, looks at both of our hats, and says, "how can that be?" Without a split second's delay, I informed that the 2LT that I was "promotable" (a status that has never existed in the history of ROTC).
We laughed for a long time and even our Cadre enjoyed the story.
Here's mine: Two Cadet CPTS (three little round pips) walking a narrow sidewalk at Ft. Lewis. A 2LT is approaching and as my colleague (prior service enlisted) falls in behind me, I say, "let's give him our very best." As we pass, I render a snappy and walk a few steps and I hear, "hold on right there!"
It appears my buddy didn't salute!
I immediately tell the 2LT that I saluted for the both of us because I was senior (we're both Cadet CPTs remember?). The 2LT looks confused, looks at both of our hats, and says, "how can that be?" Without a split second's delay, I informed that the 2LT that I was "promotable" (a status that has never existed in the history of ROTC).
We laughed for a long time and even our Cadre enjoyed the story.
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Yes.
If there is a Blue Decal on the car, or you see a Geneva Convention Card which identifies the Officer, you render appropriate greetings.
USMC/USN/USCG - 10. To salute all officers and all colors and standards not cased.
USA - 7. Guards on post salute individuals as prescribed in AR 600-25.
USAF - Does not specifically prescribe saluting as part of General Orders.
When a salute is rendered, it is a courtesy to respond. A "Carry on," Nod, "Thank you," or a Salute is appropriate at the officers discretion.
If there is a Blue Decal on the car, or you see a Geneva Convention Card which identifies the Officer, you render appropriate greetings.
USMC/USN/USCG - 10. To salute all officers and all colors and standards not cased.
USA - 7. Guards on post salute individuals as prescribed in AR 600-25.
USAF - Does not specifically prescribe saluting as part of General Orders.
When a salute is rendered, it is a courtesy to respond. A "Carry on," Nod, "Thank you," or a Salute is appropriate at the officers discretion.
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I am a retiree and I get saluted when I drive through the gate at a local USAF base for the monthly commissary trip. I look at the Airman, salute smartly in return (I hate doing this seated) and say something like "Climb to Glory" which confuses them. I think it is a good tradition and a high standard.
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