What is your funniest salute story?

2014-06-06T10:50:23-04:00

What is the funniest salute story that you have?

Mine was when I was in my first command and I had two PFCs that I was advancing to SPC. They went to salute me as I was ordering them to fall back into formation one was so nervous she saluted me with her left hand. Then quickly corrected herself.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2014 10:52 AM

2014-06-06T10:52:07-04:00

I was saluted as a SPC many times on Fort Riley. Apparently the sham shield looks like an Oak Leaf from a distance.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2014 11:25 AM

2014-06-06T11:25:13-04:00

One day walking onto base at (formerly) Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, I saw a warrant officer walking towards me. As he approached I was wondering when the hell this guy was going to salute. Then, when he was a few steps away, I realized that what I thought were 3 little squares were actually 3 little stars. About poked my eye out trying to quickly get my hand up.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2014 3:48 PM

2014-06-06T15:48:59-04:00

It was after many long exhasting days as a CH-47D Flight Engineer during the Katrina aid; me and my fellow crew mwmber (another E6) was looking for a bathroom inside a building, we saw a SPC asleep in a chair so we woke her up to ask her for bathroom locations. She blinked a couple of times, dug her fists in her eyes to clear the sleepy out, then her eyes got real big as she jumped up to attention with a crisp sallute and stated loudly she did not know where the bathrooms were. My buddy and I looked at eachother, returned her salute (so she didnt feel silly) and left. We realized shortly after that she wasnt familiar with our green pickle suite (one piece flight suite) and the units version of the name tape, it was the normal information with the background of the Texas flag. She saw the "Lone Star" and thought we were Brigadier General's.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2014 6:54 PM

2014-06-06T18:54:57-04:00

I once knew of a LT that was so confused as to whether a 2LT had to salute a 1LT or not!

----------------------------------------THE END----------------------------------------

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2014 7:21 PM

2014-06-06T19:21:16-04:00

In my early years, we had to salute officers with a motto (usually the company motto). For a long time my buddies and I would sound off with a golf club to see if we would get caught. 4 wood sounds like FT Hood said fast and if you say it right you can get away with a 9 iron pretty easy. After getting away with the clubs and even the drivers, I pressed my luck with a LT one day and got caught sounding off with "putter sir!". The LT took me to speak with my 1SG. After the LT left my 1SG said that he was surprised that we got as far as we did. He laughed until he almost cried. Thankfully I didn't get more than a but chewing out of it.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2014 7:57 PM

2014-06-06T19:57:31-04:00

When I was a 1LT, my unit went to Germany for Annual Training. As my friend and I went thru customs, the agents asked what we were doing in Germany. We proceeded to explain we were Army Reserve Solider on AT and then had to explain what a Reserve Soldier was since they did not have an Army Reserve in Germany at the time. When we got done, he understood Army Reserve as "Holiday Solider."

Response by CPT Jacob Swartout made Jun 7 at 2014 4:10 PM

2014-06-07T16:10:09-04:00

One soldier had an ice cream cone during lunch and forgot to put it in his left hand. He saluted the CPT and the ice cream squished all over his forehead and glasses. Everyone around just laughed to include the poor guy that day.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2014 4:23 PM

2014-06-07T16:23:57-04:00

My last assignment was on a small Air Force base. There were only 40 Army personnel on the entire base and for anyone that didn't know, AF is the only service without warrant officers. It wasn't uncommon for me to be walking from my office to the DFAC (about 1/2 mile walk) to pass some AF guy. I would get anywhere from no salute, to a salute, to the most common the guy staring at my rank really close trying to figure out what the hell I was wearing on my beret moving their right arm up and down debating if they should salute or not. Best time was when I had an AF COL (O6) salute me as I was approaching. I know what we all say about making the on the spot correction (and on any army base I would) but after my first few weeks, there I just went with it because I would never get a chance to eat if I stopped ever person that failed to salute.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2014 4:55 PM

2014-06-07T16:55:43-04:00

My tech school was at Vandenberg. When we were released for lunch we Airmen would arrive at the DFAC en masse. If we spotted a 2nd Lt exiting the DFAC we would line up single file so they could walk through a saluting gauntlet.

Response by Cpl Robert Clark made Jun 10 at 2014 11:51 AM

2014-06-10T11:51:25-04:00

I was leaving Subic Bay after crossing $h!t river and the Marine guard saw scrambled eggs on my San Miguel cap. He snapped to and rendered a smart salute. I responded with a heartfelt, "Carry On, Marine" and hoped he wasn't there when I returned... I was a LCpl then... Magsaysay Drive, here I come!

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2014 12:06 PM

2014-06-10T12:06:24-04:00

My funniest salute story is one that happened very recently, and continues to happen nearly every day. I work in a joint environment, all branches of the military are represented. I come into work around 1400 as other people are leaving, and a large number of them are military, and not in the Army. I've had numerous E-5s, and even one E-8 salute me because they've mistaken my SPC rank for LTC rank. Really awkward when someone double your paygrade salutes you.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2014 12:26 PM

2014-06-10T12:26:31-04:00

A LTC was handing out coins and after my buddy grabbed the coin with his right hand, he followed a salute with his left hand. But, after quickly putting the coin away, he switched hands and saluted with the right. To this day we still get on him for that

Response by SPC Christopher Smith made Jun 10 at 2014 2:29 PM

2014-06-10T14:29:05-04:00

I've got a couple,

First: I was on my way to an appointment walking down the street by myself, down the road is an older guy kind of walking slow. The closer I get to him I can't really make out his rank until I was almost chin to chest, a 1 Star, damn near broke my arm trying ot pull up the salute. He laughed and told me to continue on. Guess it happened to him more than once that day.

Second: I'm accompanying a PFC to an appointment, as we are coming back to the comapny area I notice a Major walking towards us, I remind him to salute. Whatever they gave him at that appointment must have been good, because he salutes with his left hand proudly as we are walking. The Major calls us back, and had to ask us if he was wrong because he was baffled by the situation. Haha, so happy we didn't die that day.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2014 3:19 PM

2014-06-10T15:19:41-04:00

I was conducting a ruckmarch with my former LT (who was previously an E7) when he started to get angry and said "SGT Jackson, the next time a Soldier passes by and doesn't render a salute I am going to scuff you up for not making on the spot corrections!!!" I grinned and said "Well sir they probably would salute if you weren't wearing a sterile uniform" He looked down at his uniform and said "well shit" LMAO

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2014 9:55 PM

2014-06-18T21:55:29-04:00

When i was prior enlisted out of nuke school, we had a Chinese officer walking out of the building. I walked passed him and rendered the proper salute. He stopped looked and me smiled and rendered some type of backwards hand salute in the middle of the cover and walked off.

Response by CW2 Ernest Krutzsch made Jul 9 at 2014 3:28 PM

2014-07-09T15:28:12-04:00

I was a SGT in the Infantry at Fort Campbell, KY,my brother in law was graduating from boot camp at Great Lakes Naval Center. I attended his graduation, and every place I went Sailors were saluting me, I returned each one, and could not for the life of me figure out what was going on..Well after he graduated I found out the the Blue Infantry Cord I was wearing, meant something totally different to them, it was Assistant Company Commander or some such thing, so they saluted! ..I think they did away with the blue cord in the 80's

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 11 at 2014 7:42 PM

2014-07-11T19:42:28-04:00

I have several stories from over the years but the two best ones for me was one during AIT and another just last year with my former commander.

Back in 1992 (yes, I know I'm old), I was attending AIT at Fort Lee. After we had been released for the day, I decided to walk to the PX, which is now the PXtra for those who are familiar with Lee. As I was walking on the sidewalk, I noticed a soldier approaching me with what looked to be 1LT rank. As we got closer to each other, I noticed two little black squares on his collar. I was confused at this point since I was still a fairly new soldier and didn't quite understand the Warrant Officer ranks. What threw me off too was whether I should salute or not. I truly did not know. Needless to say, I just walked on by the Warrant. Of course he promptly stopped me and, to my surprise which is why I remember the incident, politely corrected my inaction. He was very professional and definitely understanding of my reticence to salute. I saluted him and went on my way.

The second incident was in Yongsan Korea last year. My commander and I left the unit at the same time one evening. I happen to live about a mile down the road and walked back and forth every day. My CO lived near the commissary about 2 miles away but today he had to walk home. We decided to walk together until I had to split off to get to my place. As we were walking along, a group of about 6 soldiers were approaching us from the opposite direction. We could tell from their demeanor they were new not only to Korea but to the Army as well. We got close enough for them to acknowledge my CO but they went right on by. I immediately stopped, told my CO "just a minute", turned around (they were barely a couple steps past us), and educated the young soldiers in proper military customs and courtesies. I respectfully asked my CO to join us and the soldiers rendered the salute to my CO, apologizing at the same time. I was a bit frustrated at the lack of discipline but I also wasn't angry at the soldiers especially since they realized their error and made the proper correction.

Response by TSgt William Bennett made Jul 14 at 2014 11:57 AM

2014-07-14T11:57:01-04:00

I was working with an Army Hunter UAV unit in Macedonia as an Air Force support guy on night shifts. My NCOIC and I would often eat "dinner" at 0700 in our PT gear and would then trek back to the barracks to get some shut-eye before our afternoon sorties.

The Iron Dukes had recently joined the camp, and we noticed soldiers shouting "IRON" as they saluted officers with the officer then responding "Dukes!"

As my NCOIC and I trekked back after a particularly tasty Brown & Root prepared omelet and french toast combo, we passed a CPT heading into chow. We rendered the appropriate salute to which the CPT saluted and shouted "DUKES!" to which I responded without skipping a beat, "Of HAZARD!"

I was protected by my Air Force PT gear as the CPT tried to figure out what I said and if he could/should ream me out, and we moved on about our business.

Response by SSG Daniel Miller made Jul 14 at 2014 3:06 PM

2014-07-14T15:06:25-04:00

My first deployment (as a PFC/SPC), our Battery XO would go out of his way to avoid Soldiers he knew while on the way to the gym, PX, etc. to avoid having to salute them (he was in PTs and otherwise unrecognizable as an officer). My section and I caught him off guard one day, lined up about 10 paces apart, in single file. I'm positive I heard him spouting profanities after about the 3rd guy. I'm almost sure he dug a tunnel from his CHU to the gym after that.

Response by PO3 John Jeter made Jul 14 at 2014 9:45 PM

2014-07-14T21:45:47-04:00

I don't know if it's still true now, but when I served in the Navy in the mid to late 70's, saluting with the left hand was allowed if the right hand was occupied with a task or immobilized by injury.

Response by SSG Waldo Yamada made Jul 22 at 2014 5:26 PM

2014-07-22T17:26:36-04:00

I was a recruit at bootcamp in Fort Leonardwood. We were on pass that day and me and my battle where walking back to the barracks. We saw a personnel in uniform and his beret flash was shimmering in the light so bright I could see it from a mile away. What I didn't know was that this permanent party was just a specialist strolling through the quad and headed towards somewhere. So, to cut it short, I basically anticipated and assume he was an officer so I snapped too and rendered the salute. Him and my battle were both laughing as I saw his collar on his BDU was plainly a SPC rank.

Another one.... my first duty station in Fort Lewis, I was walking towards the motorpool and I didn't have a POV back then. Before that I made swift with my breakfast at the DFAC and began my 15 min journey to the motorpool in WA weather. I knew my CO had a Volkswagon car and blue decals would ID officers so, when I saw her headed from the Motor Pool and passing my way I did the only funniest thing but stopped stood at attention and rendered the salute. I saw a smirk on her face and I realized that only field grades were required to be saluted in a marked vehicle with a field grade rank license plate.

Response by PO3 John Jeter made Jul 23 at 2014 8:14 PM

2014-07-23T20:14:44-04:00

A high school friend of mine was standing Petty Officer of the Watch on the USS Pigeon in San Diego. (Pigeon carried the submarine rescue vehicle) For those who aren't familiar with Navy customs, when the Commanding Officer is observed approaching his vessel, the following is announced over the loudspeaker system throughout the ship. First the bell is rung four times then "(The Name of the ship) arriving!" as he steps onto the quarterdeck the bell is rung one time to denote his actual arrival. Tim had a perverse type of humor so as the Captain approached he rang the bell and passed the word "Pigeon, Arriving!" as the Captain stepped onto the quarterdeck Tim snatched off his ball cap and flapped it violently next to the microphone. It sounded exactly like a bird flapping it's wings. Then Tim rang the last bell. The entire ship busted up laughing (including the Captain). However, it only took 30 minutes to reduce Tim from E4 to E2.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 23 at 2014 10:09 PM

2014-07-23T22:09:44-04:00

So there was a 2LT and a 1LT....

Response by Sgt Joel "Mike" Dunlap made Jul 24 at 2014 1:36 PM

2014-07-24T13:36:21-04:00

I was so excited to see my Father after being on the west coast. I had only been in the Corps for 1 year and a half. I went out for drinks with some friends and my father was going to meet us at the local pub.. We got there a few hours early then my father showed up. Captain Dunlap "my Father" thought it would be funny to yell Captain on deck!! I jumped to my feet knocking over my chair and spilling my beer, went to salute "with out cover" and stuck my thumb in my eye.. It hurt bad eyes watering my Father says well I knew you where glad to see me but crying son was not necessary!!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2014 11:22 PM

2014-07-26T23:22:46-04:00

When I was a brand new private back in the day I was assigned to 1st AD at Fort Riley. Soon after I was given the opportunity to volunteer to deploy as a mid tour replacement for a 4th BCT, 1st ID battalion. I was transferred to 4th BCTs Rear D for a couple weeks of pre deployment training/paperwork/SRP and therefore had to change out the DUI on my beret.

The DUI while assigned there was the 1st ID DUI which for those that don't know can be described as a tall gold oval. At a quick glance it can vaguely look like a 2LT bar, which is obviously what happened. I was leaving a barracks building and was quickly putting my beret on when a couple of SGTs passed by me. They mistook my DUI for 2LT rank and saluted me, and me being a dumb ass brand new PFC returned their salute partly by reflex partly by not know what the hell was going on.

It did not take long for the SGTs to realize their mistake and even less time for me to find myself having a very bad day.

Response by PO3 John Jeter made Jul 27 at 2014 3:12 AM

2014-07-27T03:12:31-04:00

This has been around for a bit, but it still rates a grin!
http://youtu.be/ajq8eag4Mvc

Navy Ship vs. Lighthouse

Who will win?

Response by PO3 John Jeter made Jul 27 at 2014 9:13 PM

2014-07-27T21:13:18-04:00

My ship held a reception for various dignitaries in Port Kembla, Australia. As messenger of the watch, I was detailed to stand at the foot of the gangway to greet the guests and assist if necessary. A small bus pulled up about fifty feet away and four women came out and headed our way. They were in Australian Navy uniforms and I didn't know the first thing about their rank insignas. Deciding to err on the side of caution, I popped tall and delivered the best salute I could. The leading lady almost fell off the gangway steps trying to return the salute and the giggles from the rest confirmed my suspicion that they were enlisted. The CPO who was standing Officer Of The Deck came down a few minutes later and noted we didn't need a night light for the gangway, my face put rudolphs nose to shame...... Then he grinned and added, "I didn't know either! Better you than me!"

Response by SSG Robert Pierce made Jul 27 at 2014 9:45 PM

2014-07-27T21:45:23-04:00

I remember being the promotion board recorder and saw an E5 competing for E6 flawlessly answer all questions from each board member. Then when the CSM dismissed the NCO from the board he stood up, stepped forward and saluted the CSM with his left hand. That's one I will never forget.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Aug 4 at 2014 9:22 AM

2014-08-04T09:22:59-04:00

I was a fairly new SPC, walking from my Company AO after exchanging my linens one day, with both arms full of sheets and blankets and walked right past a 1LT who was quite offended that I didn't salute. When he finished his diatribe on customs & courtesies, I dropped the blankets and rendered a crisp salute. He turned on his heel and started walking away without returning it, so I said "oh, hell no, SIR." and followed him with the salute held until he returned it.

Response by SGT Jacob Samuels-Kalow made Aug 14 at 2014 12:02 PM

2014-08-14T12:02:35-04:00

As a SPC, early one morning outside the DFAC I got saluted by a SSG. I responded with "Good Morning, sergeant" He did a quick double take, realized I was only a SPC and said "Oh god, I'm still drunk - let me buy you some coffee before anyone realizes"

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 3 at 2014 4:59 PM

2014-09-03T16:59:43-04:00

Kadena AFB, Okinawa, Japan, mid-2008. Hot, humid, muggy, yucky. I'm thirsty, sweaty, smelly, and wearing a 40 lb bulletproof vest at a busy checkpoint (Gate 1 for those who know what I'm talking about).

A string of officers rolled by all of whom I saluted. An Army SSG along with 3 other troops in the car wearing the old Alphas with shiny ranks showed me his ID, and I instinctually threw my right hand up.

They all started scrambling, driver even checked his brakes and almost got rear-ended. All I could do is give them a sour 'my bad' look because I was just way too exhausted to do anything else

Response by LTC Paul Heinlein made Sep 3 at 2014 5:05 PM

2014-09-03T17:05:06-04:00

When I was a Captain, I was walking along with one of my Senior NCOs. As we were walking, in the distance we saw a Major headed our way. The NCO did not particularly care for this Major, so he asked me to salute the Major (along with him) with our left hands to see if the Major would notice...anyhow, we passed the Major giving him the greeting of the day and saluting him with our left hands, and the Major just returned the salute and the greeting and went on his way...without a further word. Anyhow, after taking a few more steps, the NCO says "Sir, lets go track down the Major and tell him what we did and that he did not even have a clue!". I said "Sergeant, accept your victory that we got one over on the Major and file it away in your library of stories for when you are at the NCO club. But, lets not mess with the Hornets Nest and risk getting stung when we don't have to!"....and thus another example of the difference between Officers and NCOs.

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Sep 3 at 2014 5:36 PM

2014-09-03T17:36:54-04:00

As a young Spc4, I was coming out of the PX...carrying the bag in my right hand....suddenlya butter bar appears out of nowhere (came around a blind corner of a building). I didn't have time to change the bag so I popped up a proper Left hand salute....he saluted back....looking puzzled because he KNEW something wasn't right, but couldn't figure out what it was..... I kept going.

After I got my commission, I had one young airman that was on the other side of the street....she came to my side of the street just to make me salute... She popped up her salute, I knew what she was doing, so I let her hold it there for a bit while I talked about the weather and such.....she tried to put it down once.... I told her I had not released it yet. Eventaully I returned the salute. She thought that was pretty cleaver and laughed about it after that.

One other time, I had people try to do the 5-10 pace things on me.... I saw it coming. I stopped, made them form up into a small formation, then saluted once. I caught them pretty much off guard, so it worked.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Sep 21 at 2014 2:11 AM

2014-09-21T02:11:46-04:00

We had a guy get sooooo mentally tied up with salute....receive paper in left hand....shake with right hand.....and salute again. It was almost like "Who's On First".

Response by SPC David S. made Sep 21 at 2014 2:16 AM

2014-09-21T02:16:13-04:00

Not a salute but close enough. I was in an honor guard for President Benjamin Harrison down in Indianapolis while I was at the physical fitness school.at Ft Benjamin Harrison. We where on a steep grade at his grave site and when I snapped to attention I damn near kicked out my planted leg causing a very entertaining spectacle as I fought to maintain my balance.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Sep 21 at 2014 7:15 PM

2014-09-21T19:15:00-04:00

This one is definitely up there for me.
http://youtu.be/LowVhCfLm68

Hold the Elevator | Robot Chicken | Adult Swim

Someone should really tell Palpatine about the Death Star's freight elevator, no one ever uses that thing. Watch Full Episodes on adultswim.com: http://asw.i...

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Sep 22 at 2014 6:19 PM

2014-09-22T18:19:44-04:00

Every now and again on one of my very few forays into Battalion from the far, far, reaches of the deep boonies, as nasty as I looked, I would pop off one of the smartest salutes I could, to some new officer......, left handed. They would always half assed return the salute but you could see it in their eyes and it would take a few steps to register. Never got called out on this, I wonder why?

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Sep 22 at 2014 6:29 PM

2014-09-22T18:29:52-04:00

While in boot camp, after returning from the range, while others had mess duty, I was cleaning 110 m14s in a small locker. Because of the fumes, one of my DIs took pity on me and told me "when you need a break take a bucket and go out on the parade deck hand have your own smoking circle" This worked out great as ridiculess as it sounds.
Whenever I went for a smoke, He would hide back in a hallway nearby and ambush new phase one recruits, running out all crazy and screaming "You snot-rags better fuckin salute that officer!!!" The first time he did it I thought he was yelling at me, but there was no one around but a couple of E1s who just craped their pants. He got quite a giggle out of this a few times and it was all I could do to keep a serious face.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2014 4:34 PM

2014-09-23T16:34:39-04:00

Found this today on FB but link is from Instagram. Many of the Marines I served with at HMX-1 are up-in-arms about this video, which shows CIC saluting with a cup of coffee... in his saluting hand. I on the other hand simply found it humorous... After serving 3 years with Bush Sr. and 6 mo. of Clinton, my expectations were suitably altered. I now expect nothing more or less.

http://instagram.com/p/tS-kCoD9l2/

Washington Free Beacon on Instagram: “A multitasking president? Check out Obama's salute. #wow...

“A multitasking president? Check out Obama's salute. #wow #coffeeinhand #yopo #freebeacon”

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 9:11 PM

2014-10-13T21:11:01-04:00

I spent some time at Eglin AFB, Florida. Me and my buddy (both PFCs) are coming through the gate in his POV. We are both in uniform. Hand the gate guard (an AF E-4) our ID's, he scans them, and promptly salutes both of us. Not sure how he determined we were officers given that we had PFC on our chests, and our ID's clearly said E-3/PFC.

Response by PO2 Rocky Kleeger made Oct 13 at 2014 9:34 PM

2014-10-13T21:34:57-04:00

At NAS Cecil Field, I was walking to the NEX and forgot to salute a 2nd Lt. He stopped me and made me salute him 100 times. So, there I am saluting and saying good morning sir over, and over. At about number 43, a Marine Captain, who liked me, came up and asked what was going on. The 2nd Lt said what happened and what he was making me do. The Captain looked at me and said, "LCpl Kleeger, even though I think this is stupid, I'm not going to countermand this order. Please start over. And, YOU, Lt, will return EVERY GODDAMN SALUTE he renders!"

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2014 1:12 AM

2014-10-14T01:12:55-04:00

I saw someone with an apple in their hand then salute with said apple still in their hand

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Oct 14 at 2014 8:00 PM

2014-10-14T20:00:19-04:00

Bergdahl saluting Obama, That's one that's worth a few hundred laughs!

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2014 8:25 PM

2014-10-14T20:25:35-04:00

I saluted a E4 (Petty Officer 2nd Class) in Kuwait. The sun was in my eyes and I swore his rank insignia on his DCU's looked like O6 Eagles. Better salute then not I figured. He stopped and said "what are you doing Doc"? Well, we both had a laugh about it.

Last month or so I had a Petty Officer salute me while I was in my digitals, as soon as he got his hand up, he relized what he did, kept the salute up and said "good morning Senior", I saluted him back and chuckled and said "good morning Petty Officer".

Response by SSG Keven Lahde made Oct 14 at 2014 8:50 PM

2014-10-14T20:50:25-04:00

LTC Private RallyPoint Member Sir this story was something I actually did. I was in the Navy at the time and it I believe 0430-0500 and we were getting ready to get underway. Being a CS(Culinary Arts Specialist) you had to be in early to make breakfast for the crew. Well we came aboard via the Quarter Deck. Which we would normally use the lower V to leave and come aboard the ship. After coming aboard I ended up saluting a LT(CPT rank in the Army) and she returned the salute. After doing that I asked my friend why the hell I did that for? I was in civilian clothes and not in uniform. We looked at each and I was waiting for the LT to stop and ask me but she never did. I was so used to being in uniform that it was I guess second nature and didn't think twice.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2014 9:05 PM

2014-10-14T21:05:57-04:00

In BAF Afghanistan there is a lot of brass walking by it's just exhausting!!! once I came across LTC, which I didn't notice at first, he is so used to salute back; he actually saluted me! and this is how I noticed his rank and saluted him in return!

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Oct 14 at 2014 9:25 PM

2014-10-14T21:25:17-04:00

Circa 1986...

Young 2nd Lt aka hotshot pilot in training.... Some of you may remember a movie called Top Gun and a certain actor Tom Cruise playing a hotshot pilot....and the relatively recent Ninja motorcycles....

So, this LT comes rocking up to the main gate, picture revving the throttle a few times, clutch in, you know to be cool. But, because he is pulling up to the gate on a Marine Base, he is really not going fast, as we were 100% stop and ID. My partner salutes him as he is doing about 2mph, the LT quick as lightning responds to the salute, with a salute, but forgets to pull in the clutch...bike stutters, stalls and he damn near drops it, panics, gets his bearings and then has a hard time re-starting. Laughed our ass off.

Be cool, but know your limitations!

Response by CMC Robert Young made Oct 14 at 2014 9:28 PM

2014-10-14T21:28:29-04:00

Mine was a salute that never happened.

We were having an All Hands inspection and review by the local CO as well as the flag staff that owned our command. The parking on the base was very limited and to combat walking blocks to the assembly area, a friend and I showed up early to ensure we got a spot. He backed his truck into a corner of the parking lot. We both exited the vehicle, and standing behind the open doors, immediately dropped our trousers in order to straighten our blouses prior to going to formation......what could possibly go wrong?....it's just two of us in an isolated corner of a parking lot away from everybody else with our pants down & no covers?

I was bent over checking the creases in my shirt when another car pulled in adjacent to where we were parked. I continued my uniform maintenance until something caught the corner of my eye. I looked to my right, and all I could see was ribbons and gold stars. They went on forever & ever. My tiny E4 brain slammed into high gear trying to get my pants back up (I almost neutered myself) and to develop a plausible explanation as to why the two of us were standing there with our pants down and no hats. Needless to say, no plausible answer was revealed so I shifted gears into the possible punishments that might be forthcoming.....reduction to Seaman Recruit swabbing the deck of an ice breaker making backward loops around the South Pole until I was old came to mind.

And then it struck me....the person standing next to me was bent over just like I was. His pants were around his knees; he didn't have on his cover, and he was straightening his shirt. The admiral looked over at the two of us who were completely frozen in our tracks, and said "How you boys doing this morning?" We both muttered a weak and confused "Good Sir". With that he pulled his pants up; grabbed his hat and said "See you later this morning. Have a great day"; and walked off.

It occurred to me as the admiral disappeared across the parking lot that we hadn't exchanged salutes.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2014 8:49 PM

2014-10-15T20:49:41-04:00

At NTC in the dustbowl. My SPC clerk, walking between two SGTs (myself & the CBRN NCO) was saluted by a SFC. Without missing a beat, my clerk returns the salute AND says "Airborne!". I asked him WTF did he think he was doing, and he said "Hey.... he saluted me first..."

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Oct 16 at 2014 10:19 AM

2014-10-16T10:19:47-04:00

I posted this story in another string, but it fits here, as well....

While attending the Infantry Officers Advanced Course at Ft Benning, Georgia, I was assigned to be the escort officer for a retired Army four-star and former Ft Benning CG, who was attending the 200th Anniversary of the Infantry celebration. I had been requested, by name, because he was a good friend of my dad.

I was promoted to Captain on the day he was scheduled to arrive. I picked up the driver and car and proceeded to the Columbus, Georgia airport to pick up the general and his wife.

As the general entered the terminal, I walked up to him, saluted, and stated "Sir, I am Lieutenant Burleson and I will be your escort officer". He took one look at the brand new Captain bars on my uniform and said, "Don't you even know what F**king rank you are Captain?"... I quickly stated, "I'm sorry sir, I just got promoted a couple of hours ago". He chuckled, hugged my shoulders, and we had a great few days. Oh ... He wasted no time in telling my dad how I did not even know my own rank... :-) :-)

Response by SPC Todd Hanson made Oct 16 at 2014 5:30 PM

2014-10-16T17:30:27-04:00

I was in Alaska and it was middle of winter I was going to lunch and all I saw was a spot of black thinking it was a LTC I saluted a CSM.

Response by LCpl A. Chapman made Oct 17 at 2014 8:36 AM

2014-10-17T08:36:51-04:00

I was walking into the HQ Office and I saw this 2nd LT who seemed to have some unknown issue towards me. I saw he was well beyond the pace count and did not salute him. He became butthurt and started trying to chew me out for not saluting an officer. I responded, "Sir, you were beyond the pace count." To which he just stormed off and muttered something under his breath since he knew I was correct. I enjoyed that little exchange haha.

Response by CSM Randy Lyle made Oct 17 at 2014 11:24 AM

2014-10-17T11:24:53-04:00

I remember that back in Basic Training in 1973, Fort Pol, LA the post commander was being driven by his driver and had the Plates on a a MG and some buddy's and I were walking around to the PX, we did not see the General's Car, and he stopped and got out and addressed us (Chewed our asses) for not saluting him, and it was just an honest mistake. But one that I will not forget, As we were continuing on to the PX we all were thinking what an asshole.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2014 1:43 AM

2014-10-20T01:43:23-04:00

My dad is a full bird and he told me one time that he was walking along side a major and they happened to walk in front of a gaggle of pfcs and privates. Anyways none of them noticed the two walking by. My dad is humble man and usually doesn't say anything if a salute wasn't rendered to him. However the major that was walking with him blew up! "What makes you think that you can get away without saluting a Colonel!." He started yelling at all the junior enlisted, smoked them and took all their names and wanted to know what unit they were from. After he was done, the two started walking away. And out of the gaggle, someone yelled "Gay!!". The major turned right around and made them do grass root drills for like 10 mins. My dad just walked away.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2014 5:33 PM

2014-10-20T17:33:37-04:00

First weekend out of basic training and jump school, got to Ft Bragg. Another Soldier and I (both PFCs) were walking down the sidewalk as an officer approached, we both salute and I notice out of the corner of my eye the has a cigarette in his right hand between his fingers. I would have laughed but the officer was a LTC, so we got yelled at for like 5 minutes.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2014 4:46 PM

2014-10-21T16:46:56-04:00

We had a Lt that we really respected in Afghanistan and when we got home we all basically lined up 6 paces apart and walked by him and saluted him. He could hardly return the salute for laughing so hard as we all were but after about 30 of us went by he finally told us to stop.

Response by Cpl Arthur Wilton made Oct 21 at 2014 8:06 PM

2014-10-21T20:06:04-04:00

When assigned to the 2nd FSSG head shed, we where preparing for a visit from the Commandant. I was told to make some fresh coffee and finish prepping the office.
With the door to the office closed I proceed to remove the grinds from the coffee urn (one of those huge silver ones that civilians use for parties and us Marines consider a morning cup). There I am holding this huge pile of grounds and the door swings open next to me. As I look down at who is coming in, all I can see are the stars lined up on the uniform. Now I have a choice, do I come to attention and risk dropping the coffee all over the Commandant of the Marine Corps or do I continue to empty the grinds and risk what could be the worst ass chewing of my career?
Before I even finish processing these options, General Krulak looks me up and down and says "Corporal, didn't anyone tell you the Marine Corps was down sizing? I want you to loose some of that height" And then he left slamming the door shut. (I'm over six foot he is not)

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2014 4:01 PM

2014-10-27T16:01:20-04:00

One time coming out of the PX at Fort Leonard Wood, MO when the Army still wore berets with BDUs I saw what looked like a gold circle on the beret coming towards me. So it has to be a major (O-4) right? I was only a 2LT at the time and I popped up a good crisp salute....to a SPC who quickly returned the salute. It was then that he was close enough for me to see his rank on his collar was SPC and that the gold was not an oak leaf but actually the unit crest. Playing it off I quickly dropped my salute before he could and I continued to my car.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2014 6:39 PM

2014-10-27T18:39:40-04:00

In 1971 while at Wurzburg American High School, I was selected to make the Top Ten Eagle Scouts in Europe report to the Supreme Allied Commander at SHAPE. We wore Boy Scout uniforms with medals and must have looked impressive. Got saluted by lots of different NATO soldiers at the train station in Brussels...20 years later I worked at SHAPE for the SACEUR and handled the Eagle Scout visit...always advised them when in doubt, salute!

Response by SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS made Oct 27 at 2014 11:09 PM

2014-10-27T23:09:18-04:00

As a CID Special Agent, when in uniform and conducting investigative activity, we wore "US" insignia in place of rank. One day as I was heading to the DFAC a young 2LT saluted one of my Agents as they were passing. His Platoon Sergeant, a short distance behind, stopped the Agents and asked why they wore the "US." I quickly said, "they are war correspondents."

And here I thought no one would want to talk to press...........

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 28 at 2014 10:06 PM

2014-10-28T22:06:15-04:00

I was coming out of the PX at Fort Leonard Wood as a 2LT and had my head down trying to put on my beret. I almost ran over a CPT and only had split second to finish putting on the beret and salute her before she passed me. The only tip off I had was when my buddy in front of me said Ma'am.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 2 at 2014 7:58 AM

2014-11-02T07:58:43-05:00

I have a short salute story, LTC Private RallyPoint Member. I posted it under another RP thread, but here it is again. When I was a young troop in the 82d, we went to a Navy base to do some training and then spend a night on a ship. While there, we saw and interacted with a bunch of Sailors. Some of the guys in my platoon decided to have some fun with the Sailors. They had a SP4 walk past a Sailor and when the Sailor didn't salute him, somebody (another SP4? I don't remember) proceeded to chew the Sailor's ass. (Knowing or guessing that the Sailor wouldn't know the Army SP4 rank was not an officer rank). It worked. The Sailor was flummoxed. And then we all - including the Sailor - had a good laugh about it.

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Nov 2 at 2014 9:25 AM

2014-11-02T09:25:14-05:00

I grew up in a family full of Marines and one of the places they served was on a Navy base. I also have an uncle who retired as a Navy officer and we'd visit from time to time. I also spent some time in Navy JROTC in high school. I'm building a background here that I'm comfortable with the Navy's rank despite being Army.

Fast-forward. I'm stationed at Defense Language Institute in Monterey CA, which is a joint post for all services. I've only got one sentence left here.

One morning at about 7am, I saluted a very crusty Chief Petty Officer and he did not have his coffee yet.

The end.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 13 at 2014 1:13 PM

2014-11-13T13:13:47-05:00

At my first duty station, Korea, walking with my MAJ across the field. A very brand new Private was so scared she saluted my MAJ with the wrong hand. I looked dumbfounded because I was a PFC at the time and thought "What in the _____ is wrong with this Soldier?" My MAJ pulled the Private to the side and told her there was nothing to be scared of, she just needed to get her senses together and work on her saluting.

At my current duty station, DC, walking with my Chief from the shoppette. My hands and Chief's are full. Specialist is walking towards us, says, "Whassup Chief?" and keeps it moving. I stopped dead in my tracks and said, "Chief, don't worry I got this." I had that Specialist so scared he was standing at attention and his response to why he didn't salute was, "Well Chief's hands were full...." I ended up getting with his supervisor and needless to say he knows the regulation on saluting very well.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 13 at 2014 1:40 PM

2014-11-13T13:40:44-05:00

My best "Unnecessary salute" story would be from my boot camp graduation. My mother was a YN1 at the time and my little brother, a sophmore, in high school wore his NJROTC uniform. Our company commander actually went and asked that he take off his cover because all the recruits were saluting him! Here's my evidence :)

Response by SSgt Joe V. made Mar 30 at 2015 4:44 PM

2015-03-30T16:44:06-04:00

I was an Air Force E-3 In Camp Doha Kuwait, and running to the port-a-john trailer one day in PT's, I noticed an Army Cpt. walking from a different direction to the same trailer. He was easily 20 to 30 feet from me, but I could see his rank. I felt saluting at that distance would be weird, and so I just went into the 'latrine'. He came storming in before I could even get to the urinal and proceeded to try and lay into me about proper salute this and Cpt that. I stood with my arms crossed the whole time and when he finally asked if I was going to stand at attention for him, I calmly leaned in a little and said, "Is there a question you haven't asked yourself yet that has anything to do with the fact that I am not snapping to attention, or that I didn't salute?" I turned around and went about my business, flushed and moved on without another word...I am pretty sure he is still confused to this day what happened...

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 12:02 PM

2015-03-31T12:02:00-04:00

So, no crap there I was.........stationed at Ft Irwin as part of the 11th ACR OPFOR. For those that have been there, you know that bright rank is worn on the black beret. I was a young SPC then. I was walking along on my way to the PX when I had seen this SGT (in BDU's, thats how long ago that was) running to somewhere, coming in my direction. The SGT went to a walk and saluted me. Naturally, I saluted back. And in the midst of his salute, he looked at me (with his arm still up), and said "Hey, yer not an officer." I said "No, but thanks for the salute SGT" and kept walking.

Response by SFC Jeff L. made Apr 13 at 2015 3:32 PM

2015-04-13T15:32:11-04:00

In my younger years I was I bit more prone to laughing at someone else's expense. So I was walking across the Kaserne with another soldier when we were approached by a 2LT. Says I "Watch this!" and proceeded to render a snappy salute with my left hand. The LT whipped out his salute/greeting like we'd just made his day. As we passed each other I turned to watch him holding knife hands out and looking at them like he was wondering "did I just jack that up?"

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 12:39 PM

2015-04-15T12:39:30-04:00

Was at JRTC as an OC/T. Walked passed a Chaplain CPT and saluted him, he returned the salute but with such motivation and hooah that I swear his hand recoiled and just bounced off the brim of his PC.

Response by Col David Couvillon made Apr 15 at 2015 12:40 PM

2015-04-15T12:40:09-04:00

I was a mustang officer with 12 years enlisted service. All of my commissioned time was the Marine Reserves (at one point, I was the only 2ndLT in the 4th Marine Division!). As a newly promoted Captain, I was attending the Amphibious Warfare School in Quantico with mostly active duty officers. Piling into a car one day for lunch, the conversation turned to experiences my colleagues (3 Majors and another Captain) had at The Basic School, also located at Quantico. I asked that we drive by The Basic School to see all the new 2ndLTs. When we pulled into the parking lot, I jumped out of the car and strolled across the front of the main building, returning the salutes of quite a few Lieutenants. Jumping back in the car, my comrades wanted to know what the hell that was all about. I explained the my whole USMC career to this point, I had always been the one to render the salute first to senior officers. This was my first real opportunity to have more junior officers render salutes to ME! Cracked 'em up...

Response by CPT Kevin Waldroup made Apr 15 at 2015 1:03 PM

2015-04-15T13:03:03-04:00

My wife (fiance' at the time) accompanied my to the Post Hospital at Ft. Bragg to have eye surgery when I was a Lieutenant. As we approached the hospital a soldier gave me a salute and the greeting of the day, which was returned. As we continue walking my wife is looking at me and I said "what" she said "do you have some kind of pin that lets people know you are an officer when not in uniform?"

Turns out that soldier was actually one of my soldiers, so she knew exactly who I was, even out of uniform, and respected me enough to salute.

I thought my wife's reaction was funny though.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 1:12 PM

2015-04-15T13:12:00-04:00

I was a 2LT Platoon Leader with 1/327th Inf Bn 101st and was walking down the company street and a nervous, newly assigned Pvt saluted and said, "Above the Breast". However, our motto when saluting was "Above the Rest"!

Response by COL Dewell Cooper Jr made Apr 15 at 2015 1:59 PM

2015-04-15T13:59:37-04:00

Student Leaders at Lackland AFB, TX would be saluted and salute each other left-handed. One day, as I was moving my section from one class to another, a staff car flying the three-star flag of the Base Commander approached and I called for the Section to look sharp as I rendered my salute. Thinking nothing of it, one of my troops warned me "Eyes, Left!" As I looked to my left, I saw the staff car's front fender and flag. Halting the Section and having them stand fast with my Assistant Leader in charge of the formation, I approached the lowered rear window of the Commander's car and reported smartly. Returning my salute, the general remarked "Just wanted to stop and commend you on a perfectly executed left-handed salute when we passed earlier. Carry on Sergeant and close your mouth."

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Apr 15 at 2015 2:10 PM

2015-04-15T14:10:06-04:00

I was stationed at Camp Bearcat, HQ of the 9th Inf Div in Vietnam, and warned to memorize the layout because it was going to disappear under a sheet of water during monsoon season. Despite attempts by the engineers to dig deep drainage canals alongside every road, the camp looked like a lake with floating tents when the rains began.

I was riding "shotgun" in a jeep when we approached a LTC walking in the opposite direction and saluted. Just as he returned the salute he stepped into one of the ditches and disappeared from sight. I grabbed the driver by the collar and shouted at him to get the hell out of there. I didn't want the LTC to see me laughing when he surfaced.

I looked back to make sure he survived, but self preservation took precedence over any concern I felt...

Response by LTC Matthew Robinson made Apr 15 at 2015 4:07 PM

2015-04-15T16:07:57-04:00

When I was at OBC one of the other LT's was actually going to med-school. Somehow the Army had become convinced that he needed to attend OBC anyway, so he was not what you would call a "highly motivated troop." During chow we used to screw with his headgear, primarily by putting the rank in an incorrect position. Normally he'd catch it as we left the DFAC. One day; however, he did not. As we walked across post, returning to class, a large car screeched to a halt next to us and the post CSM hopped out, rendered a crisp salute, and barked out, "Your rank is on sideways, Sir!" Our friend's language was PURPLE as he whipped off his headgear and made the appropriate adjustment. After OBC he returned to med-school and I never saw him again. I often wonder what happened to him.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 4:23 PM

2015-04-15T16:23:05-04:00

When I was a young PFC, circa 1981, my unit A Co. 23rd Engr Bn, 3rd Armd Div went to the Birnbach Rifle Range in Germany. It was in late March, and Birnbach was one of old KD ranges - i.e. with 'Joes in the Pits'... I say late March, because there was melting snow on the ground, and you had to lie on your poncho to stay above the snow. Only problem with that was - as you laid down, all of the snow melt rushed over the poncho and you became instantly soaked. After SP4 Tom Kendrick and had qualified, we went to eat boiled hotdogs and baked beans. After we finished, and we proceeded to walk back up the range road to go do our turn in the pits, we see 1LT Walsh coming down the same road. We promptly and properly salute him. He returns it. However he calls us back to him. We trot back the 3 -5 steps to ask what the El-Tee wants. He asks do either of us have a napkin that he could get. I hand him a used one. He states that as he was receiving our salute, and he returned it, the hot-dog that he had been eating in his right hand went up to his right eyebrow, and he needed to get the mustard and relish out. He also admonished us NOT to TELL ANYONE... By the time that we got to the pit, everybody we saw - knew what the hell had happened. And when the El-Tee found us, well, the 25 pushups was pay back...

Response by CPT Bruce Beattie made Apr 15 at 2015 4:23 PM

2015-04-15T16:23:39-04:00

As a rather new 2LT, I was in my 1st week at my first duty station after Armor Officer Basic Course I was approaching the HQ building of my new unit. I observed the unit SGM exit the building and begin to walk in my direction. I was carrying things in my right hand and transferred them to my left, preparing to return his salute. The SGM walked right by me without saluting. I stopped, turned around and said loudly, "SGM! Did you forget something?" He stated that he did not believe so. I said, "Well, you forgot to salute!" The SGM proceeded to tell me that He did not salute 2LTs. I then told him that I might be the newest 2LT in the entire US Army and he might be the oldest SGM but, regulation required him to salute all officers. I also told him that out of respect for his position and service in the army that I was also required to return that salute. The SGM then stated that he did not have to take that from any 2LT! He then headed straight back to the HQ with me right on his heels. He charged straight into the Colonel's office and I charged straight over to the bulletin board! Moments later the door to the CO's office flew open and the Col said, "Lieutenant Beattie! Get in here!" I entered the office and snapped to attention and reported! The Col asked me what had just happened? I reported the exchange outside the building right up to the SGM stating, " I do not salute Second Lieutenants!" The COL looked at the SGM and asked, "Is that true, SGM?" The SGM started out, "Well, Sir..." The COL interrupted him. "Is that true?" "Well, Sir..." "SGM, Yes or No!" "Yes, Sir!" "Lieutenant! You are dismissed!" As I exited the office I closed the door. Some swear that smoke was seen curling out from under that door! No other 2LT on post could understand why, and I never told them but, that SGM could be a half a block away when he rendered me a snappy salute from then on!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 4:31 PM

2015-04-15T16:31:35-04:00

In 2009, when I was reclassing to 68S, I was standing in my ACU's when this IET Soldier (about 50ft away), saluted me thinking I was a LTC.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 5:00 PM

2015-04-15T17:00:27-04:00

I was on my first TDY as a brand new butterbar obtained by civilian commission in Desert Shield/Storm at Myrtle Beach AFB. I was finishing medical school and until I had my MD, i was assigned as a clerk. My job was to check ID when the guys staging for overseas came through and verify order sets making sure the right people were in the right line. I had dropped something and while I was bent down getting it from under the table, I heard a swoosh! And everything got quiet. I looked out from undet the table and everybody in the room was standing at attention. As I sat in my chair, I saw this O5 walking briskly across the room toward me. When he got to me, I asked if I could help him with anything. It was at that point I learned one should stand when O5 walks in. Once I hit attention, I forgot to salute. He kept asking me if I had forgotten something. I finally realized what he meant and after a few choice words, he went on his way. Never made that mistake again. By the time I hit MIMSO almost a year and a half later, I was already the pro.

Response by 2LT Greg Kauffman made Apr 15 at 2015 6:14 PM

2015-04-15T18:14:39-04:00

When I was a cadet I was up at Ft. Richardson, AK doing CTLT (Cadet Troop Leadership Training). I was walking across one of the parking lots to an admin building when I noticed a Major that had come out of the building heading to his car. I was just about to salute him when he saluted me first and said "Good Morning Sir." Shocked that a Major was saluting ME, I saluted back, said good morning, and kept on walking. I got about 8 steps when he hollers out "Wait a minute." I turned around and he walked up to me, looked at my rank, and said "Damn, for a second I thought you were the youngest Colonel I'd even seen." Shook his head, laughed, and headed out.

For those of you who don't know, the rank insignia for a Cadet is a silver round circle. It looks almost exactly like a Lt. Colonel's rank.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 8:21 PM

2015-04-15T20:21:25-04:00

I was a new captain reporting to Fort Leonard Wood for CCC when I walk by two female trainees standing there who, as I walked by, stared at me blankly and said nothing. I quickly turn around and proceed to chew them out for not saluting and giving the greeting of the day. They quickly snapped to attention, saluted, and one of them said, "Oh, sorry, Sir. We just got our eyes dialated and we can't really see anything." I noticed their pupils were as large as dimes. I said, "Very well then. Carry on." and laughed it off. I realized I was walking right outside the eye doctor's office. I kind of felt like an ass. And no, they did not have the plastic dark glasses they usually give you when they dialate your eyes.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 8:31 PM

2015-04-15T20:31:50-04:00

I was at a PX at Ft. McCoy Wisconsin. There was a soldier standing in front of the store with a cell phone talking. He made to salute me as I approached and he dropped his expensive smart phone, which shattered on impact onto the concrete. That I think is my most hilarious salute story. I felt bad for the soldier because he did the right thing, but I couldn't help laughing.

Response by 1LT Brian Yang made Apr 15 at 2015 8:45 PM

2015-04-15T20:45:01-04:00

I was a 2LT at Ft. Lee. Our unit was was doing a logistics exercise as part of a mobilization. Somehow we found ourselves having to go to a DFAC on the AIT side of the base. I was walking next to my NCOIC when we walked by two Privates who looked confused and rendered a slow salute, I returned the salute and kept walking. Next thing I know my NCOIC tells me he'll catch up and I see him approach the group of Privates. Later I found out that they were confused because they "didn't know what a gold bar meant". I didn't really hear the end of that one for a while.

Response by CAPT James McClure made Apr 15 at 2015 9:22 PM

2015-04-15T21:22:15-04:00

When I was home-ported in Sasebo, Japan, we rented an off-base apartment from an elderly Japanese couple. When I gave them the monthly rent payment, we always bowed to each other as Japanese traditionally do. Taking my leave was awkward because they would bow, and I would bow, and then they would bow again. After several rounds of bowing I would straighten up and salute... and then leave before they could bow again.

Response by LTC Roger Althoff made Apr 15 at 2015 9:26 PM

2015-04-15T21:26:18-04:00

I just had a direct commission to 1LT and was in Officers basic at Ft Sam Houston in San Antonio, TX in 1976.While walking down the sidewalk, a whole group of very young enlisted approached me. I watched them spread out so I would have to salute individually. As I passed the first one, he rendered me a left hand salute. I returned with a snappy left hand salute. This continued thru over 20 more enlisted. As I passed the last one, I turned around. All of them had stopped and were looking back at me realizing they had all got a left hand salute. I called them all back. I told all of them, next time that they probably be as lucky. Not all new officers are "green" as some of us were prior enlisted. I was stuck as a PFC for over 4 years as my rank was locked while going to school.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 10:26 PM

2015-04-15T22:26:39-04:00

Walking to the motor pool at Ft Riley as a 2LT I was returning a salute to a SSG and we both realized that we had attend basic training together 6 years earlier.

Response by CDR Dan Campbell made Apr 16 at 2015 12:43 AM

2015-04-16T00:43:04-04:00

As a young E-3 way back in the day, I had the day off from the NATO job that I had at the time. My wife and I decided to go shopping at the NATO base, and we came across a LCDR for whom I worked (he retired as Captain Tony Sicari...greatest leader I ever met). Although in civilian clothes, I greeted him with a warm good afternoon sir. And, as protocol dictated while in uniform, he saluted and said good morning. And that is when my wife promptly returned his salute with a perfectly executed hand salue. We all got a kick out of it at the time.

Response by CPT Kevin Drury made Apr 16 at 2015 3:16 AM

2015-04-16T03:16:05-04:00

I spent 4 years as an enlisted soldier and my first 4 years as an officer saluting anyone with a captain rank on. The day I was promoted to captain I was walking around Camp Able Sentry and I walked past a group of Marine Captains and snapped up a salute, out of habit. Half the group gave me a strange look and the other half giggled. I continued past them and took about three steps before I figured out what was going on and remembered that I no longer had to salute captains. I felt pretty dumb!

Response by CPT John Burke made Apr 16 at 2015 5:33 AM

2015-04-16T05:33:39-04:00

When I was starting IOBC, we were at the CIF getting our gear around 9 am. The entire company of lieutenants was formed up. Across the road was a basic training company. One of the trainees was walking (more like bee bopping) down the street when he notices us. He says loud and clear "holy shit, a gang salute!" and pops off a loose salute. What he did not notice was drill sergeant behind him.... they spent the next 100 meters in an intense walking counseling session. Cannot say what happened after they turned the corner.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2015 6:52 AM

2015-04-16T06:52:14-04:00

I had reported to OCS and hadn't even classed up yet when a couple of buddies and I had to go to a shoppette on the Sand Hill side of Benning to pick up a required book. A private must have been confused by the gold letters on my uniform and saluted me. Then his drill sergeant saluted one of my battles. We just stood there shocked; we had graduated from basic training just 3 days prior!

Response by MAJ Jessie Taylor made Apr 16 at 2015 9:55 AM

2015-04-16T09:55:05-04:00

I can remember returning to my unit (B-2-18 FA MLRS) after OCS in 2001 waiting for FAOBC. It was a Monday morning and all the Soldiers lined up from the BN to the motor pool. And as I walked pass, each one slauted as I passed. When I finall made it to the motor pool gates the CSM saluted me, gave me a challange coun and said 'knock'em out LT". That was the best momement in my career, that fellow Soldiers would honor me in this way. On the way to that motor poll my arm was warn out...lol

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2015 2:32 PM

2015-04-16T14:32:07-04:00

Being AMEDD, we are "cut from a different cloth". Typically, the bearing is almost too lax, especially for those in Combat Arms. However, I think of 2 stories that make me laugh, and shake my head.

First one is "My bad". I was working on getting rid of the car seat, as we were looking at transporting Soldiers to and from a local post. As I'm standing up with my car seat in my left hand, my keys in my right, 2 SPC walk by and say, "Good afternoon CPT" and salute. Before I could catch myself, I snapped the return salute....WITH my keys in my hand. After that, the involuntary "Fuck.....*groan*" escaped as I mentally chided myself for the stupidity.

Second was when I was mobilized as a 1LT to Ft McCoy. We were transitioning offices, and I was walking to grab things from one building to transfer. A SPC walking up to us sees me, and I see the panicked look building in his eyes as he has his hands full with 6-8 binders of our SOPs. Once it finally clicks what he wants, I was probably 10 paces from him when I did the "nonnonono" hand gestures and told him not to salute. He gets the sigh of relief and says, "Thank you Sir." At this point, I laughed and told him that a simple greeting when your hands are full is sufficient, so he wouldn't feel the same fear again. However, I had a mental flashback of our SOPs flying all over Ft McCoy because he dropped the binder......*shudder*. Not fun there.
v/r,
CPT Butler

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2015 10:02 AM

2015-04-17T10:02:11-04:00

Reserve Army Nurse Corps Officers always provide some humor. One of our enlisted went to salute what he anticipated was a nurse, until he couldn't figure out her rank. She was wearing a 2LT bar with COL rank underneath. Well, she was an LTC after all.

Response by LTC Robert Offer made Apr 17 at 2015 11:00 AM

2015-04-17T11:00:17-04:00

As a 2LT one day at Fort Ord walking to the DFAC, I was talking to two Soldiers in my unit. Two privates approached and saluted me but before I could get my hand up, SGT Perez, a section chief in my unit, grabbed my arm, saluted saying, "I got that for you, sir!" One of the funniest Soldiers I ever knew...

Response by LTC Robert Offer made Apr 17 at 2015 11:02 AM

2015-04-17T11:02:54-04:00

A 2LT at Fort Ord I was talking to two of my Soldiers as we walked to the DFAC. Two privates approached and nervously saluted. Before I could get my hand up, SGT Perez, one of unit section chiefs, sneaks up behind me, grabs my arm and salutes saying, "I got that for you, sir!" One of the funniest guys I ever knew...

Response by SSG Christopher Parrish made Apr 17 at 2015 12:34 PM

2015-04-17T12:34:25-04:00

One of the funniest ones I can think of was when I was at a small unit competition as a SPC and while entering the armory early in the morning, I got saluted by a 2LT who was younger than me.

I guess the combination of my age and the SPC rank on my ACUs at dawn made him think I was a LTC. I of course returned the salute and as I passed the 2LT I heard him whisper under his breath, "aw, shit."

Response by SSG Adam Reed made Apr 17 at 2015 2:35 PM

2015-04-17T14:35:50-04:00

As an E-4 while stationed in Wildflecken Germany in the 90's we were still wearing the BDU's. Which we all know had some black camo in it. Well on my cap, in the front, above the bill, just right of where the seam comes together it just happens to be that there was one spot of black. Spaced far enough from my rank that together they looked like subdued CPT's bars if you looked quickly or from afar.
I'm walking into the PX with a buddy and this 2nd LT. comes walking out, takes a quick look and salutes me as he walks past. Then stops, turns around and has me at attention saying that I need to fix it so LT's don't go around looking like asses saluting a lower enlisted. True story.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Apr 18 at 2015 8:20 PM

2015-04-18T20:20:49-04:00

For those of you not familiar with Navy Petty Officer ranks, a Petty Officer Second Class (E5) and Petty Officer First Class (E6) who has 12 or more years of "continuous good conduct" is authorized to wear gold chevrons in place of red chevrons. Combine this with wearing the Navy "coveralls" uniform, the one that looks like something a grease monkey mechanic would wear. So now you're looking at a person with tiny gold rank insignias on their collar. Combine this with the fact that I was 37 years old at the time and had been in the Navy longer than some Sailors and Marines (I was stationed on an Amphibious ship so we carried Marines) had been alive. Marines are already taught to salute anything shiny or gold.

We were inside the ship so no actual salute, but the Marines would stop, come to attention, and scream "Good morning SIR!" The first few times I would correct the Marine by saying "Take it easy, I'm a Petty Officer First Class, equivalent to a Staff Sergeant." But since there were a few hundred Marines on my ship it was a never-ending journey. It got to the point where I would just say "Good morning Marine, carry on" or if I felt like being an asshole I'd say "What's so fucking good about it Marine?"

Response by LTC Jeffrey Shapiro made Apr 22 at 2015 12:32 PM

2015-04-22T12:32:48-04:00

When I was a Plebe at West Point, I saw our Wrestling grad assistant, 2LT (name withheld to prevent embarrassment), walking past all the cadets coming out of Thayer Hall before lunch. An endless stream of what would be nothing but return salutes, all while the cadets uttered, "Beat Duke, Sir!" But he wasn't returning the salutes. When I caught up to him I realized he had TWO briefcases, one in each hand. He told me one day that carrying an extra briefcase in his right hand was far easier and much less strenuous than returning the salutes of 500 or so cadets in rapid succession.

Response by CPT Quentin von Éfáns-Taráfdar made Apr 23 at 2015 2:31 PM

2015-04-23T14:31:44-04:00

During my first command as a second lieutenant our infantry company had to deploy to Ranger Annex Field 7 in Eglin Air Force Base, Florida to act as guerillas against the Ranger students.

When we arrived there we discovered that the barracks that we were to occupy still contained the previous company of acting “guerillas” so we had to repair to main post to find quarters. Once there, we parked our convoy of trucks on the street and our company commander went into the HQ.

The other officers and I dismounted ourselves and the troops. We fell them in and then gave them “At Rest!” so they could stretch their legs after the hours long ride from Ft. Benning, smoke and joke. This allowed us officers also to stretch our legs, smoke and discuss French poetry and German philosophers.

Though I was aware, as all of us in the Army were, that protocol in the Air Force is somewhat less formal than in the Army we were not quite prepared for what happened next.

A few minutes after we had dismounted an Air Force Lt. Col. approached us en route to the HQ building. Following Army protocol I called the company to attention turned on my heel to face the Lt. Col., snapped out a smart salute and greeted him with a resounding “Good Afternoon, Sir!” He looked up at me, waved casually and said, “Hi there, Lieutenant” without even a pretence of a salute! We all looked at each other a little bemused and silently concluded that he must have been a doctor or something that he didn’t observe protocol. I gave the men “At Rest” again.

A few moments later a full colonel came the other way and again I called the company to attention, saluted sharply and sounded off with, “Good Afternoon, Sir!” He looked at me a little perplexed and says, “Oh, hi, same to you too.”

I returned the men to “at rest” while they and the other officers remarked on the informality of the Air Force.

Yet again a few minutes later another Lt. Col. came our way but this time I was ready for him. As he passed in front of us I waved to him casually and said “Hi there, Colonel.” He smiled and said, “Hi there, Lieutenant. It’s a great day isn’t it?” and sauntered on his way.

Indeed, it was a great day or at least an amusing one.

Response by CPT Quentin von Éfáns-Taráfdar made Apr 27 at 2015 1:47 PM

2015-04-27T13:47:02-04:00

In the nineties, when Poland was in the process of integrating into NATO, a group of American and British Paratroopers and Special Forces went to the Polish military base in Warclaw (formerly the German town of Breslau) to participate in a parachute jump with our new NATO colleagues.
This base was, among other things, the centre for their officer and paratrooper schools with their Special Forces school located a short distance away.
There were soldiers from various other NATO countries on the base performing other integration functions.
One morning before leaving our sleeping quarters to go to the mess hall I happened to look out through the windows of the swinging doors to see standing, just off to the right side of the steps, a group of about 15 German army engineers headed by a full colonel.
For those of you who may not know this, military engineers are very much like their civilian counterparts. They smoke pipes. They are a very methodical group of people. They have to have all the information before they make decisions. They have to think everything through before taking any action. They are the antithesis of paratroopers (and for that matter regular infantry and cavalry as well). We never have all of the information; we take action under the fire of the moment; we don’t have the luxury of time to ruminate. We smoke cigars.
Engineers consider paratroopers to be reckless Neanderthals to be disparaged and avoided when possible; we consider them to be a bit stuffy to be made the butt of fun whenever possible.
Seeing so many engineers with their pipes a puffing I couldn’t resist the temptation - as usual.
Turning to my paratrooper colleagues I said, “Look, there are a group of German engineers out there. Let’s have some fun. Everyone come out of the double doors in single file at five second intervals and do as I do. Let’s see how long before they move off.” Childish grins spread through the group.
I banged my way through the double doors causing the engineers to look up. I shot down the short flight of steps, saluted sharply and boomed out in my parade ground voice, “Guten Morgen, Herr Oberst!” (Good morning, Colonel!) Then without breaking stride as I strode past and away from the group I nodded to the other engineers saying, “Herren” (Gentlemen).
There was a moment of stunned stillness in the group. They were not expecting an American Special Forces officer to materialise from nowhere in Poland and address them German.
This was followed by a moment of befuddlement as pipes were snatched from mouths or shifted to left hands as they sought to return my salute properly (It is true, Germans are very thorough people – that is why they make so many good engineers.)
Five seconds later Mill Biller, a six foot three Scots paratrooper bounded through the doors and down the steps, snapped out a sharp salute and boomed out a “Good morning, Sir!”, not dignifying the occasion by saying these words in the language of Goethe.
The engineers had hardly recovered from my passing at that point and were clearly rattled by this second arrival and went once again through the pipe befuddlement “ritual”, etc. By this point the engineers were beginning to shift on their ground uncomfortably.
Before they could complete their pipe ritual another British “para”, Mark Blackridge, came out the doors and down the steps duplicating his countryman’s performance. The engineers visibly gave ground not certain that there would be not repeat “paratroop drops”.
The coup de grâce was the fourth paratrooper, an American of Chinese origin, Erwin Tong, who banged through doors and down the steps, salutes and says “Good Morning, Sir” in Cantonese (at least I presume that is what he said)
That broke them, the engineers abandoned their ground completely, moving to a position out of saluting range so they could discuss quantum physics or whatever it is that engineers discuss among themselves.
One of the officers in our group observed that if one Chinese could shift 15 Germans then what could the Chinese shift if they all got together to which Erwin Tong replied, “They’d all have to be paratroopers though to get that result, sir.”

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 2 at 2015 3:20 PM

2015-05-02T15:20:24-04:00

I was once eating a cookie while walking out of the building and was caught off guard when a group of Specialists approached and saluted me. I regretfully saluted them with the cookie in my hand, but quickly transferred the cookie to my left hand and rendered a proper salute after the initial blunder. Very embarrasing.

Response by Lt Col Shaun Copelin made May 3 at 2015 6:41 PM

2015-05-03T18:41:21-04:00

I reported to Mather AFB as a 2nd Lt with a silver dollar in my pocket to give to the first enlisted member to salute me (as is the "well known" tradition). As I walked up to the CBPO/Wing HQ building a Staff Sgt was walking toward me. He gives me a salute which I return and I then promptly thank him and hand him the silver dollar. Without hardly breaking stride he takes it and says "you do know, sir, you don't have to pay us for salutes." He just kept walking, so I didn't even get a chance to explain the tradition. It wasn't quite the response I was expecting...I always wondered if anyone ever told him why the snot nosed LT handed him a silver dollar.

Response by CAPT James McClure made May 6 at 2015 12:41 PM

2015-05-06T12:41:41-04:00

When I was home-ported in Sasebo, Japan in 1966, my wife and I rented an off-base apartment from an elderly Japanese couple. When interacting with Japanese, at least in those days, it was customary to exchange bows, and with our old-school landlord this could be an elaborate ritual of bowing back and forth. So I would pay the rent and the landlord and his wife would bow. I would bow back, but then they would bow again. After several rounds of bowing, I would straighten up and salute... and then exit before the landlord figured out how to respond.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2015 5:07 PM

2015-08-20T17:07:23-04:00

About six months out of Annapolis, and down at P-Cola during API, I was reporting to the TRAWING shack and not wearing my glasses (SNFO, but that didn't mean I didn't want to look "cool" like the SNA's). I saw this towering mass of khaki with "gold" shining off the collars and just "knew" I was crossing the beam of a fire-breathing, ensign-eating O-4 and snapped a sharp salute from about eight paces away. The bemused Senior Chief smiled, saluted back and said, "Thank you Sir...be sure to check the cover for two not one, ok?"

Response by SSgt Dan Montague made Aug 25 at 2015 7:27 PM

2015-08-25T19:27:33-04:00

More than 20 and less than 30 years ago we were some hard charging Marines in our MOS school aboard FT Sill. When we had lunch we had to wait for at least 10 other before we marched back to the classroom. So we would hang out on the grass and wait. Several officers would walk by, we yelled ATTENTION ON DECK!!!!!!!!!! and saluted. One time a well rounded Army Major walked out of the chow hall. We watched him kinda put on his cover correctly. He walked by us eating an ice cream cone he held in his right hand. We yelled ATTAENTION ON DECK, saluted and waited. He looked over and smiled and waved at us with his left hand. Being boots we just kinda stood there holding the salute for bit watching him walk away.

Response by Lt Col Michael Hills made Aug 26 at 2015 8:11 AM

2015-08-26T08:11:45-04:00

So after nearly nine years as an enlisted troop, I went to OTS and earned the coveted gold bars. Still driving my old beater from my enlisted days, I drove to my Tech School at Keesler and as I approached the main gate, the guard popped a salute (this was pre-911 so you were still able to roll through without stopping and showing ID if you had the blue sticker). It was about this time that I realized the one thing they didn't cover in OTS was saluting at the gate. My beater was a standard shift and apparently driving and saluting is the rough equivalent of a second lieutenant walking and chewing gum so when I saluted, control of the clutch went out the window and I stalled the car dead in an embarrassingly conspicuous manner. The guard approached to see if I was drunk or just an idiot but when he saw the gold bars, he saluted again and said I might want to practice my gate salute a couple more times and then returned to his post.

Response by CPT Quentin von Éfáns-Taráfdar made Aug 27 at 2015 6:58 PM

2015-08-27T18:58:16-04:00

During my first command as a second lieutenant our infantry company had to deploy to Ranger Annex Field 7 in Eglin Air Force Base, Florida to act as guerillas against the Ranger students. When we arrived there we discovered that the barracks that we were to occupy still contained the previous company of acting “guerillas” so we had to repair to main post to find quarters. Once there, we parked our convoy of trucks on the street and our company commander went into the HQ. The other officers and I dismounted ourselves and the troops. We fell them in and then gave them “At Rest!” so they could stretch their legs after the hours long ride from Ft. Benning, smoke and joke. This allowed us officers also to stretch our legs, smoke and discuss French poetry and German philosophers.
Though I was aware, as all of us in the Army were, that protocol in the Air Force is somewhat less formal than in the Army we were not quite prepared for what happened next.
A few minutes after we had dismounted an Air Force Lt. Col. approached us en route to the HQ building. Following Army protocol I called the company to attention turned on my heel to face the Lt. Col., snapped out a smart salute and greeted him with a resounding “Good Afternoon, Sir!” He looked up at me, waved casually and said, “Hi there, Lieutenant” without even a pretence of a salute! We all looked at each other a little bemused and silently concluded that he must have been a doctor or something that he didn’t observe protocol. I gave the men “At Rest” again. A few moments later a full colonel came the other way and again I called the company to attention, saluted sharply and sounded off with, “Good Afternoon, Sir!” He looked at me a little perplexed and says, “Oh, hi, same to you too.”
I returned the men to “At Rest” while they and the other officers remarked on the informality of the Air Force.
Yet again a few minutes later another Lt. Col. came our way but this time I was ready for him. As he passed in front of us I waved to him casually and said “Hi there, Colonel.” He smiled and said, “Hi there, Lieutenant. It’s a great day isn’t it?” and sauntered on his way.
Indeed, it was a great day or at least an bemusing one.

Response by Maj William Gambrell made Aug 28 at 2015 9:55 PM

2015-08-28T21:55:06-04:00

Before 9/11 when you could get through gates with window stickers, a gate guard saluted me with his left and then waved me through with his right hand. I noticed it and said I don't think you saluting me with your left hand is considered appropriate protocol.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Aug 28 at 2015 10:03 PM

2015-08-28T22:03:29-04:00

CPT Brian Maurelli, During BCT in 1953 @ Camp San Luis Obispo where we lived in "huts" w/2 double bunks and 1 single and a company latrine 30 meters away, I attempted to salute the PLT LDR w/a bar of soap in my right hand! The LT noticed!

Response by CPO John Dupee made May 22 at 2016 8:32 PM

2016-05-22T20:32:49-04:00

USS SAVANNAH (AOR4) deployed in the Med, 1994. Pit stop in Augusta Bay, Sicily allows for necessary Medical visits at NAS Sigonella. Ship's company is required to be in Dress Blues (Crackerjacks with dixie cup white hat) for any business aboard NAS. As a BM2 (Boatswain's Mate, Second Class Petty Officer / E-5) part of my rig is a white lanyard for my Boatswain's Pipe. On foot, making my way back to the muster point an Air Force Major didn't know whether to piss or go blind and initiated on e of the smartest salutes ever slung in my direction. I, of course responded in kind but grinned the WHOLE way back to the bus and had a great story to tell.

Response by CPT Quentin von Éfáns-Taráfdar made May 24 at 2016 12:37 PM

2016-05-24T12:37:26-04:00

I once knew a Thai officer who told me that 2nd Lts in his army wore one silver star as their rank insignia. He enjoyed his time in the Joint Korean Command headquarters being saluted by full colonels on down.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2016 1:19 PM

2016-06-01T13:19:37-04:00

Had a booter at A-School; so fresh you can smell the Lever 2000 on them. The story goes that if you see squirrels around you, you are to double salute them if you are in uniform. Remind you, there are hundreds of squirrels around Corry Station.
One morning, I was in the smoke pit across from the female barracks and saw booter snap to attention, double salute, back to attention the proceeded to the mess hall.
I don't think I stopped laughing for 5 minutes, lol.

There are others I saw like one sailor taking his mattress to the main quarterdeck to get stamped.....

I can't make this up even on my good days.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2016 1:45 PM

2016-06-01T13:45:26-04:00

TDY as a CPT to Yongsan. Apparently the KATUSAs are taught to salute officers anywhere, anytime. I had been there about a week and this one particular young troop had already saluted me a hundred times. In the parking lot, under the overhang at the smoke shack, in the hallway, in my office, etc. One morning I am in the latrine standing at the urinal and in walks this same kid. Immediately pops to attention and gives me a nice crisp salute and a "good morning, sir". I just looked at him for a couple of seconds and then said, "carry on, my hands are full at the moment"

Response by CPL Brendan Hayes made Jun 1 at 2016 1:53 PM

2016-06-01T13:53:40-04:00

While working on our vehicle, another soldier and I were told to run over to the maintenance building for a part. As ordered we run as best we can though there was snow and ice on the ground. In mid run we look up and see our battery commander (BC) walking up. I slow to a walk and salute. My buddy hits a patch of ice, but is able to maintain balance, get into the position of attention, and salute while sliding forward. Our BC returns the salute and chuckles to himself as we continued on.

Response by MSG Pat Colby made Jun 2 at 2016 4:28 PM

2016-06-02T16:28:30-04:00

I had just graduated AIT at Benning and had a couple of days until Jump school started. One afternoon, I was sitting outside on the steps of a library on post and a female 2LT walked by me. I remained seated and said Hi. She quickly started to chew my ass. I replied, "If I knew you were going to go off like that I wouldn't have even said Hi." Let's just say she freaked out on me a bit more.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2016 4:32 PM

2016-06-02T16:32:55-04:00

A common saying when I was in was, "When in doubt whip it out." As a PFC I worked in S-3 for my first assignment. I cannot remember how many times I was given a salute by those who out ranked me.

The one that gave me the most shock was I met an old man at church who took it upon himself to lead me into Spiritual matters. I never saw him outside of church, till one day at a Chaplain's breakfast. I saw him sitting at a table but could not see exactly what he was wearing. I walked up to him, placed my hand on his shoulder and called him by his first name, which I often did at church. When he turned to look at me I almost threw-up. He had two stars and I tried to correct myself. I could see the shock on everyone's face when I did it. He said it was fine because we were at a religious event and we are all brothers and sisters in the Lord.

Response by PO2 Lynette Nivens made Jun 2 at 2016 4:33 PM

2016-06-02T16:33:30-04:00

My husband started his military career in the Navy. As an AG, he went to A at an Air Force base. One day as he was willing across base he was stopped by a young, new airman. The airman said " excuse me, but I don't really know which of you Navy guys we're supposed to salute". Hubby responded, "you've got to be kidding me! They didn't teach you in Boot Camp? The Navy outranks the Air Force! You salute ALL of us!". To this the recruit said " Thank you, sir", came to attention and saluted him ( an E-2)!

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2016 4:46 PM

2016-06-02T16:46:05-04:00

The best I had was turning a corner on post and nearly tackling the Post Commander (2-star). I snapped the salute about 3" from his face and screamed, "HOLY SHIT, SIR!!"

He laughed his ass off - and told me that I had made his day.

I was shaking for the rest of the afternoon. (edited to add: I was a BRAND new PFC, just 2-weeks out of Basic at the time)

________________________

CRAP!! I TOTALLY forgot another!

I was a VIP briefer for my unit's rotation on the DMZ when I was stationed in Korea. We had an S4 Captain that was just HORRIBLE about demanding salutes at all times. On the day in question, he made his way into a briefing and then a tour of Guard Posts Collier and Oulette. We get to Oulette and the group is escorted up to the main tower and shown the North Korean position just over the border - with the NK soldier watching them all with his binos. I had to deliver a message to the REAL VIP of the tour and approached.

This Captain starts turning purple, positively apoplectic that I wasn't rendering a salute some 20-paces away. The VIP Colonel starts to shake his head and say something, and I solved it.

"SNIPER CHECK, SIR!!"

He angrily returned my salute - and then froze. He turned ashy white as the color drained from his face, and he looked over the border at the NK soldier watching him through the binos. He RAN back to the van and never left it until we returned to base.

The Colonel coined me for it.

Response by CW2 Carl Swanson made Jun 2 at 2016 5:22 PM

2016-06-02T17:22:14-04:00

When I was at Ft. Rucker, as a W-1, we told a bunch of 2LTs that the W-1 rank they were seeing was a 1LT(P) and they were running around saluting the W-1s. Yes, true story.

Response by SPC Darin Taylor made Jun 2 at 2016 5:48 PM

2016-06-02T17:48:13-04:00

My story does not involve saluting, but it did get a unique response from the Base Commander. I was assigned one day to the flight line tool shed and this bird kept landing on my head and as you might have guessed the Base Commander walks in to see me standing at attention with this crazy bird on my head. The Base Commander quickly asked me if the bird was regulation head gear, then laughed and told me to carry on.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 2 at 2016 8:04 PM

2016-06-02T20:04:20-04:00

This story was relayed to me by my supervisor when I was stationed at Hurlburt Field. He was the third car in line at a traffic light at 1700 when the music started playing. The first car stayed put through every cycle until the music stopped playing. Meanwhile, the driver in the middle car decided to be an obnoxious ass through the music. Once the music stopped playing, the car door of the first car opened, out stepped a gentleman, put on his hat and turned around to approach the second car. The gentleman's hat had 3 stars on it. It was the AFSOC commander. The second car was a captain. LtGen pulls the captain out of his car and lays in to the captain as would be expected. The salutes rendered by the captain were apparently pretty bad so of course the general goes off on that as well.

Response by SGT DelRay Davis made Jun 2 at 2016 10:09 PM

2016-06-02T22:09:26-04:00

AIT in Ft Sam Houston, we actually did some of our training at the Navy barracks there in town. In the Army you find yourself making the unconscious assumption that when you see silver or gold, you better get that hand up. Unfortunately for me, Navy Chiefs do not have a great deal of patience with a PV2 still in training status trying to stay out of trouble.

Response by MSgt Jeff Bailey made Jun 2 at 2016 11:17 PM

2016-06-02T23:17:20-04:00

Basic Training, I had to escort a sick kid to the clinic at dawn. As we turned a corner of the building we literally crashed into the Squadron Commander (A Major). The other guy dropped the bag he was carrying and I bent down to pick it up, at the same time the sick kid snapped to attention, saluted and said Good Morning Sir! My MTI chewed my butt for about a week for that one.

3 years later walking across the Flt Line (No saluting required) I saw my former CC, now Lt Col…I walked right up and almost SCARED the guy when I snapped a salute! He asked why was I saluting him on the Flt Line and I told him I've owed him that since Boot Camp 3+ years ago!

He remembered the collision then and laughed his butt off. We were never in the same unit but we'd run into each other here and there and he was a real nice guy, and often as not, he’d salute me before I could get to it when we’d cross paths.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2016 1:03 AM

2016-06-03T01:03:02-04:00

Being saluted by Soldiers at Ft Huachuca who were nervous when they saw Marines

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2016 11:33 PM

2016-06-03T23:33:25-04:00

Get a bunch of your buddies and stand about 10 meters apart outside the MCX and wait for officers to come out. About every third step someone is saluting. LCPL games.

Response by SGT David D. made Jun 4 at 2016 6:37 AM

2016-06-04T06:37:58-04:00

My first field exercise, in my first permanent duty assignment, Reforger 1982, I was a PVT. I had been taught that you did NOT salute in the field, but we were instructed to render the greeting of the day, show respect in that manner.
So, here I am walking through the company AO, and here comes the BN CO, and the BN SGM. I'm still a bit green, so I'm like oh shit, but remember what I was told, and continue to walk towards them, I'm and said good morning sir!..... I got about two steps past the Colonel, and I hear the him bark Private!! Don't you know you are supposed to salute officers! !! So now I'm thinking oh shit.
I turned and faced him looked him straight in the eye, and told him "Sir! I was instructed that in a field environment, NOT to salute officers because it would identify officers to the enemy snipers!" I certainly meant no disrespect and I did give you the greeting of the day and showed respect verbally, and that I would be more then Happy render a Salute! and rendered a Salute and held it until returned, the Colonel did chew me out a little, it seems he didn't think it was likely that snipers would be in the area. The Sergeant Major never said a word, but he did nod as he and the Colonel turned to walk away......flash forward a couple days later, the Platoon Sergeant, SFC Kenny walked up to me and Barked "Private Dinsmore You are out of uniform! Get your shit together or I'm gonna give you an article 15!" I didn't have clue what was wrong, and after a while I just went back to to him and admitted it to him. He barked " You are wearing the wrong fucking rank Private First Class! " ........ I had to borrow some rank because I didn't have PFC rank pins. I wasn't expecting to be promoted for another month or two. I've always wondered if the first incident, caused the second incident??

Response by Sgt Jamie Grippin made Jun 5 at 2016 4:53 PM

2016-06-05T16:53:57-04:00

I was walking from the flight line in Yuma back to the barracks in my flight suit and piss-cutter. In the Helo community enlisted aircrew wear the octigan camouflage cover and the officers wear the piss cover (garrison cover). In the KC-130 community Everyone just wears the piss-cutter. Another Marine was approaching and as he got closer I could see he was looking me over and I could see he was a senior enlisted but not enough detail let me know who was approaching. About the same time as I could discern who was coming towards me he throws up a very nice and crisp solute and at that same time we are close enough so he can see there are no bars on my cover and the patch on my flight suit reads CPL. I can now see that the individual I am facing is the base SgtMaj. There are two things to keep in mind here. Most SgtMaj in the Marines will have spent some time on the drill field and two SgtMaj are never wrong.......... therefore when a SgtMaj salutes a CPL on a summer afternoon in the the Az desert life can rapidly deteriorate. But I lived to tell the story and today it's a fond memory of my time in Yuma.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2016 12:12 PM

2016-06-09T12:12:53-04:00

Afghanistan, 2009. I was an IS2 wearing Army ACUs with Navy insignia. Now from a distance my E-5 crow looks vaguely similar to a Colonel's bird, I admit. I expect confused stares from soldiers and airmen. That's a given. But from a Navy SEAL Senior Chief and a company of Marines?!?!

One day I'm walking back to my camp from Dragon DFAC. It was a good day, sun was shining, base was quiet. Two Army officers pass by me the opposite direction and I promptly deliver a salute. Close behind was a SEAL Senior Chief (E-8 for those who don't know) in their distinctive desert camo with trident. I guess he wasn't paying attention to me but just saw the two officers in front of him salute as I passed. At any rate, this Navy E-8 (did I mention he was a SEAL?) salutes me, this lowly Navy E-5 who doesn't leap tall buildings in single bounds. I promptly respond "Good morning, Senior Chief!" His response...."Aw shit! Uh, Good morning..."

Then....same damn day!

I was walking down Disney drive when I was passed by an entire company of Marines walking single file the opposite direction. Eye contact and greetings were made all along. Until I got to the last 10 Marines. One of them saw my rank and quickly popped a salute. The next three in line followed suit, clearly not paying attention to me but to their buddy up front. They're walking too fast for me to correct them properly but I suddenly hear "AW SHIT! That guy was Navy!" This was followed by the requisite ribbing from the rest of the witnesses.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2016 12:53 PM

2016-06-09T12:53:25-04:00

Just curious....has any officer on here received a salute from Berghdahl since he came back? I'm just wondering about the experience.

Response by SSG Ronald Limbaugh made Aug 22 at 2016 3:15 PM

2016-08-22T15:15:17-04:00

So, while serving with the 506th, in Korea, late 90's, we had a new 2LT. One of the PVTs in the company was walking and about to turn the corner of one of the barracks buildings at the same time the new LT was approaching the same corner from the opposite side. PVT did not have enough reaction time and passed right by LT. LT proceeds to chew into PVT. Several of us us Senior SPCS happen to catch the exchange. For the next few weeks we made sure to travel around camp in packs and greet new LT with tactical salute formation. 5 meter interval and staggered. LT finally caught on and begged the mafia to cut it out.

Response by Lt Col Robert Canfield made Nov 10 at 2016 11:26 AM

2016-11-10T11:26:55-05:00

Our AFROTC Commandant of Cadets (Captain) told us the story about when he was first commissioned a 2nd Lt. He was walking out of a building, saw a guy in blue uniform and saluted him. It turns out he saluted the mailman.

Response by SSG Johnnie Vaughn made Jan 13 at 2017 8:32 PM

2017-01-13T20:32:39-05:00

January 1979, Fort William D. Davis, Panama
PVT (Not PV2) Vaughn reports to his first duty station since graduating Fort Benning. With a Benning buzz cut. Wearing black BCGs. And khakis. Which have no rank insignia on the sleeve since he is an E-1.

I quickly found out that senior NCOs don't always have a sense of humor when they salute a buck private.

Response by Danielle Beacham made Jun 17 at 2017 2:24 AM

2017-06-17T02:24:31-04:00

I was at Bootcamp and had to get some work done on my eyes. So on my way back to my compartment. All I could see were pants. Well Chief Petty Offier on up to Admiral where khaki pants with their NSU uniforms. And I ended up calling an officer a chief. And forgot to slute

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2017 7:02 PM

2017-11-14T19:02:01-05:00

Couple of stories, none since I became a chaplain.
Pre-chaplain life I was a midshipman in rotc at Georgia Tech. I’d had Colors in the afternoon before going home for the weekend, and was going to help my high school army jrotc at the football game, so i was in khakis. Apparantly a Chief Petty Officer from the town had been asked to sing the National anthem, very nicely done, but as i was talking to some of the jrotc cadets, i see him out of the corner of my eye, kind of doing the sideways-walk-looking-at-something-without-wanting-to-be-seen walk. He was totally focusing on my garrison cover with the MIDN anchor and eisenhower jacket with absolutely nothing. You know, “what the heck is that, and do i salute it?” So as i was still talking I did the subtlest “no” headshake i could, which must have relieved him because he came right over and talked with us.
Second story. NROTC at Tech again. MIDN officers wear a series of small gold bars on their khaki collars and garrison coverts. AFROTC wears other stuff. Tech had Army ROTC, but only 12 cadets. AFROTC c/1LT passes our MIDN XO, A MIDN CDR, and doesnt salute, but proceeds to stop the group with him and chew them all out, at which point the MIDN CDR literally pulls on his collar and says *bling*. Its like , 5 gold bars crammed onto his collar. The c/1LT was saluting a while.
Last story, told to us staff officers at fork and knife school. A medical service guy was commissioned a LTJG (O-2); on the dress blues thats a 1/2” stripe and a 1/4” stripe. He was proud of himself apparantly, and as he walked out of the O-club post-graduation, he saw a gentleman with only one stripe approaching. Basking in his one and a half stripe, he waited for the lowly one-striper to salute. When the one-striper failed to salute, he stopped the gentleman, “excuse me, but just a pointer on naval courtsey, I have two stripes, that means i’m a lieutenant. You only have one stripe Ensign, so you’re supposed to salute me.” The guy with the one-stripe officer leans in and says, “um, lieutenant, his ‘one stripe’ is pretty thick. As in, Admiral thick. This is Rear Admiral XXXXX.” (Navy 1-stars wear a 2” stripe). Needless to say, that LTJG got to have a looooong discussion with his former teachers at fork and knife school.
I’ve already posted elsewhere the story of my dad shocking the 1st Cav MajGen because “a dental officer knew how to salute!”

Response by SP5 Douglas Andriole made Nov 13 at 2019 7:56 PM

2019-11-13T19:56:02-05:00

I was stationed at USARV HQ in Long Binh in 1969-70 and was walking toward the building I worked in one day after mess with a good friend. We were arguing about something and I was facing him (to my right) and he suddenly started poking me in the side and I was pissed so I pushed him and then looked up and General Creighton Abrams was about 5 feet away from me. I saluted so quickly I knocked off my boonie hat and saw Abrams chuckle as returned my half ass salute as he walked by. Glad he had a sense of humor !!!!!!

Response by SPC Kay Seiler made Nov 13 at 2019 7:58 PM

2019-11-13T19:58:07-05:00

When I was in basic training, I was walking and suddenly noticed that the driver of an oncoming vehicle was an officer so I saluted. It caught him so off guard that he saluted me with his left hand.

Response by SGT Jamie Lundy made Nov 13 at 2019 8:14 PM

2019-11-13T20:14:44-05:00

I was a recruit in boot camp. Ft Rucker, 1966. Walking along minding my own business, I met two officers, and when it became apparent that my path would take me between the two, I panicked. Not wanting to slight either, I saluted with both hands. They both laughed out loud, and I got to drop and give them 20.

Response by SSgt Stephanie Stannard made Nov 13 at 2019 8:25 PM

2019-11-13T20:25:59-05:00

I was at my tech school, a rankless E-1, where we had members of foreign militaries attending for their own education. I shattered my arm, was finally out of the sling, and on my way to a medical appointment when I saw an officer from one of the foreign branches advancing. At the time, I could not salute. My right arm was the one I shattered and when they pierced it back together, it wouldn’t fully rotate, so when I raised my arm, my palm would be facing the sky, and I’d been informed since I couldn’t do it correctly, not to salute. Not knowing protocol as to whether I we’re technically required to salute or not, I adjusted course down a side path to avoid him before we got close to be on the safe side, then turned around and waited for him to pass. Of course, this happened to be the way he was going and nearly ran into me. He froze, I froze. He waited a few seconds and then looked at my rankless sleeves and immediately saluted me. I instantly panicked and waved for him to lower his hands, explaining I was an enlisted trainee and unable to salute. We were both horribly embarrassed but it gave us both a good laugh

Response by CPL Mark Bradberry made Nov 13 at 2019 8:46 PM

2019-11-13T20:46:50-05:00

Basic combat training, Fort Bliss Texas, March 1977. Me and another trainee were double timing across the parking lot as trainees always double time. My friend was smoking a cigarette in his right hand as we approached a captain. We continued to double time not yet learning the proper way to salute and my friend saluted with his left hand holding a cigarette in his right. The captain ordered us to halt and fortunately he was a chaplain. He explained the proper procedure and had us back up and do it again.

Response by CW2 Chris Roberts made Nov 13 at 2019 8:49 PM

2019-11-13T20:49:12-05:00

Walking into the PX at Camp Taji, I saluted a Marine 2nd Lt. He didn't return the salute, just said, "Don't salute me Private! We are in a warzone!"

Response by SSG Sean Chambers made Nov 13 at 2019 8:49 PM

2019-11-13T20:49:49-05:00

Basic Training, Ft Sill, OK, 1992. I was a slick sleeve private sent to do police call in an area I hadn't been before. I see a Marine Lt Col approaching, and quickly run through what my course of action should be. Somehow, in my 19 y/o private brain, I arrive at the conclusion that since he's a Marine, and I'm Army, there surely mustn't exist an inter-service expectation of rendering respect and courtesy, right? So I didn't salute that jarhead light colonel. He took notice of that fact.

--- Turns out there is, in fact, an inter-service expectation of rendering respect and courtesy. It also turns out that USMC 0-5s are quite adept at educating and communicating with dumbass Army privates on said courtesies. He hurt me, y'all! Wow. Just wow...

Response by SPC Daniel Mason made Nov 13 at 2019 8:55 PM

2019-11-13T20:55:21-05:00

I had to show up earlier then most to do extra PT one morning and when I packed, of course, I did it at the last minute. After PT I went to change into uniform and noticed in my scrambling while packing I ended up packing one summer boot and one winter boot, I figured that since I was a 13 wide it might still work and nobody would notice. 30 seconds out of the door of the changing room a sergeant stopped my noticing me wearing 2 left boots and the nickname Lefty the Firefighter began.

Response by A1C Bob Leonard made Nov 13 at 2019 9:01 PM

2019-11-13T21:01:11-05:00

After an incident with a truck, I lost my rank and had become a "slick sleeve." It was threatening rain and I was wearing my 1505's (USAF) with a rain cover on my cap. Two officers walked by and threw me a salute.......which I promptly returned. They got about 5 feet before they realized what they had done. One of them yelled, "AIRMAN!" He proceeded to read me the riot act to which I responded, "Hey, you saluted ME. I was just returning the respect. He had no argument and moved on

Response by MSG Donald Phagan made Nov 13 at 2019 9:06 PM

2019-11-13T21:06:33-05:00

I was just out of boot camp and I had just walked out of the dentist office with a numb mouth and gums when I met a Navy officer as I approached the PX. I snapped a sharp salute but he just frowned me and ignored me. I stopped him with a loud , "Sir don't you return salutes to Marines?" He replied, "Not when they have a cigarette hanging from the side of their mouth private!" Ouch.

Response by SSG Charles Walker made Nov 13 at 2019 9:15 PM

2019-11-13T21:15:18-05:00

When I arrived at my first duty station (Ft. Carson); Two other privates and I was walking from the Mess Hall and a jeep passed by. All of a sudden the Jeep stopped and reversed back toward us and a General asked us a question. He said "Do you know why you are all privates?" we jump to attention and said No Sir in unison. He said "because you don't salute jeeps" and told us next time we see a vehicle like his again salute.

Response by MSG Donald Phagan made Nov 13 at 2019 9:15 PM

2019-11-13T21:15:50-05:00

In the airborne units we greeted our officers with "All the Way" as we saluted them and they returned our salute with "Airborne". I met a none airborne officer and saluted him one day and had to stand at attention and be rescued by a passing NCO who convinced him that I did not order him to get out of my way.

Response by SPC Mary Wicklander made Nov 13 at 2019 9:16 PM

2019-11-13T21:16:27-05:00

This may not be a funny story, but it is a well-deserving one. I was driving the Battalion Commander to a field operation after a heavy rainfall in Washington State at Fort Lewis. We came upon a body of water covering the road and I asked him if we should drive around it. He told me to continue onward. So, I drove 'onward' and we ended up nose-diving into the HUGE dip in the road and started sinking. We jumped onto the hood of the jeep I was driving and then jumped onto the dry land. We had to run back to the main highway because my feet got wet from the water that flooded into the jeep and thought that would keep my feet from freezing. Finally, we came upon a car that was heading from Fort Lewis. She recognized that I was a female and chose to stop and ask if we needed help. I saw stars on a hat on her passenger seat which had more stars than my commanders. I mentioned it to my commanding officer. He also thought that it must belong to her and we saluted her and stated our situation. It turns out the hat belonged to her child son and they were just coming back from a friends on the base. She was so embarrassed by the salute and we all started laughing. But, the best part was, she drove us back to our unit. We were able to 'salute' her back with a merit for her kind troubles. It is a great memory for me.

Response by Sgt Ricky Varney made Nov 13 at 2019 9:18 PM

2019-11-13T21:18:15-05:00

I was a recruit at Parris Island and we were having a General inspection. As he left me he stood in front of the next recruit. He took the recruits' rifle to inspect it then stopped, looked right at the recruit and asked the recruit if he knew what a button was for. When the recruit said yes the General then asked if he knew how to use one and the again the recruit answered yes. Then the General told him to reach up and button the pocket that was unbuttoned so the recruit reached up and buttoned the Generals' button on his blouse. The General was so shocked that he just gave the recruit his weapon back and walked away and did not finish the rest of the inspection.

Response by SSgt Daniel Roten made Nov 13 at 2019 9:22 PM

2019-11-13T21:22:41-05:00

Boot camp, practicing salutes after chow in the mirror. Marching, halting and busting a crisp salute out. I walked up, maintaining pristine military bearing, busted out my best salute and said “Good afternoon, sir” my MTI yelled at me “It’s good morning, dummy!” Being a good airman I promptly yelled out while maintaining that crisp line “Good morning, dummy!” My MTI lost his military bearing for the first and only time for the duration of boot camp.

Response by SPC Willie Rodriguez made Nov 13 at 2019 9:30 PM

2019-11-13T21:30:53-05:00

I was in Crailsheim Germany 1982 I was walking and walking towards me was a major i saluted the major and I didn’t forgot I had a cigarette in my mouth i saluted the major and kept on walking,I took a deep breath thinking that I was safe.when suddenly I heard the major private Rodriguez get down give me 20 and sound off that was my craziest salute ever

Response by MSG Izy Veguillacruz made Nov 13 at 2019 9:32 PM

2019-11-13T21:32:17-05:00

One day in Bagram Afghanistan my Maj and I were walking to the DFAC and there were two young privates walking towards us and one was carry a box with food, when the Soldiers approach us they saw the Major and the empty handed PVT saluted and with his left hand placed it over the other Soldiers head gear and saluted for him. Before I can react my Major said Private WHAT ARE YOU DOING and he said saluting for my battle buddy sir, we had to explain that while his battle buddy hands were full only he salutes. When we got to the DFAC I have never laughed so hard in my life.

Response by CPL Olaf De Koning made Nov 13 at 2019 9:41 PM

2019-11-13T21:41:10-05:00

I was in Vietnam with the 4th. Infantry Division, happened to be in the Base Camp (Camp Enari) and was still a PFC. They made us do "police call" in the field and I was wearing my CO's 45 ACP, since I was to go into Pleiku later and wanted to be armed. We were doing this police call 12 abreast and this FNG, a private, was policing next to me and noticed my .45. He thinks, "This must be an officer....he's wearing a pistol!" He gets my attention, salutes me and asks me if I would like him to police wrappers and cigarette butts FOR ME and him! Man, did I break into laughter! Never did tell him I was a PFC, though my rank insignia was on my sleeve!

Response by SGT Kevin Hughes made Nov 13 at 2019 9:44 PM

2019-11-13T21:44:35-05:00

I was a Sergeant and as Soldier of the Month was invited to sit on the Parade Stand with all the Brass. I sat next to a General who asked me if I was intimidated by all the Rank around me. "No, Sir."
"Why not Sergeant?" "Well Sir, you only have two stars...I have three stripes." For a moment I thought he was going to move me down to two stripes. Instead, he laughed out loud and said: For the rest of the day you will give three salutes to every Officer. " And I did. Sgt Kevin Hughes, 25th Inf. Div.

Response by PO3 Nicholas Richards made Nov 13 at 2019 9:46 PM

2019-11-13T21:46:47-05:00

While at RTC Greatlakes in the middle of a winter storm I had all four of my wisdom teeth removed. On my way back to the barracks I passed a Lt., and a Masterchief I saluted but didn’t address them they turned around and yelled at me get back her recruit, I turned around and approached them like ordered and the Lt. said have they not taught you how to address an officer as you pass them, I shook my head, he then told me to answer him, so with my mouth full of blood and gauze I tried to address him properly and blood started running down my the side mouth and all I could do was mumble. The Lt. just shook his head mad as he could be and said just get back to your barracks recruit. I saluted done an about faced and went back to my bunk. When my chief came in she called me down to her office and said don’t you know better then to ignore an officer so I tried talking agin and blood from the gauze came out of my mouth again and she just died laughing and said don’t worry I just wanted to see if you were the one the master chiefs were talking about in the mess hall they enjoyed watching the Lt. get so frustrated and have to tell you to just go back to your bunk.

Response by SSgt Alvin Case made Nov 13 at 2019 9:48 PM

2019-11-13T21:48:06-05:00

I was walking down the street at Ft. Irwin, California when I saw a Hummer approaching me head on. On the front was a tag with two stars, it was the Post Commander . Our National Guard Unit had moved in the night before. I guess The General was checking us out. I thought The General probably thinks there are a lot of duds on his post now, so I thought I'd mess with him. I didn't salute until the Hummer was so close I could have touched it. I popped my salute and looked at The General. He had a big grin on his face. He knew I was messing with him but he didn't let me know and I'm glad.

Response by PO1 Laura Rodgers made Nov 13 at 2019 9:50 PM

2019-11-13T21:50:09-05:00

I didn’t quite understand what my CCs in boot camp meant by saluting vehicles with the blue sticker so I saluted every one...to stay out of trouble! I eventually figured it out.

Response by Sgt Robert Womack made Nov 13 at 2019 9:55 PM

2019-11-13T21:55:56-05:00

My story took place in the Philippines during the Vietnam War. One of our many tasks was configuring the C141 aircraft for Air Evac. Realize, airmen do not wear hats on the flight line as they can be sucked into jet engines and you do not solute without being in full military uniform. With that said, as I came around the side of the aircraft I came face to face with General Westmorland, Commander of all forces in the Pacific. He immediately smiled and popped to solute me...I knew he outranked me so it was my thought to solute him and be quicker so I reciprocated and made the solute first as his hand was coming up to his temple. Little did I know as I was being observed by the squadron commander who ordered the first sergeant to chew me out for saluting a superior officer without a hat on. As I received the chastisement, the commander came to observe. When I was asked why I did such a break in protocol, my answer was he saluted me first, what else could I do...and he didn't have a hat on either. The commander said that he had to apologize for my behavior to the general. When he returned, he told the first sergeant and I that the general told him he did not need to apologize as his intention was to solute me for all the work we all did bringing the wounded back home to American Hospitals. Moreover, he stated that I returned his solute in a proper military manner and he was pleased with my military bearing and our squadron.

Response by CAPT Robert Riding made Nov 13 at 2019 9:58 PM

2019-11-13T21:58:02-05:00

While at TBS (The Basic School,) Quantico VA, 1968. One morning, while walking with another new Marine second lieutenant, we had just finished breakfast and were going from the mess hall back to O'Bannon Hall, our barracks. We approached a Major coming our way and saluted him with a "Good Morning, Sir!" The major said, good-naturedly, "Good morning men." and then said to my friend: "I'm glad you didn't poke your eye out, Lieutenant!" Unfortunately for the other lieutenant, he had a banana in his right hand when he saluted. It could have been big trouble for my friend but the Major just laughed it off and went on his way. A tender mercy for sure . . .

Response by PO3 Mat Mulqueen made Nov 13 at 2019 10:01 PM

2019-11-13T22:01:37-05:00

Midnight watch gate at receiving station, 1956, dead of winter in Boston. A.M. Car pulls up to gate I jump up out my warm booth rush out to drop the chain into the snow . Seeing gold on the collar of a uniform, with gusto to show I was not sleeping, I threw my best salute of the evening. The occupant lowered his window , and told me it was not necessary to salute him as he was a Red Cross representative, not an officer. To cover my foolish move and cover my assets, I explained it was not him but the organization I was saluting.

Response by Col Mike Madison made Nov 13 at 2019 10:01 PM

2019-11-13T22:01:52-05:00

I was a brand new 2nd Lt that had just arrived for flight school at Reese AFB, TX. I was nervous about my upcoming training and was full of anxiety as I approached the Wing HQ building to sign in and start my in-processing. As I rounded an outside corner to head to the building's entrance I came face to face with a towering, sharp dress man. He was grey haired, about 6'4", had stripes seemingly extending down to his wrist and possessed a rack of ribbons about the size of my head. Without thinking, my training kicked in and I saluted smartly and exclaimed "Good morning Sir!" He laughed out loud as he sharply returned my salute...that's how I met the Wing's Command Chief Master Sergeant!!!

Response by LtCol Donald Hawkins made Nov 13 at 2019 10:04 PM

2019-11-13T22:04:50-05:00

As a young Marine Corps 2ndLt, I walked out of a building on an Army post in Georgia about 20 seconds ahead of my wife. While walking towards the parking lot, an Army specialist approached, made eye contact, smiled, and walk past without saluting. I stopped the specialist and quickly, did a spot correction. As the specialist walked away, a loud voice from a second story window yelled down to me... "Sir!", "SIR!"... "YOUR COVERS ON BACKWARDS SIR!" My wife, who witnessed the whole thing from a distance burst out laughing! For the rest of my career, whenever I put on my cover I habitually touched the EGA to confirm it was on correctly. To this day, my wife still enjoys telling that story!

Response by PO3 Jim Longley made Nov 13 at 2019 10:11 PM

2019-11-13T22:11:42-05:00

A breechblock for my 5 inch gun got dropped on my right ring finger, and it broke. The corpsman on the ship strung the finger back together and left a piece of wire sticking out of each end and then wrapped it up so I couldn't bend the finger.

I walked out of sick bay and out on deck and there was the Captain and XO, so I whipped off a snappy salute, and stabbed myself in the forehead with the wire.

Response by MAJ L Scott made Nov 13 at 2019 10:26 PM

2019-11-13T22:26:27-05:00

Now that is funny.

Response by Sgt Arthur Wolfenson made Nov 13 at 2019 10:34 PM

2019-11-13T22:34:26-05:00

Being a Christian at Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska, I wanted to see whether or not a full bird colonel knew Jesus. If he answered favorably, then I would know that he was a believer, and if unfavorably, an unbeliever. So, one day, I asked him, "How's Jesus today sir?" Well, things didn't go too well as he went to my superiors and demanded an apology from me. I didn't quite understand what I had done wrong, but later found out that he was new to the base and his nickname was "Little Jesus"...and when I asked what I did, I had insulted him. I guess that it is a little too late now for an apology as that happened in 1972.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 13 at 2019 10:38 PM

2019-11-13T22:38:34-05:00

I was leaving the medical center and I was on crutches and I saluted to a LT with my crutches. He got a good laugh out of it and then told me not to do that again

Response by PO2 Chris Johnson made Nov 13 at 2019 10:39 PM

2019-11-13T22:39:21-05:00

I was in boot camp in 1986 at RTC Great Lakes, Company 909. My company was comprised of the drill team, band and chorus (Triplethreat). We had just finished singing and exited the stage and were gathered in the lobby with our Company Commander. Out of nowhere came Rear Admiral Roberta Hazzard. She was coming over to thanks us. Simultaneously, we saluted as she extended her hand to the recruit next to me. He was so flustered that he took her hand and bent over and kissed it. Instead of saluting and shaking her hand he kissed it! It was one of the funniest moments in boot camp. My Company Commander, BTCS Antonio Ruba chewed the recruit out when we got back to the barracks, then went into his office, slammed the door and laughed his butt off.

Response by LCpl Laura Townsend made Nov 13 at 2019 10:44 PM

2019-11-13T22:44:17-05:00

My boyfriend at the time was borrowing my car while driving on base. He was in uniform and his seat belt wasn't fastened correctly. He said that as he was driving there were several people that saluted him as he drove by and he didn't know why. As he was getting out of the car he noticed that the seat belt buckle had been resting on his shoulder.

Response by LTC Lynn Baker made Nov 13 at 2019 10:47 PM

2019-11-13T22:47:52-05:00

During Infantry Officer Candidate School at Ft Benning in 1968 it was required that junior candidates salute senior candidates. To add our twist of humor we would salute senior candidates and say "corn syrup " very quickly. It worked until you ran across a senior candidate that had done the same when he was junior.

Response by CMDCM James Ryan made Nov 13 at 2019 10:51 PM

2019-11-13T22:51:07-05:00

I was in Peal Harbor and in the parking lot of NEX. I was in uniform and was a Command Master Chief. There were reserve parking signs up with a star (flag parking only). As I approached one of the spaces a Rear Admiral was exiting his vehicle. I saluted him and said "excuse me Admiral, but I have two stars, doesn't that mean I can park there". The admiral replied "absolutely Master Chief, do you want me to move"?

Response by SFC Ray Andrews made Nov 13 at 2019 10:51 PM

2019-11-13T22:51:29-05:00

When I was in basic training at Ft Jackson SC in 1976, they used a lot of dummies: I was running across a field and man was I tired. I was so tired I took a rest on one of the hills and I looked and thought I was talking to someone and so I said whats going on, I look again and it was one of the dummies I was talking to.

Response by LCpl Stanley Wilcox made Nov 13 at 2019 11:05 PM

2019-11-13T23:05:33-05:00

I was in boot camp & was at the rifle range . I had the M14 on my right shoulder waiting my turn when the DI yelled at me to get the lieutenant a cup of coffee. When getting the coffee I switched the rifle to my left hand, carrying the coffee back in my right, of course the salute did not go as played

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 13 at 2019 11:10 PM

2019-11-13T23:10:33-05:00

Not one I did, but a friend in basic. We were in formation marching back to the dorms when she saw a vehicle with a star license plate on it, so she saluted. It was a few moments later she realized it was a Dallas Cowboys plate

Response by SSgt Roger Workman made Nov 13 at 2019 11:12 PM

2019-11-13T23:12:53-05:00

I was new to my first duty station at San Vito Italy fresh out of tech school and while standing outside of the compound I saw a very attractive young woman approaching and I gave her a really cool and confident how are you with a huge smile and she gave me the very same in return and as she passed and I was looking at her as she walked away a light bulb came on in my head brightly showing me the 2nd Lieutenant bars on her uniform

Response by SPC Joseph Garwood made Nov 13 at 2019 11:19 PM

2019-11-13T23:19:41-05:00

Well, in basic and AIT at Benning in 1987, we were learning rank and how to salute. During the entire 13 weeks none of us ever saw a single female except for the 2 day leave between basic and AIT. So....durring basic we were learning rank and occasionally one of the drill Sgt's would walk by with any of the officer ranks for training/saluting purposes. AND not once did any of these times ever include a female. So maybe I was in sleep mode when they said "salute the rank" ....when we got to Alaska (we were a cohort unit) the second or 3rd day there, my buddy mike and I were walking back from the bowling alley and I saw Capt bars coming at me. But I kind of froze up from confusion and the beauty in the uniform. SHE was drop dead gorgeous. Mike had no problem saluting I just walked by in awe. Then I hear the screeching voice of that captain rank saying "wait just a GOD DAMN MINUTE PRIVATE!!" I stoped turned around and she proceeded to chew my ass up and down, made me do some push ups after I told her I didn't know I needed to salute a woman. Well that didn't go over too well, I heard quite a bit of gasping with the audience......and then she politely asked my first Sgt's name and what company I was with. I was fresh out of basic and still had no hair. 4 minutes later as I walked into our barrack my 1st Sgt yelled at me and my ass to get into his office. I walked in and 1st Sgt Capistrano asked me what the f--k I was thinking. I just said top, I never saluted a woman in basic and I didn't think it was necessary. (I said that in a very matter of fact way and was dead serious) He was unable to speak for 10-15 minutes because he was laughing so hard. And that is how I became his favorite. JDG 5th Bat 9th Inf Reg MANCHU 6th Infantry Div Arctic Light fort wainwright AK 1987-1990.

Response by Sgt Richard Bini made Nov 13 at 2019 11:20 PM

2019-11-13T23:20:45-05:00

I as stationed at NKP Thailand at the 6908th Security Squadron. The Air FOrce chief of staff and his entire entourage was visiting our unit. I was walking from our ops vans back into the operations building going on a break. ALthough this was outside a building, it was considered an "uncovered" area. As I walked around the blast walls protecting our vans, I ran right into our squadron commander (a major)escorting the Air Force Chief of staff and an entire galaxy of other stars and a flock of birds (colonels). Since I did not have a hat on and this was an uncovered area, saluting would have been inappropriate, so i just said "HI,Maj..." Without batting an eye, he just said Hi, and introduced me to the General, then asked me to take the general's car around to the front of the building for him, which I promptly did...

Response by SGT Casseniette Poulos made Nov 13 at 2019 11:29 PM

2019-11-13T23:29:07-05:00

I was walking along, cables in one hand and a cigarette in the other. A Jeep with stars came along. I couldn’t decide what to do so I didn’t do anything. The General called me over. Chewed me out and dismissed me. I still didn’t salute. I had to give an hour class on military customs to the NCO’s in the battalion.

Response by COL Dewell Cooper made Nov 13 at 2019 11:29 PM

2019-11-13T23:29:40-05:00

While attending the Security Police School at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas I was selected to be one of the Student Leaders. As such, we were sent to the Junior NCO Academy prior to starting the Security Police training. During this leadership training, we were taught how to do many basic Drill and Ceremonies functions as well as intensive instruction on military customs and traditions. We then were assigned to the positions we would hold through the remainder of the career-field training which would follow. I graduated as the Student Flight Leader and my classmate graduated as the assistant. These positions were designated by a gold shoulder braid and a red shoulder braid worn on the uniform. During this time, trainees began saluting the Student Leaders, and we would return the salute, with the left hand.

One particular morning as we were marching to class, I saw a Staff Car with the Blue Flags and Front Plate of a Lieutenant General (the Base Commander) traveling down the road towards us. I gave my Flight the command to dress (straighten their ranks) and be aware of the approaching Staff Car. As the Staff Car reached the proper distance (by my estimate) I gave the "Eyes, Left!" command and render ed a salute as the Staff Car passed. I then gave the command "Front!" and we continued to march.

Soon, I noticed that a vehicle was pacing me on my left and I glanced over to see a Staff Car's front bumper with a Blue Flag and three White Stars on it waving in the breeze as it drove along. I halted the Flight and had them stand, at parade rest. I then went to the passenger side, the rear door of the Staff Car as the window slid down to reveal the Base Commander, a Lieutenant General (whose name I cannot recall), and reported as required. He then asked who we were and where we were off to and I answered his questions. He commented as to what a fine-looking Student Flight we were and hoped we would fare well in our day's activities.

He also added: “The actual reason I turned around to chat with you this morning was, to compliment you on a perfectly executed left-hand salute. Carry on!” With that, I thanked him, executed the best RIGHT-HAND salute of my life. After he returned my salute, I took one-step to the rear, made a right-face, and went back to my position at the Student Flight, beet-red-faced as could be, as the Staff Car drove on.

Response by A1C Linda Stilson made Nov 13 at 2019 11:32 PM

2019-11-13T23:32:55-05:00

It was raining out and I was holding an umbrella in my right hand when a couple officers walked by. I quickly switched my umbrella over to my left hand so I could salute but couldn’t stop laughing nervously. The officers laughed and said “carry on!”

Response by CW4 Jeff Cross made Nov 13 at 2019 11:33 PM

2019-11-13T23:33:56-05:00

At the time I was a Staff Sergeant in the Air Force, stationed at Wilford Hall Medical Center. I was walking from my building to the main hospital and passed a fellow Air Force member. After I passed, he called me over and said, "I'm not big on saluting, but if any Officers see you pass a Major without saluting, you'll probably hear it." I told him, "Sir, I'm sorry I didn't now you were a Major, you have no rank on you collar or cover." He checked his cover and uniform shirt, and said, "Damn, I thought my wife had put my rank on everything!" He apologized, and changed direction to go to Military Clothing.

Response by SPC Connie Scroggins made Nov 13 at 2019 11:39 PM

2019-11-13T23:39:05-05:00

Mine wasn’t the least bit funny at the time, but now I can sort of laugh about it. I was a lowly E2, walking across a fairly empty dirt parking lot towards a building. 2 soldiers in a deuce-and-a-half thought it would be hilarious to chase me with the truck. They were kicking up dirt and going in circles around me. I was running, holding onto my hat, dodging, trying to stay alive. Finally after a few minutes they flew too close beside me and took off. After righting my almost-toppled self and trying to see through the cloud of dirt, I ran face to face (literally!) with a couple of captains. Still trying to hold my hat and regain my balance, one barked at me “don’t you know how to salute an officer?” I was still so frazzled that I couldn’t speak. I pointed to the truck, pointed to myself, and straightened my hat. He barked at me again “I said don’t you know how to salute an officer??” I know they saw what had happened but didn’t care about anything but their egos. “Yes sir”, I saluted. Talk about humiliating!!

Response by AN Patti Pierce made Nov 13 at 2019 11:53 PM

2019-11-13T23:53:54-05:00

Port Watch Leading Petty Officer, me. Company Commander walked in the door beside me as I folded clothes. I politely said, “hello Mam”, THEN I realized what I’d just done.

Response by SPC Ray Rigsby made Nov 13 at 2019 11:58 PM

2019-11-13T23:58:29-05:00

I crewed a couple Helicopters for a guy named Shanahan. He wore a couple of those star things on his shoulders. He required half of a hanger for security reasons. His half was roped off with no entry signs hanging every 10 feet. The hanger was shared with a UH-1 crew. One day a butter bar came calling while I was under an AC. I heard him saying he wanted me in front of him in a hurry when I saw 4 more feet show up. It got real quiet, then I heard Shanahan say, WTF are you doing in my gawd damn hanger, Mister!? CPT. Harden who came in with Shanahan escorted the butter bar outside and gave him a very stern lecture about talking to Shanahans one and only Crew Chief. If you think I didn't get a laugh out of that one you'd be wrong.

Response by SN Trevor Larson made Nov 14 at 2019 12:04 AM

2019-11-14T00:04:05-05:00

Was walking to chow on Sub Base Groton. Happened to be behind a Chief when we passed a butter bar (guy was maybe a year older than me). Chief didn't salute, but I did. Butter bar turns and tells Chief, "You didn't salute me, Chief."

Without missing a beat, and while I'm still standing there, saluting like an idiot (butter bar never returned the salute), Chief takes a quarter, flips it at the guy and says, "Go buy yourself a cookie" and just walks off. Butter bar stands there, mouth open, for a few seconds, then finally notices me and returns my salute with a quick robo-chop, and carries on.

Response by SSgt Phil Sigman made Nov 14 at 2019 12:07 AM

2019-11-14T00:07:23-05:00

The old Air Force light blue shirt and dark blue pants combo had shoulder boards for senior NCOs. Those guys got saluted by accident a time or two, lol.

Response by TSgt James Warfield made Nov 14 at 2019 12:11 AM

2019-11-14T00:11:55-05:00

This was years ago, it was I believe 1977. I was an augmentee with SP I put out on the fight line at an check entry point. It was an IG readiness evaluation. Unless they were on my list they did't get through. We also had a list of IG inspectors as well. A car pulled up to go through, I checked the driver's Id he was on the list, I checked the passenger and I couldn't find him on my list. I was just on my 3 year of being in the AF, I hadn't looked close at the rank, so I just knew that they were officers, due to the hat. My mind was thinking fast as I knew the procedures was to have the person exit the cart and lay on the ground until real SP showed up. I was frantic as I didn't want to jack up and officer. Anyway I was handing back the ID and was getting ready to tell the occupants to get out of the car and on the ground, as I handed the driver his and when I reached in the window to hand the Passenger his ID I saw the stars he was the inspector General and my list said no picture and just name. Well I pulled my head out of the driver's side window so fast I hit my head good, pop a salute and sent them on their way. It's been some 40 years and I still think of the world of S$#% I would have been if I had told the general to get out of the car..

Response by Sgt Alan Young made Nov 14 at 2019 12:20 AM

2019-11-14T00:20:56-05:00

Our CMR at Bien Hoa AB RVN in 1969 was an outdoor structure with a tin roof covering the walk around the mailboxes. As it had been pouring down rain I'd removed my hat for a minute to shake it out and while rounding a corner passed an officer. Split second chance meeting, no hat, walking quickly I neglected to salute. Checked the mailbox and while returning, turned the same corner and sure enough, met the same officer. Once again I failed to salute, only this time he stopped me, asked my name and organization and walked away. By the time I got back to the hut, there was a phone message ordering me to report to the base commanders office the following morning. I spent the next week, 2 hours each morning, reading on proper saluting techniques and requirements of when and where. Of all people to get tangled up with.

Response by SSG Herman Bauman made Nov 14 at 2019 12:25 AM

2019-11-14T00:25:10-05:00

When they came out with the Korean Service Medal, I put my brother in for it. It was sent to me and I then contacted my other brothers And we tricked the recipient into meeting with us. After I pinned the medal on him , I saluted him and received back one of the sharpest salutes I've ever seen. My brother was in his seventies at the time. I'll never forget it.

Response by Capt Jody Henderson made Nov 14 at 2019 12:25 AM

2019-11-14T00:25:48-05:00

There were about 100 nurses doctors, and other medics at Wichita Falls "salute school" that summer in 1972. We were taught to march (sorta), fitted for uniforms, etc. We were all newly minted officers, most with little military experience. We were instructed to keep a one dollar bill ready, that the tradition is to hand it to the first airman who saluted us. I don't suppose anyone had explained that to the many new recruits. That afternoon we saw many airmen standing, slack-jawed, holding a dollar!

Response by TSgt CharliAnn Olney made Nov 14 at 2019 12:26 AM

2019-11-14T00:26:54-05:00

Due to my position on Command Staff, I had a special sticker on my car that allowed me to enter secure areas. Therefore, I was frequently saluted by the younger SPs that did not know the difference. First you must know that I drove a spiffy 76 Truimph Spitfire. On this day I was in the process of moving from off base to Base housing. One of the last things to make the journey was my VERY LARGE Teddy Bear. Not able to fit him in the boot, I placed him in the passenger seat and buckled him in. Nice day, top down, I pulled through the gate. Very young Airman saluted the car and I lightly returned it. As I pulled the the gate I noticed he had not dropped the salute and had literally turned his body to follow my progress. Then it dawned on me why! I mean, just how many oversize Teddy Bears do you see strapped into the passenger seat of a sportscar? I waited until I was out of earshot, then laughed my head off. It really made my stressful moving day a little bit better!

Response by CMDCM James Ryan made Nov 14 at 2019 12:30 AM

2019-11-14T00:30:43-05:00

I was a Master Chief at Pearl Harbor, in uniform walking into the NEX when I noticed a vehicle parking in a space reserved for flag officers. It had a sign with a star designation reserved parking. As I approached the vehicle, a Rear Admiral was exiting the vehicle. I saluted him and said "excuse me Admiral, but I have two stars, shouldn't I be parking there"? He responded "absolutely Master Chief do you want me to move"?

Response by SSG Herman Bauman made Nov 14 at 2019 12:35 AM

2019-11-14T00:35:24-05:00

When I was in AIT, there were a few times a few of us had to leave class early and there were always a lot of officers in the area, Instead of walking together and all of us saluting all at once, we would spread out and they would have to return each of our salutes.

Response by SSgt Brad Mitzelfelt made Nov 14 at 2019 12:39 AM

2019-11-14T00:39:44-05:00

I was a SGT stationed at Marine Air Station Kaneohe Hawaii, in the late 90s, walking to the brigade HQ with a boot PFC. The brigade SGT MAJ was walking out of the building wearing camo utilities (BDUs for Army types). I saluted him and he returned it and kept walking. The PFC looked at me like... what just happened? The SGTMAJ (Kellogg) was a Medal of Honor recipient.

Response by 1stSgt John Harrison made Nov 14 at 2019 12:41 AM

2019-11-14T00:41:37-05:00

Imagine the line on a flight, then walk on the aircraft side of the line and let an army 2nd lieutenant come walking toward you, the right hand will begin to straighten and quiver in anticipation of THE SALUTE, as you go by wave hi, the lieutenant is so confused (he) will continue and salute. We laughed all the way to the snack bar.

Response by SP5 Richard Demers made Nov 14 at 2019 12:45 AM

2019-11-14T00:45:13-05:00

I was in AIT at Ft Devens. I was walking to class and had a smoke in my right hand when a car coming at me had Full Bird license plate, i couldn't switch hands fast enough so I gave a sharp left handed salute. The car stopped, backed up as i dropped the smoke and stepped on it. The Full Bird got out of the back seat to which point I came to attention, saluted with my right hand, and the Colonel returned it and as i thought I was going to get dressed down. Instead the Colonel shook my hand and told me that I gave him the smartest salute he had ever seen. Saluted me and got back into the car. Thank god I was in BDU's and he didn't see that I pissed my pants!!! (the last part was for dramatic effect, but I can tell you this... I was real close to it!)

Response by SSG Paul Lundquist made Nov 14 at 2019 12:53 AM

2019-11-14T00:53:29-05:00

I was a SP4 newly assigned to be a first-time squad leader without the benefit of any training. I led my squad to the motorpool every morning for motor stables. This morning, my guys were acting up, ticking me off somewhat and I wasn't thinking straight. When we got just outside the motorpool gate, I stopped them and was giving them what for when a major I didn't know was the Bn Exec walked up. I snapped to attention, called my squad to attention, and then gave the order to present arms instead of just myself saluting and reporting. Everyone saluted, including the Major who I could tell was trying to hold back a big laugh at my expense. I realized my mistake along with my squad, and we all laughed about it, lightening things up a bit, but they did give me a little more respect after. Shortly, my platoon sergeant sent me to my first leadership academy and that goof didn't happen again. I also heard about the story in retellings as the Major had related what happened to the motor sergeant.

Response by 1LT Steven Hirsch made Nov 14 at 2019 12:58 AM

2019-11-14T00:58:03-05:00

I was a SP4 and a new Russian language student at the Defense Language Institute after graduating from BCT at Ft. Ord in 1972. During our lunch break I walked down the hill to the base gym for a workout and was lost in my thoughts when Iooked up and realized I was quickly approaching a LTC on the sidewalk near the entrance. By the time I began to raise my hand to salute, I was so close to him that I would have committed battery! I jerked my hand to stop and must have had a very embarrassed look on my face.
"New at this game?" the LTC asked, wryly.
"Yes, Sir", I replied.
"Have a good workout," he said, and entered the gym door.

Response by Sgt George Reves made Nov 14 at 2019 1:02 AM

2019-11-14T01:02:18-05:00

I used to chase Officers down in the AAFES Parking lot. I came across a 2nd Lt that realized what was happening. He vehemently asked me to stop because he has to "salute everyone, Officers and Enlisted."

Response by Sgt Michelle Evans made Nov 14 at 2019 1:04 AM

2019-11-14T01:04:25-05:00

Coming out of the DCM's office one afternoon I saw an LT coming toward me up the street riding a bike. Being a lowly airman at the time, I had no choice but to salute, and once I saluted him he was required to salute back. He tried to do so and almost lost control of his bike!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2019 1:04 AM

2019-11-14T01:04:43-05:00

As an Infantryman assigned with the 25th Infantry division at Cuchi Vietnam, I recall arriving at base camp in a 2 1/2 ton truck and seeing all the soldiers running around with underwear due

Response by SP6 Anthony Myers made Nov 14 at 2019 1:05 AM

2019-11-14T01:05:45-05:00

It was 1983 I just returned from germany to 2/70 armor 24 inf div ft stewart ga where my lt was 2nd lt , afterward I understand he had beed a e-6 in the reserve befor his OSC, so I entered the medic platoon and saluted him said spc ***** reports for duty and he starts giggling like a little girl, through out my stay he continued giggling when he was saluted by anyone lower then him, and noticed he would sign songs with guys of his race down to pvts and show them perfured treatment, so what was I to do? the officers in the armor didnt care for him and higher ncos in the plt were fired when they c/o. I was so glad to leave there a year later

Response by Sgt Gary Witherow made Nov 14 at 2019 1:19 AM

2019-11-14T01:19:36-05:00

It was actually in boot camp. They sent me to get the orders for the squadron. For weeks, I had been used to saluting and saying, "Good Morning, Sir". As luck would have it, an officer was between myself and my destination. I was feeling quite the professional as I saluted him and said, "Good Morning, Sir". The problem was the fact that it was about 3:00 pm.

Response by PO3 Donald Fox made Nov 14 at 2019 1:26 AM

2019-11-14T01:26:55-05:00

I passed a Marine Captain, without saluting him, not noticing his rank. He told me to halt and after chewing me out, told me to salute him 100 times, so I wouldn’t forget, next time. I raised my right hand and held the salute. He said to continue and I told him it is customary to return the salute! We went our separate ways, without finishing the salute!

Response by LTC Cheryl Brown made Nov 14 at 2019 1:27 AM

2019-11-14T01:27:18-05:00

I (CPT) was walking on base near a picnic area in civilian clothes. Four senior NCOs at a picnic table cat called me as I passed them. I went straight home, put on my uniform and returned to their picnic area. I returned and saw that they were still there. While approaching them they all stood up and the most senior of them said, "Hello Ma'am, can we help you?" I took off my hat and very politely told them that a woman walked passed them about an hour ago and they yelled toward her and that woman was me. They collectively got very uncomfortable, raised their eyebrows in surprise, shuffled around and one by one apologized. I told them thank you, put my hat back on and left. I took about 10 steps and one of the NCOs called my name. I turned around and saw the 4 of them standing in line, shoulder to shoulder, at attention, saluting me. I saluted back, did an about face and smiled to myself as I got back into my car and drove away.

Response by Sgt Paul Conner made Nov 14 at 2019 1:27 AM

2019-11-14T01:27:42-05:00

Seven Marines and I were walking down a dirt road in Da Nang, Viet Nam not far from III MAF, headquarters for the Marines. Up ahead we see this convoy of vehicles coming toward us, one flying what it appears to be the commanding general’s flag. So I say, hey that’s the general coming we better salute, to which the majority of the group says (in more colorful language), no way man, we are in Nam, we don’t have to salute no generals. I wasn’t so sure, but went along with the majority. Bad decision!
The entire convoy came to a stop, a couple of officers jumped out of a jeep and threaten us as only officers can. They then marched us over to the general’s staff vehicle to execute a hand salute. After the convoy departed we stood at the side of the road, arguing about whose bright idea it was that we didn’t have to salute the general.

Response by A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney made Nov 14 at 2019 1:28 AM

2019-11-14T01:28:09-05:00

Airman David A. Libby & I had just gotten off duty & were headed to the Mail Room to pick up mail, our mail, when as fresh 2nd Lt.was walking our way unnoticed. was about 6:00 P.M., All of a sudden, when he had approached to about 3 or 4 feet from us, the 2nd Lt. Said. "What's the Matter Airmen, Don't You Know You're Supposed to Salute an Officer"?.... We were both caught off guard as we hadn't noticed his approach, But Dave Stopped & said "Lt. It's past 1700 hours, Sir. Are you not Familiar with Base Regulation (Blah Blah , Blah) which specifically states, 'Saluting after 1630 hours is no longer a requirement"?.. The 2nd Lt..Replied "I'm sorry, I wasn't aware of that, Thank You". And walked on... ..Then Dave and I just continued our trip to the Mail Room, Chuckling Under our Breath,.. That was Either the summer of 1962 or 1963. Little Rock AFB, Arkansas, Strategic Air Command,, Major Calvin L. Collier, Commander of the 825th Air Police Squadron....I was about 18 at the time... I joined on my 17th Birthday, 6/29/61, Basic at Lackland, AFB,. Discharged after returning from Osan AFB, S Korea,.. BEFORE Paved Roads or Barracks.. We lived in Quonset Huts, ...6/10/1965.. The Days of TRUE Adventure, !!

Response by LT Steven Buckley made Nov 14 at 2019 1:40 AM

2019-11-14T01:40:35-05:00

I was in boot camp and was holding onto all of my company's school books while the rest of the company was inside the chow hall eating. The books were not allowed inside the chow hall or be placed onto the ground, so one member of the company was required to remain outside the chow hall and hold everyone else's books while they ate. On this particular afternoon, i was holding everyone's books with both arms full, when I spotted two company commanders, deeply engaged in conversation, approaching the chow hall. I knew that protocol was to salute these two gentlemen as they approached me, but that was going to be impossible to do while holding onto all the books. These two were so engrossed in their conversation that I thought, maybe, just maybe, they will just walk right on past me without saying a word to me. As they approached and then past me, I thought whew...I got away with it, however, as they passed by me by about 10-15 feet, one of the two company commanders quickly turned toward me and shouted "Salute me clown!" I then felt I had no choice but to drop the books and salute. Just as all the books bounced onto the ground, the other company commander proceeded to chew me out for letting go of all the books...go figure!

Response by WO1 Craig L Wirth made Nov 14 at 2019 1:44 AM

2019-11-14T01:44:51-05:00

After about seven years as enlisted/NCO... I had recently graduated flight school where I had become a Warrant Officer Helicopter Pilot... My first duty station after graduating was Ft. Hood, TX. One day as I was walking across the parking lot to clothing sales, there was an armored van with an MP with a shotgun guarding it. As I was walking by him he quickly spun around, swinging his shotgun up towards me and I reflexively ducked and crouched down to prevent being hit by it. Everyone around was laughing so hard... turns out he was snapping to attention and he was saluting me with his shotgun. It all happened so fast... but I definitely avoided being hit with his weapon. People were laughing for a long time.

Response by MCPO Speed Dillon made Nov 14 at 2019 1:45 AM

2019-11-14T01:45:10-05:00

When I was first stationed in Vietnam I was at the MACV 2 Compound on Tran Hung Dao in Saigon when I walked by an Army Second Lt. and did not salute. He began to eat my a** out for 'Not Rendering a salute' . Since I was in the Navy and 'uncovered' I informed him that Sailors do not salute when we do not have our hats on. Then he said that since I was in an Army compound I'd have to follow Army Protocol . Just then a Navy Commander passed us (he was covered) and told the Second Lt. what I just said and that was that, I walked away, not saluting.

Response by GySgt Richard Espinoza made Nov 14 at 2019 1:49 AM

2019-11-14T01:49:05-05:00

My first week in Marine Corps Boot Camp I was assigned as a Company Runner. I had a rubber band that was removed from an envelope for some reason I held on to it. When our Company CO a hardcore Captain approached me forgetting the rubber band was in my hand I came to attention and saluted my commanding officer. He abruptly stopped and told me to freeze ripping me a new rear end for rendering an improper salute he then grabbed the rubber band stretching it out about 18 inches then released it snapping the hell out of my hand and cheek

Response by MSgt Lee Hartwig made Nov 14 at 2019 1:51 AM

2019-11-14T01:51:38-05:00

When I was an E-4 I was deployed to Al Jabber Air Base, Kuwait. The entire dayshift crew chiefs (aircraft mechanics) flight walked out of the chow hall and right past a very young looking 2Lt. The poor LT had this confused look on his face as NO ONE saluted him. Not one person. Literally nobody saluted this poor man. I was the last person walking out so he stopped me and said, "Excuse me Airman, is this a no-salute area?" I looked at him and said, "No, sir" and kept walking. I didn't salute him, either. Looking back, it was a dick move, but I had to back up my crew if ya know what I mean.

Response by SP5 Vicki Parrish made Nov 14 at 2019 1:54 AM

2019-11-14T01:54:27-05:00

I was just starting in basic training, passed someone with alll kinds of medals on his uniform. I saluted him, and he YELLED at me that he was NOT an officer! He was enlisted and worked for a !@#$! living.

I became sooo flustered that I saluted him with my left hand. I figured right for officers. Left for enlisted. He started yelling again. I started saluting with BOTH hands.

He just stood there glaring. Then shook his head, threw back his head and roared with laughter.

BTW-he was a Command Sgt Maj

Response by PO2 Dale Hoyt made Nov 14 at 2019 2:24 AM

2019-11-14T02:24:13-05:00

In 1973, while stationed aboard the USS King (DLG-10) , I was walking to the ship wearing my motorcycle jacket when an E-2 coming towards me suddenly saluted. It surprised me and at first I couldn't figure why. As I thought about it I came to the conclusion that he had seen the stars on the shoulders of my jacket and thought I was an Admiral. I've had many a laugh relating that story to family and friends over the last 46 years.

Response by SGT Harvey Makishima made Nov 14 at 2019 2:30 AM

2019-11-14T02:30:20-05:00

I was brand new to the Army and in Basic Training for just a couple of days. I was exiting a snack bar with a creamsicle. Just as I was opening the door with the creamsicle stick in my right hand between my forefinger and thumb I had to salute a colonel since we were outside. He was just entering and I was exiting but he must have had a sense of humor because he saluted with a smile and said, "Carry on soldier". Whew, I thought I was going to the brig!

Response by CPL Danielle Scott made Nov 14 at 2019 2:31 AM

2019-11-14T02:31:39-05:00

I was stationed at Camp LaGuardia, Korea. We had recently got a new platoon lieutenant that was very uppity, hated dirt, and thought she was better than her soldiers. We would go out drinking with our platoon sergeant on the weekends and he told us he couldn't stand her either! I was on the motor pool line one day under my boat lubing all those points (anyone who has had to do all lube points knows it takes time and focus). I saw two sets of feet stop in front of me and called my name. I rolled out from under my boat and saw it was my platoon sergeant and the lieutenant. As a soldier when we see an officer our first reaction is to salute so I did it while I was laying down, but I had lube on my right hand so I saluted her with my left one. My PS laughed under his breath and she just looked taken aback. After I looked at her face I just smiled and rolled back under my boat.

Response by PO3 Wayne Turner made Nov 14 at 2019 2:31 AM

2019-11-14T02:31:40-05:00

In 1968 I was a Torpedoman Seaman Apprentice attending a Class A School at the Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Training Base in San Diego, California. Our class finished in the afternoon and my classmates and I would issue from the building where our class was held and head toward our barracks in group of two or three, but basically in single file. The ASW base also trained Officers in Anti-Submarine tactics and sometimes one of those officers' classes would dismiss at the same time and those officers would all head toward the BOQ or Parking lot in the same manner; small groups but basically single file. What followed was a seemingly endless stream of enlisted men heading one way and a group of officers headed the other way and a whole lot of saluting. But woe betide any officer or enlisted man who might tarry in the classroom building and had to walk past a freshly dismissed class of officers or enlisted men headed the other way, The arm gets a little tired after ten or 20 salutes, you know.

Response by CDR Bernard Cohenour made Nov 14 at 2019 2:34 AM

2019-11-14T02:34:42-05:00

As a HM3, I was walking out of the Naval Hospital Newport Rhode Island with a butter bar Chaplain, when he whips up nice tight salute. I follow up his example and salute, then look around. All I see is a Navy Chief approaching. The Chief, in blues sporting his rank along with 6 hash marks all in gold, returns the salute. Then promptly, he stops us and begins to give the Padre some quick knowledge on Navy enlisted rank structure. Which ends with, that he should be the one saluting the Ensign, not vice versa, and gold means he had run a clean slate for good conduct. He says "not necessarily true, just that he never was caught." With that the Chief salutes the Ensign, which is smartly returned, and departs. The Ensign looking a little sheepish and me hiding a griin.

Response by Sgt Gregg Chmara made Nov 14 at 2019 2:43 AM

2019-11-14T02:43:06-05:00

The customs and salute requirements were different between the Air Force and the Army in 1963. That is when I went right from Lackland Air Force Base as an Airman 3C to Korea and 13 months TDY to the Army, north of the 38th Parallel, in an 8th Army Detachment situated in a 10th Cavalry camp (Camp Kaiser.)

I was assigned to AFKN as a disc jockey and being the only airman the Army NCOIC assigned me to midnight shift in the "Nighthawk" spot. The detachment was situated on a hill surrounded by a company with a recent (fresh out) graduate of West Point -- wearing shiny buttons and carrying a baton.

Coming off the air at 6 a.m., eating Army chow for breakfast and sleeping in the detachment barracks was routine for me. One fine day, everyone (all Army) else out of the barracks. I was sound asleep when I felt a baton prodding me awake and a red-faced lieutenant shouting about why was I not up and saluting an officer.

He was about to hit second verse of his rant when a quiet voice behind him asked, and just what are you doing not saluting a superior officer, lieutenant.

The red face turned, ready to tirade when he spotted the silver leaves on the blues of the Lt. Col. in charge of USAF network people who had driven up from Seoul to check on me after a write-up in the Air Force Times.

With a West Point stiffened back the Lt. rigidly saluted -- then received a lecture on Air Force salute customs and regulations, including NOT saluting from a moving vehicle if a passenger driving past a walking officer, of any service. The colonle continued with not disturbing .Eighth Army superior command personnel outside the Lt's own command area.

Just a short while later -- I was comfortably back in the rack, chuckling while the colonel went over to the officer's club for lunch, not inviting the lieutenant.

Response by SrA Robert MacPherson made Nov 14 at 2019 3:03 AM

2019-11-14T03:03:32-05:00

March AFB 1970, a first day enlisted newbie was processing in to a temporary trailer that had 3 or 4 wooden steps leading up to a door that opened out. The newbie was just committing to taking the first step when the door opened and out came a captain in full stride. In a futile attempt to transfer the white tube and several folders from his right arm to his left so he could salute the captain the newbie tripped and face planted right in the captains crouch grabbing both of the captains legs as all his paper work went flying! They both froze, discomposed as papers continued to rain down...it couldn't have been more perfect if it was planned and rehearsed!

Response by TSgt Paul Fields made Nov 14 at 2019 3:03 AM

2019-11-14T03:03:59-05:00

I was on this oiler out of Pearl and this one weekend, we had an inspection then a "Steel Beach Picnic". I was always a squared away sailor, with an inspection uniform (in plastic), dixie cup, gloves, shoes, ribbons - even socks! I was so proud. Well, after getting my chow of burgers and fries, my 'inspection neckerchief' blew in the wind into my food, getting ketchup all over it and promptly painted my 'inspection white shirt'. I was pissed! And wouldn't you know right then and there, the Captain walked up to me and saw my newly red-stained 'inspection uniform' and calmly told me, "Son, you look like s--t. Go and get changed."

Response by SSgt David Landry made Nov 14 at 2019 3:08 AM

2019-11-14T03:08:05-05:00

When I first graduated from Marine Corps boot camp in 1976 I was told when ever you seen a blue base decal on the windshield of a vehicle you must salute the vehicle. As a good Marine I did. For weeks everytime I seen this blue decal I saluted. Everytime I walked around on base on the road as cars are passing I would salute. One day it seemed like I should have stayed in my barracks. I was with a fellow Marine and we were walking through a full parking lot I was saluting to hundreds of blue stickers. My Marine buddy said Dave why are you saluting? I said did you not see the blue decals? Buddy said yes, why? I said why are you not saluting. He said, the cars are empty. I said I was told to salute to all blue decals. Buddy said, only with the drivers in them and only when your in uniform. I said to my buddy, I've been doing this since I left boot camp. He said don't let me stop you! From this time forward I slacked off. LoL

Response by Boketsu Banganganda Bonald made Nov 14 at 2019 3:09 AM

2019-11-14T03:09:09-05:00

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Response by SGT Ed Lada made Nov 14 at 2019 3:40 AM

2019-11-14T03:40:22-05:00

I was in basic training at FT Knox Kentucky in 1974. We were at a rifle range and we had a break. I had my M-16 slung on my right shoulder as I walking and I was smoking a cigarette. Our company XO, a 2nd lieutenant was walking toward me. I quickly took my left hand and grabbed the sling of my rifle to hold it on my shoulder and I gave a snappy salute with the cigarette still in my right hand. The XO returned my salute as we walked past each other. I think the XO and I realized that I had saluted with a cigarette in my hand at about the same time that I did. I heard him say "Private, did you just salute me with a cigarette in your hand?" My heart sank I replied "Yes sir!" He shook his head and and said "Get down and give me 20." I never made that mistake again.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2019 4:08 AM

2019-11-14T04:08:48-05:00

This was more embarrassing than funny, but here it goes. I'm an E-8 sitting through a commanders call. To my surprise, I get called up to receive an award; it really took me off guard because I was running the awards program and didn't know I was being nominated for anything. Anyway, I go up there to receive my award, do the take and shake and walked away. I realized I f'd up when I heard the gasp of 350 troops that just saw me not salute the commander. I quickly did an about face, apologized and rendered my salute.

Later in my office, after calling the commander to apologize once again, I needed to do something. The seemingly small "thing" was killing me. I know we are human, but I'm an enlisted leader and this kind of stuff should never happen in front of our troops. Honestly, the commander thought it was rather funny, but I couldn't let it go. I wrote myself a strongly worded Letter of Counseling to myself and sent it to my commander for his signature. Just seamed like the right thing to do. He replied "you owe me a beer...LOL". Every time I look at that dang Bulldog trophy, I chuckle. Never forget it.

Response by CPL Kenneth Lockridge made Nov 14 at 2019 4:33 AM

2019-11-14T04:33:43-05:00

My neck was injured in a service-related lifting accident and my right arm became paralyzed. The command hadn't cut me loose yet (still in medical board process at the time) and we had an inspection from the COL. He had no idea about my problem, I was in formation so I couldn't interrupt to explain, and could only salute with my left arm! :)

Response by PO2 Robin Colbert made Nov 14 at 2019 5:02 AM

2019-11-14T05:02:08-05:00

In boot camp, we were told if there was ever any confusion over who we should salute, look for a gold chin strap on their cover. That's how I ended up saluting a mailman.....

Response by Lt Col James Brown made Nov 14 at 2019 5:09 AM

2019-11-14T05:09:43-05:00

When I was in officer boot camp at Hamilton Field in California prior to coming on active duty, I was walking from the mess hall to my barracks, looking straight ahead as I walked. Suddenly I heard a yell coming from my right about 50 feet away. Startled, I looked and it was the camp commander, whom I had not seen and saluted. I quickly stopped and saluted and the commander said, "Brown, you have the worst tunnel vision I have ever seen!"

LTC James R. Brown USAFR (Ret)

Response by SSgt John Buono made Nov 14 at 2019 5:31 AM

2019-11-14T05:31:38-05:00

Went to tech school at the same base that basic training was at. Some of the trainees were convinced that a silver eagle necklace I wore in civvies meant I was a Col. I don’t know which was funnier, the fact that they believed I was a Col and saluted me, or the look on their face when I broke the news to them what I actually was.

Response by TSgt Terri Snedeker made Nov 14 at 2019 5:36 AM

2019-11-14T05:36:54-05:00

I was walking with my flight commander talking of what was going in my section. When an airman was walking up and caught me off guard. The airman saluted our flight commander and I returned the salute, just out of reflex. Our flight commander was unaware what I had done till I explained what had just happened. We both laughed afterwards of what had just transpired.

Response by SPC James Pacetti made Nov 14 at 2019 5:38 AM

2019-11-14T05:38:47-05:00

I watched a 2 star general Promote an E-3 to E-5 & Demote an E-5 to E-3.
I was across the parade field in Erlangan Germany as the 2 star approached Brigade Hq. The group of soldiers standing outside of Brigade Hq a few privates & the E-5 not noticing the 2 star approaching, the E-3 does right & calles the group to attention gives a salute & greeting of the day. The 2 star salutes & continues on his way. The E-3 starts getting his ass chewed by the E-5 saying it was his job and how he embarrassed him. The 2 star hears was going on returns to the group & demotes & promotes on the spot.
I kinda felt bad for the Sgt. But he was wrong.

Response by CPT Robert Chula Jr. made Nov 14 at 2019 5:44 AM

2019-11-14T05:44:02-05:00

I was at MSC officer basic when I saw a brand new doctor (MC), approached by two enlisted sergeants walking side by side, who snapped the doctor (O-3 capatain) a sharp salute. He returned the salute, as best he could, but used both the right and left hand simultaneously !

Response by MSG Randy Horton made Nov 14 at 2019 5:57 AM

2019-11-14T05:57:01-05:00

While in Basic Training, at Fort Knox, E18 4, Aug of 82, while in front of the barracks when the CSM, and Commander walked up, I yelled "At Ease" snapped to parade rest, while standing as such I saluted the commander telling both good morning, both of them seemed shocked, looked at each other. started laughing, and could not bring theirself to correct me....

Response by SSG David Rawson made Nov 14 at 2019 6:03 AM

2019-11-14T06:03:12-05:00

I was a sgt. in Vietnam Nam with 1st.Cav. In 8 month s in country, leaving PX with arms f.ull walked passed a newly WO1, who yelled me back (no salute) explained, I could see he was new in country and 1St Cav webonly saluted field grade because gear zone. He accep,Ted my explanation. Got back to Company, later called in to top who said CO was not happy, did I really say that, admitted it was me,waited for punishment, he broke out laughing, with the never do that again

Response by SP5 William Sells made Nov 14 at 2019 6:09 AM

2019-11-14T06:09:30-05:00

I accidently ran into a 4 Star General Jack Catton at WPAFB when I came thru swinging saloon steel doors at MAC Terminal. Accidently knocked him to ground and when I went to help another Major pick him up; He said are you Sells from Indiana? I said yes Sir! He said you are with me we are going to Hill AFB in Ogden Utah, our Plane is right there!

Response by MSgt Paul Crabb made Nov 14 at 2019 6:14 AM

2019-11-14T06:14:14-05:00

When I was stationed at RAF Bentwaters in England in the late 1980's I observed a airman leaving the commissary with 2 bags of groceries (one in each arm) walk past a 2LT to which the airman nodded his head. The 2LT stopped the airman, took the bag of groceries from the airman's right arm so that he could salute him, the salute was rendered by both parties, and then the 2LT handed the groceries back to the airman and they went on their way.

Response by SP5 William Sells made Nov 14 at 2019 6:18 AM

2019-11-14T06:18:41-05:00

Oh Yeah one other! Basic training Drill Instructor wanted to know how many inches in a meter to convert a measurement! No one knew; Except me! I raised my hand! He said you know? 39.37 inches Sgt. He said you ASA? I said Yes! He said sit down Mr Spock!

Response by SSG Archie Roberts made Nov 14 at 2019 6:30 AM

2019-11-14T06:30:43-05:00

I was stationed in Seoul Korea and one day as I was walking out of the back gate going into town I saw my XO who was a Major approaching. When I got close and about to pass him, I quickly saluted with my left hand. He quickly started to put up his left hand then switched and saluted with his right hand. As I passed him he looked puzzled as to what had happened.

Response by MSG Terance Anderson made Nov 14 at 2019 7:00 AM

2019-11-14T07:00:18-05:00

As I was a SGT, coming off shift at Field Station Augsburg (W. Germany), we often played pranks on one another, primarily due to the slow pace - often - of a strategic MI shift. Exiting the building with a buddy, we approached another SGT coming in to work. She saluted me, and I blankly returned it, then wondered why she did that. As my 'buddy' was laughing his butt off, I took my PC off and saw someone had folded a silver file clamp over my SGT stripes, so as to look like I was a 1LT! Thanks, 'buddy'!

Response by 1stSgt Bill Medbery made Nov 14 at 2019 7:01 AM

2019-11-14T07:01:43-05:00

I was a inflight refueler on tankers which is also a loadmaster. I was in my latter years in the service and had joined a group called ALCE. We deployed throughout the world to help in disasters and set up old airfields to take in supplies. With this job I would travel to different bases and teach how to load different types of aircraft. On one deployment where we were teaching marines and I found myself in a situation. I was wearing a flight suit and when not wearing my hat I kept it in my lower right pocket. I was exiting the military exchange and failed to put my hat on and ran into a lieutenant. He quickly asked where my hat was and I replied, in a cocky manner, in my lower right hand pocket. He blow up and started asking for my commanders name and I gladly gave it. I didn't think much about it until I was in class with these marines and one asked, who failed to salute the lieutenant? I answered that it was me. The next thing I heard was every marine thanking me and offering to buy me beer. Apparently the lieutenant was not very well liked.

Response by Sgt Richard Lane made Nov 14 at 2019 7:03 AM

2019-11-14T07:03:09-05:00

At Lackland Air Force Base Texas in 1976 I was being picked up by my family for a visitation and as they were sitting in my Uncle's vehicle I was seen saluting the concrete pillars that supported the modern dormitory and I had to explain to my family that everytime that I came to the blown up picture of an officer on a pillar I had to salute for training purposes.

Response by PO2 Amado C Salinas, II made Nov 14 at 2019 7:13 AM

2019-11-14T07:13:32-05:00

I was just back from From serving 6 years active in U. S. Navy, and a costumed to Saluting when The Stars & Stripes were displayed along with the National Anthem.
Now a fresh civilian , I went to go see a movie.... as the movie started... the national Anthem played as an Image of our FLAG; I snapped to attention and stood so while everyone sat in their seats ; the camera panned back to show a tv playing the Anthem,,,!

Response by LTC Dan Gregory made Nov 14 at 2019 7:19 AM

2019-11-14T07:19:33-05:00

When my buddy and I were pulling road guard (as PV2) at Fort Lewis, a car went by with the big post access sticker on the bumper with 2 stars on it. We both wondered what the sticker meant until the car reversed, the driver got out and asked us why we didn't salute as he passed. We told him we were confused about the blue tag, so he explained that the 2 stars showed that he was the Division Commander and we should salute as he passes. oops!

Response by PO1 Neal Bowman made Nov 14 at 2019 7:23 AM

2019-11-14T07:23:58-05:00

I was standing watch as POOW at Izmer Turkey. Since my ship was a Tender there were 4 other ships moored along side. We heard the 1MC sound a security drill and the OOD ordered us to go on alert, guns out etc. We stood there for a while and the security team did not show. Next thing we knew the Capt came and screaming at us as to why we were at security alert. Turns out the ship next to us had sounded the alert and was so loud we thought it was for us. We were relieved of our post but as punishment the three of us had to stand duty at the end of the ladder with one other person that normally would be there (4) for one watch. To have fun we would do a waving salute (like at the baseball games) to each person boarding the ship.

Response by SGT James Calhoun made Nov 14 at 2019 7:25 AM

2019-11-14T07:25:36-05:00

While I was shop foremen for the wheel-shop in an armor unit, we were conducting services on all the HUMVEE vehicles in the BTN. With the operator on hand, we knew the new young soldiers would be a good target and asked what happened to there spare tire. The panic on their faces was priceless!

Response by 1stLt David B Meyers made Nov 14 at 2019 7:32 AM

2019-11-14T07:32:07-05:00

Hazelnuts

Response by PFC James Mason made Nov 14 at 2019 7:33 AM

2019-11-14T07:33:16-05:00

When I was serving in the 82nd Airborne 2/505 we were training at Eglin Airforce base in the summer it was so hot that I and other soldiers decided to take a swim in a lake within our perimeter on my way back to my position after cooling off I encounter the company commander promptly saluting while saying "all the way sir" being completely naked. To this day I cannot think about that incident and not laugh.

Response by SPC Edwin Sanger made Nov 14 at 2019 7:41 AM

2019-11-14T07:41:53-05:00

1972 Ft. Dix..Being a new recruit my D.I. must of yanked on my right arm a hundred time in a attempt for me to get it right. OW! Later in permanent party and more jaded the troops in my company would ( at each other in fun) cock our right arm at 45 degree angle and tilt our heads to the right. Good times.

Response by Cpl Nick T made Nov 14 at 2019 7:42 AM

2019-11-14T07:42:34-05:00

We were deployed to Iwakuni and my buddy “rooster” broke his hand and got a cast that protruded his middle finger, it was a perfect FU salute position, we went out of our way to find officers to salute. It was very entertaining.

Response by SFC Bud Smith made Nov 14 at 2019 7:56 AM

2019-11-14T07:56:07-05:00

SFC (R) As a young PFC I was walking down a sidewalk with my thoughts of my Love and home as I looked up there was two Lieutenants walking straight at me and without thinking I saluted with with both hands , they both started laughing so hard they fell off the sidewalk .

Response by SMSgt Dino Eidson made Nov 14 at 2019 8:00 AM

2019-11-14T08:00:55-05:00

in 1985, at Chanute AFB IL during tech school. I finished lunch early, waiting in the formation area for our march back to the school house. I was sitting at a picnic table when a 1LT walked out of the building toward me, I prepared myself and rehearsed a greeting in my head. When he was close enough, I snapped a crispy salute and said "good afternoon Sir!" He kinda giggled and shook his head and returned the salute and walked off. I wondered why he was giggling, then I realized I was still sitting on the picnic table. Idiot...

Response by Sgt ColdWar MarineVet made Nov 14 at 2019 8:02 AM

2019-11-14T08:02:17-05:00

Being a Marine Corps "Boot" our Drill Instructors beat into us, "if it shines.....salute it!". Well after graduating Boot Camp you are sent to school for whatever your MOS was going to be. I was destined to be a Field Radio Operator. But since there were no slots at the time, I was given 10 days leave and ordered to the 9th Comm Bn. 1st Marine Division at Camp Pendleton. Nothing is worse than being a boot slick sleeve Pvt in a unit. I got every crap detail. Well one day I was assigned to a guard position at my Bn Armory which we shared with the 1st Medical Bn which was about 50% Navy. So here I am at the gate with a .45 and live ammo checking ID cards. Here comes several "Squids" and a guy wearing Khaki. Now in the bright sunshine I see shiny stuff on his collar. I whip out my smartest salute and say "Good Morning Sir!". He gives me a salute back and I can hear the Swabbies snickering and "what a dumb jarhead". The Sgt in the armory calls me over and says, "Private, we don't salute Navy Chief Petty Officers." Well I had never seen one before. And I remember our DI's and their "If it shines...salute it!" I guess if it was between giving some Squids a great party story over getting a butt chewing for failing to salute...well pride would lose out. Semper Fi.

Response by CPL Kenneth Kahn made Nov 14 at 2019 8:15 AM

2019-11-14T08:15:38-05:00

I was new to the military at my AIT posting when a car flying the Two-Star flags turned at the corner I was standing at. I didn't know that I was supposed to salute, so didn't. The car screeched to a halt, all the doors flew open and a full bird Colonel and 2-star general flew out of the back seats. The Colonel, with the General looking on, got in my face, locked me up, and started to dress me down in colorful fashion threatening me with a long prison sentence at hard labor for this breach of protocol. He had me salute him, then turn to the General and salute him. Then, both turned on their heels, got back in the car, and off they went leaving a shaking new recruit to consider his fate. Nothing came of it, and I'm sure they had a good laugh at my expense at the Officer's Club.

Response by SSgt Paul Millard made Nov 14 at 2019 8:16 AM

2019-11-14T08:16:09-05:00

I was was a young airman stationed at Hickam, but staying with my older sister and brother in-law ( Navy Captain) at Barbers Point and would drive in to base using his old VW rabbit with his rank on the access stickers. Everyday my buddy at the gate would salute the car as he should. After a while he realized it was just little old airman and he stopped saluting. One day my brother in-law rode in to base with my and I pulled up to the gate, no salute, so for fun I just stayed put , me friend came over to the car and leaned in to see what was up and realized a Navy Captain in the passenger seat, panic set in and he violently stood to salute, smashed his noggin on the car and went to ground. Of course we had to get out to help him back to to his feet and check his welfare. We had a good laugh on the spot, much to the humor of the people behind us in line

Response by PO2 Jacob Kozlowski made Nov 14 at 2019 8:19 AM

2019-11-14T08:19:14-05:00

I joined the Navy about 10 years later than most, but I as a Seabee this wasn't all that unusual. One Time (when I was a PO3) I was temporarily stationed at an Army insulation, it was late at night and I was returning to the barracks to get some sleep. I notice an Army Lt.Co. headed my way so I begin to pop my salute when suddenly he (as if in shock) beats me by popping the fastest salute I'd ever scene. What made it funny is he said "Sorry Sir!" as he saluted me! Of course I responded with "Carry On." and I continued towards the barracks.

Response by AA Thomas Prather made Nov 14 at 2019 8:19 AM

2019-11-14T08:19:55-05:00

Afew of us men was walking back on base and women officer was coming. They all ran and I stood still. She said I'm a officer so I saluted and took off. Nexi our company commander line all of us up and she pick me as one of guys that didn't salute. I didn't get in trouble. This was in 1970. We were not train to recognize women officer's.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2019 8:20 AM

2019-11-14T08:20:03-05:00

I was a E1 PVT at Fort Lewis Washington. i watched as an Officer 15-20 paces away was approaching the direction of me and another PVT. The other PVT decided to bend down and pretend like he was police calling and picking up trash rather than render a salute....Officer turned out to be the Brigade Commander and gave that PVT a coin, he thought that soldier was legitimately picking up trash.

Response by SrA Kakisha Worlds/Williams made Nov 14 at 2019 8:20 AM

2019-11-14T08:20:38-05:00

I was in Tech School at San Antonio and walking up to Commissary I saw an officer and saluted. He saluted me back and then said you don’t have to do that out of uniform

Response by LCpl Lawrence Dos Santos made Nov 14 at 2019 8:20 AM

2019-11-14T08:20:44-05:00

We never saluted officers in Vietnam. However, when our LT told us we were going to Phu Bai for 2 weeks he said the following: we are suppose to salute officers there but you better not salute me or else. The first time I saw the LT: I said good morning Sir and I saluted him. He chased me all over the perimeter and cursing and telling me what he was going to do me.

Response by PO2 Max Huber made Nov 14 at 2019 8:22 AM

2019-11-14T08:22:37-05:00

While attending my ships reunion, many of us wore baseball caps with the ships name on it. These hat also had scrambled eggs on the brim. This reunion was held at the Jacksonville Naval Air Base and we were allowed on base for lunch and shopping at the NEX. As we were walking around base we received many salutes from sailors on the base. We never said anything, just returned the salutes and kept walking.

Response by LT Kevin Hillard made Nov 14 at 2019 8:24 AM

2019-11-14T08:24:52-05:00

At an inspection, I once saluted so "crisp" that I knocked my glasses off & broke them.

Response by SSgt Ronald Fredey made Nov 14 at 2019 8:27 AM

2019-11-14T08:27:32-05:00

Mine was at the Flight Line at Cam Ranh Bay in Vietnam. A newly minted 2nd Lieutenant just de-planed and wanted to know why I (an airman) failed to salute him. I told him that we were told not to salute officers because that's how the snipers knew who the officers were. The look on his face was priceless as he literally scurried off the flight line.

Response by SP5 James (Jim) Donivan made Nov 14 at 2019 8:27 AM

2019-11-14T08:27:36-05:00

I had a really good job at Division and was assigned to a medical battalion for..."morning report purposes". I was in the famous 3rd Armored Division and the Battalion was stationed on Gibbs Kaserne in Frankfurt, I was leaving the Kaserne on foot, for some reason, and walking behind a 3 Star, Commander of 5th Core, 7th Army. The exit gate guard realizing what he had done, probably reminded by the other guard, and he stepped from the guard shack and yelled "General Sir" . The general stopped and turned to receive his very snappy salute and returned it, he smiled and said, "No problem son, just be glad I'm not a Second Lieutenant".
I passed the guard and slapped him on the shoulder and said..."not your finest hour, but, we are lucky the 5th Core Commander is a real soldier".

Response by MSgt Kimberly Pyle made Nov 14 at 2019 8:34 AM

2019-11-14T08:34:04-05:00

As a pipeline E1 student at Keesler AFB, MS in 1988, I was so paranoid about not saluting that I overdid it. I saluted a bus driver in a dark blue uniform with silver trim. He laughed at me and saluted back.

Response by MSgt Kimberly Pyle made Nov 14 at 2019 8:39 AM

2019-11-14T08:39:54-05:00

As an E1 at Keesler AFB, MS, I saluted a bus driver in a dark blue suit with epaulets. He laughed and saluted me back. I'm sure he got that all the time. As an E7, I was tasked with escorting VIPs at a Change of Command ceremony. I brought along my 15 year old AF JROTC son, in uniform, so he could observe the pomp and ceremony. At one point, while walking to the parade grounds, an old Air Force Chief was approaching us. As he saw my boy, he snapped a sharp salute and said "Good morning, sir". My shocked son saluted back. As we walked away, I heard the Chief mutter to his buddy "Man, those officers get younger looking every day!".

Response by SGT Ed Lapierre made Nov 14 at 2019 8:47 AM

2019-11-14T08:47:22-05:00

I was walking to the PX through the parking lot and noticed a captain approaching on the other side of the road. I said "Good afternoon sir" and rendered a picture perfect military salute. She returned my salute without saying a word. At first I thought she must be having a bad day.

Response by PO1 Tod Jackson made Nov 14 at 2019 8:49 AM

2019-11-14T08:49:52-05:00

Back in 1999, just one year after retiring. I was leaving the Navy Exchange at NAWCAD Patuxent River and saw a US Navy Captain. I was about to salute and did the run my hand throw my hair. Wait I don't have any hair so I just passed my hand over my head and said morning sir.

Response by PV2 John Fedunok made Nov 14 at 2019 8:57 AM

2019-11-14T08:57:30-05:00

I was a Captains driver standing in front of my jeep after doping off my Captain at a meeting. My jeep was cleaned with rubbing compound and waxed with a good wax. A Colonel walked by my jeep and stopped. I was at attention and saluted him. He looked at my jeep and asked me if I painted it high gloss paint. I said no and his answer was "if so, you will have to pay for the repaint job". He asked about the shine and I showed him the wax I had in the glove box. He asked me "How would you get the jeep combat ready?" I was stumped! I thought for a minute and replied "As fast as I can Pee Sir! He bust out laughing as he walked to the office!!!

Response by SFC Stephen Prince made Nov 14 at 2019 9:02 AM

2019-11-14T09:02:21-05:00

I was double timing across post at Ft Sill, OK on my way to class and saw a Major walking towards me. I went to quick time and saluted him and he returned the salute with a very puzzled look. Three steps closer and I realized that the subdued MAJ rank on his hat was an oddly cut camouflage pattern on a trainees hat!

Response by SP5 James (Jim) Donivan made Nov 14 at 2019 9:04 AM

2019-11-14T09:04:10-05:00

I thought of another one. I had a European discharge on a Sat. Morning. I was walking to the snack bar for a good by shindig and passed a second Luie without saluting and he stopped and shouted soldier! I stopped, turned and asked, are you addressing me?" He said, "I am, do you not salute a superior officer?"
I thought, for a moment and responded:"well let's see, superior, you say, I assume you are aware such an assumption is open to interpretation, but if I correctly remember our democratic system, it is the Civilian Population that out ranks the Military in such occasions. so is it you ought to be saluting me" He looked at me with a smile and said, "Donivan, did you just get discharged?" I said happily, I did."
He smiled and offered his hand". I took it and said, "thank you lieutenant"> " I fully intend to enjoy myself". I then repaired to the snack bar for my going away celebration. We had a Major with a German Shepard which responded only to German, we all thought it was way too cool !He was at the snack bar with canine companion. We all admired then both.

Response by SP5 Dick Ellis made Nov 14 at 2019 9:04 AM

2019-11-14T09:04:41-05:00

I had been in the US Army for a grand total of 6-months when shipped to Vietnam. All of my time was spent at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina and I had seen plenty of stars but no officers from another service other than Army. In the "Nam" we were exposed to officers of every service and nation! Each morning going into work I would pass a Navy Chief with anchors on his collar and issue him a snappy "Army" salute and a happy, "Good Morning Sir!" One morning he stopped me and said..."Trooper, do you know that I am a Navy Chief?" "Yes sir, was my answer...." "A Navy Chief is a Navy Sergeant,"was his reply... "OK," I said, "But if you don't mind I will continue saluting you, cause you look like an officer to me!" Which I did for the next several months till he rotated home.

Response by Sgt Terrence Baute made Nov 14 at 2019 9:05 AM

2019-11-14T09:05:08-05:00

I enlisted in the Marines in 1968 until 1972. I went through boot camp and had a friend who I thought I would never see again. I was sent to Viet Nam "Chu Lai" Marine air base Mag 13. One day on duty I felt a stare and when I turned around I saw my old friend. We worked together in Nam for 11 1/2 months. One day I saw him and he was white as a ghost. He then explained that he climbed into a dumpster to secretly sleep. He was awakened when a garbage truck started to dump the dumpster. We had a good laugh but it could have been bad. Semper Fi!

Response by SgtMaj Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2019 9:08 AM

2019-11-14T09:08:55-05:00

In Coronado during AO training, our squad was on the way to chow but in front of us was a bunch of Naval Officers in dress whites with their backs to us. Each of us passed by saying "by your leave sir", as the last man they turned toward me and I immediately saluted. As 13 of us arrived at the chow hall, a Chief got us in a school circle and reminded us that Midshipman are not Officers in the Navy quite yet and began to laugh.

Response by Capt Darryl Leon made Nov 14 at 2019 9:09 AM

2019-11-14T09:09:22-05:00

I remember one day I was an Airman Basic in tech school walking along the sidewalk, and I saw an officer riding his bike on the road approaching me. No question in my mind of whether or not to salute. I snapped him a good one, and he plastered the half-eaten apple (it turned out he was holding) to his forehead. To his credit, although his front tire wiggled a bit, he regained control of his bike after the ordeal and neither of us was any the worse for wear.

Response by SPC Glenn Hargrove made Nov 14 at 2019 9:11 AM

2019-11-14T09:11:26-05:00

I was battalion HQ clerk-one day the XO, Battalion Commander, and Sergeant major invited me to walk over to the mess hall for lunch. As we were preparing to cross the road we were waiting for a jeep to pass. I quickly noticed it was the Brigade Commander's jeep. I said "Everyone salute!". They all did and as quickly noticed who it was. After the jeep they all in unison said "Thank you Hargrove!"

Response by Lt Col John Robinson made Nov 14 at 2019 9:14 AM

2019-11-14T09:14:39-05:00

At Tinker AFB in he early 80s there was a wing commander of the AWACS Wing that had two specific uniform violations he had zero tolerance for, white striped socks with flight boots and a "thousand hour crush" on flight caps. One day a young officer (callsign Sting) was crossing the road in front of the squadron when the Wing commander pulled up in front of him and stopped. Sting, thinking the Brigadier General was stopping to let him cross the road and waved him on in a sweeping motion. The Wing Commander signaled Sting to the car and proceeded to provide three specific recommendations; if you see a star on a AF Blue sedan license plate I expect to receive a salute; your name tag is badly soiled and needs to be replaced Lieutenant; and remove that !$%! crush from your flight cap immediately. Thanks to Sting the squadron all got new nametags, and he became the famous squadron poster child for the bad example of adhering to AF Regulation 35-10 Dress and Personal Appearance of Air Force Personnel.

Response by MSgt Tom Kozar made Nov 14 at 2019 9:16 AM

2019-11-14T09:16:20-05:00

Related to me by a Royal Air Force NCO--his buddy, a gate guard, failed to salute the British Army field grade officer coming through the gate. Having none of this, the Army officer asked, "Oh, so the RAF has no requirement to salute an Army officer?" The gate guard simply replied, "No, sir, we don't have any Army officers!"

Response by CPL Frank Harmon made Nov 14 at 2019 9:18 AM

2019-11-14T09:18:58-05:00

Had discharge papers in hand, failed to salute a Officer

Response by CPL Paul Bongiorno made Nov 14 at 2019 9:29 AM

2019-11-14T09:29:36-05:00

I was serving in Can Tho a military base in the Mekong Delta. I had to walk inside the base to deliver something. A full bird colonel an I crossed paths. I didn't notice his rank and I didn't salute him. He proceeded to give a piece of his mind basically that I disrespected his rank. I told him that the little black insignia on his lapel was hard to see. He kept on with his tirade. Then I said to him we are in Vietnam. What if a sniper had infiltrated our base camp and I did salute you and the sniper put a bullet right in your head. You would be dead and the rest of my life I would have to carry that horrible moment in my mind. I quickly saluted him a walked away. He did not say another word. Paul Bongiorno

Response by SP5 Gene Rees made Nov 14 at 2019 9:32 AM

2019-11-14T09:32:09-05:00

I had a 2nd LT in Vietnam who was, as was I, a college graduate. He LOVED to lord it over me that HE was an Officer and I was just a lowly Sp-4. He said to me one day "It REALLY bothers you to HAVE to salute me doesn't it?" I noticed a piece of dog crap on the ground near us and replied "It's a rank thing Sir - if that dog crap had a 2nd LT bar on it I'd salute it too." He never bothered me again.

Response by PO1 Gerald Millione made Nov 14 at 2019 9:35 AM

2019-11-14T09:35:02-05:00

fresh out of boot camp, just turning 18, never been away from home, i reported for duty 6pm dec 23 1962 at corpus christi naval air station. i handed over my orders, saluted the ood, and stood at parade rest. the ood reviewed my orders then told me how to walk to the barracks i was assigned on base and dismissed me. i continued to hold parade rest for about a minute when he looked up from his table and said, "sailor what are waiting for i said you were dismissed".
"sir, it's my birthday".
"and?", he asked
"don't i get a birthday cake or something?"
i think this LtJG is still laughing about the youngster who reported for duty on his birthday

Response by SPC Beatrice Daniels-Strozier made Nov 14 at 2019 9:36 AM

2019-11-14T09:36:54-05:00

I was at Fort Benning Ga. first duty station as a Unit Armor {my MOS 76Y} in a Infantry Basic Training
Unit, I was a Pvt.2.
I had this BIG ring of keys to the rifle racks and i had it in my right hand. I seen this Captain coming and I was thinking to myself, ok "I got to salute him"--- YEP, I still had the key in my right hand and I saluted him. All he could do was laugh, I laughed and said "I am "SO" sorry". All he said was carry on Private Daniels with a laugh.

Response by PFC Jim Rodman made Nov 14 at 2019 9:37 AM

2019-11-14T09:37:18-05:00

When I was in boot camp at Ft. Jackson S.C. I was setting on the curb with a buddy when a second Lt. came walking by and we both jumped up and saluted him he saluted us back and when on by but right behind him was a Drill Sgt. and low and behold he seen the whole thing and I had saluted with the wrong hand and the D.I came up to me and said nice salute private Rodman and I said thank you Drill Sgt. and he said not so fast you saluted with the wrong hand. I said whopse he said your right so now you owe me 1000 push-ups Get down and knock them out. I said I can’t do a 1000 push-ups he said well give me some now and every time you see me coming you just get down and start knocking them out until I pass don’t remember if he got his 1000 but I seen him a lot

Response by SPC Allen Widel made Nov 14 at 2019 9:39 AM

2019-11-14T09:39:46-05:00

While at Travis Air Force Base to be flown to Japan by MATS I met a soldier that said we should get
some lunch. While walking to lunch an Officer walked toward us and as we passed my buddy did not
salute, the officer said stop. My buddy was why he did not salute, his response was priceless.
My buddy said, " I don't salute bus drivers". I walked away very fast and never saw him again.
We were taught in 1959 to salute when in doubt.

Response by Sgt Jeff Howards made Nov 14 at 2019 9:43 AM

2019-11-14T09:43:11-05:00

Nov 73, assigned to MATSG-90 at NAS Memphis, Millington, TN for Avionics school. Fresh out of Marine Corps bootcamp and salty as hell. As we approached the PX we see a Navy Ensign diddy bopping along the other side of the street with his left hand in his pants pocket and carrying a large shopping bag in his right hand, so of course we cross the street so that we can approach him and salute. Not only did we salute, but we stopped, came to attention, and held our salute until he returned it. Now remember his current status. Each step here is now done slowly and deliberately. This is an Ensign we are talking about. He goes to salute but discovers he has a package in his right hand. He goes to move the package to his left hand so he can return our salute but discovers his left hand is in his pocket. He turns red, starts to panic, removes his left hand from his pocket, shifts the package so as to free up his right hand, then finally returns our salute which we have been holding this entire time. We issue a sharp Marine "Good Afternoon, Sir!", drop our salutes and move out sharply all the while trying our damnedest not to burst out laughing while he is still in hearing range.

Response by SrA Rick Peter made Nov 14 at 2019 9:43 AM

2019-11-14T09:43:19-05:00

USAF. St. Peter. Mind was when they changed the Master Sargent and up from the sleeve patch to the collar insignia. We saluted almost everyone. after a while we quit because we were looking to hard to see if it was an Officer or not. Did not salute a 2nd LT. and got balled out. Good thing I had thick skin because I was laughing the whole time. I think they changed back because of that.

Response by SSgt Al Walters made Nov 14 at 2019 9:44 AM

2019-11-14T09:44:25-05:00

I had just returned from 13 months Udorn AB, Thailand(1975-1976 PACAF)where hair rules were lax, and attire accepted as long as you did your duty well. Needless to say, I was an enlisted "hippie", won Base Airman of the year & and PACAF Airman of the quarter!!
My final base was TAC headquarters, Langley AFB in Virginia. I hadn't trimmed my hair or moustache for months. So, on the day that I had to 'check-in' to my final assignment at the base executive building, I approached the door to enter and report for duty(last assignment).
When, of all people to walk out at the same time was a proper(asshole) general...THE BASE COMMANDER!!! I saluted of course with respect....and heard a voice behind me. I hurriedly rushed into the building without turning around. Rushed downstairs to the transfer office to fill out the forms of my new assignment. As I was sitting at my desk with another black airman who had just returned from overseas with me; two white law enforcent cops entered the room and pulled my black buddy 'astonished' from his seat to haul his ass off to the barber.....he was trimmed, I wasn't.
The base commander failed to say what skin color "the airman with hair 'out to here'!" was!!
I cowered in my seat low brow as I finished filing my transfer paper work, because I knew they were actually searching for me!! I got away with 4 more days as a "hippie" in the Air Force before showing up to guardmount....I was a cop as well !!!

Response by Sgt Peter Mosher made Nov 14 at 2019 9:50 AM

2019-11-14T09:50:48-05:00

While I was in the Color Guard I told one of the Corporals in the group when it was time to salute to turn to the right. He turned to the left instead, and I said to him, “No, your other right!” He turned around and did what he was supposed to do!

Response by Sgt Jeff Howards made Nov 14 at 2019 9:51 AM

2019-11-14T09:51:27-05:00

1995. Fort Bliss TX, home of the Army Air Defense Schools which are shared with Marines. I am a former Marine Sgt and retired Army Officer so I have an officer's sticker on my truck. Driving through the Post when I pass two young Marines Privates. Naturally they see my sticker and both salute, both using their outboard hands. One right handed salute, one left handed salute. I whip around, drive up on the curb to cut them off, and in my best Marine Sergeant voice demand to know, "Has my Marine Corps changed so much since I got out that you now salute with your left hands?!" Since they are fresh out of Bootcamp I have them quivering in their boots (as an aside here, I was good friends with the Marine Detachment First Sergeant). The Private that saluted properly tries to cover for his buddy by explaining that "He is a southpaw, Sir". I rip into them for a few moments more about representing the entire Marine Corps while on an Army installation, threaten to tell the First Sergeant, and then let them go trying to maintain that stern Marine attitude the entire time. In their defense, when I was fresh out of Boot Camp and assigned to a Navy installation we often ignored Navy officers in cars just to annoy them.

Response by CPT Jim Crawford made Nov 14 at 2019 9:51 AM

2019-11-14T09:51:52-05:00

I was assigned to the Atlanta Army Depot (Renamed Ft Gillum a long time ago) in the early 70's as a helicopter test pilot.
The head of aircraft maintenance for the Alabama Nation Guard was a crusty old W4 who did not play by the rules.
He was walking with a some civilian employees on the ramp and passed a 2nd LT without saluting him. When the LT passed him, he yelled at the LT to come back and began chewing him out for not Saluting a "Field Grade Warrant Officer" (That was back when W4 was the highest Warrant Officer rank.) The LT saluted and apologized and returned to his unit across the street.
The LT found out that the W4 was messing with him and came back looking for him but he had already taken off for Alabama with the parts he needed that he got through the back door as usual. He was not one for doing paperwork.

Response by Sgt Ron Horton made Nov 14 at 2019 9:57 AM

2019-11-14T09:57:49-05:00

My wise guy friend and I were coming up on a Bird Colonel that we didn't particularly like. So, without even discussing it, we snapped a great salute, both of us with the left hand. He returned the salute but you could see him, as he passed, look at his own hands. And then, that same Colonel came out of the chow hall and proceeded to lose his lunch at a tree. Three of us surrounded him and saluted as he called for Ralph. We didn't wait for a return salute that time. :)

Response by SPC Phil Flack made Nov 14 at 2019 9:58 AM

2019-11-14T09:58:39-05:00

Similar left hand salute story. A couple weeks from graduating from Basic at Ft. Jackson (Dec 1973) I was called to the orderly room one evening after dinner. As I came around the corner of the Orderly Room, our XO came out the door. In full stride as my left hand was coming up, I brought it to my hat as I came to a stop. The XO, as he was turning away from me, came to a complete stop, stood straight up, did a nice about face. By then I had stopped and had my right hand in the proper salute position. He takes a couple of steps in my direction, I'm still at attention. Says, Private Flack, "what did you just do?" Sir, I caught myself, Sir!" Ok, nice job, carry on......

Response by SFC Douglas Morrow made Nov 14 at 2019 9:59 AM

2019-11-14T09:59:06-05:00

my funniest salute story

Standing in a Brigade formation next in line for the Commander and CSM to review my rank when a bird flew over and dropped his load on my Class A Uniform and I didn't know it.. It happened at Ft. Hood TX as I was getting ready to call the PLT to attention
1ST Armored Bde HHC

Response by MSG Gus Garcia made Nov 14 at 2019 10:06 AM

2019-11-14T10:06:15-05:00

At Aberdeen PG my battle body and I got out of the mess hall and there is this 2LT walking towards us, I got to salute him and my buddy didn't. Few steps after, we got call by the LT, which we thought it was for not saluting him, instead he hand me his silver coin for being the first enlisted to salute him, while a senior NCO that was nearby, chew my partner for not saluting an officer......

Response by CPT Wilson Muhlheim made Nov 14 at 2019 10:10 AM

2019-11-14T10:10:46-05:00

I was a direct commission. One day, a civilian. Next day a Cpt. Four day’s later I appeared at the Quartermaster School in my new uniform. Walking up the sidewalk, briefcase in right hand, I encountered a short guy in a nice uniform. I nodded and said “good morning.” He stopped me, looked at me and put his finger on his shoulder. Do you know what this is? Some kind of bird. “That’s Sir. Do you know what it means?” No, sir. “ it means I’m a Col. do you know what Cpts do when you they meet a Col?” No, sir. “They salute.” Yes, sir, briefcase in right hand. Obviously, one salutes with left hand. “Yes, sir.” Salute. Col shakes with look of disgust. “Forget it.”

Fifteen minutes later as class is called- “Any direct commissions in this group?” A few hands go up. “Apparently, one of you met the school Commandant this morning. It didn’t go well. Better come and talk to me.

Response by Sgt John Ornellas made Nov 14 at 2019 10:11 AM

2019-11-14T10:11:34-05:00

Curious about the results I decided to call out the wrong rank when I saluted an officer. So, I once saluted a captain and called him major, he continued on and said nothing. Then I called a lieutenant a captain and again nothing. I then called a captain a lieutenant and got my ass chewed. Who said there are no egos in the military?

Response by Cpl Thomas Wyllie made Nov 14 at 2019 10:12 AM

2019-11-14T10:12:42-05:00

Had broken a finger in my right hand and with a hard cast extending from finger to forearm i had been informed to salute with my left hand until the cast was removed. The next morning i smartly saluted the first officer i saw with my left hand and i could see he broke stride as he did a double take to what he was witnessing.

Response by PO3 Robert Freeman made Nov 14 at 2019 10:13 AM

2019-11-14T10:13:05-05:00

One day I was working at the Naval Missile Center Photo Lab, Pt Mugu, CA. I was working in the studio when a boot walked in and asked to borrow a broom. When he came back with it I told him to take the broom to the Chief and present it to her like a sword. "Hold it in frond of you with both hands and tell her, I present your broom." He asked why and I said it was her broom and it was a Navy tradition carried over from the British. Soon the Chief was yelling my name on the PA and she told me to get into her office. I ran to the darkroom and hid. After about 20 minutes she found me. I thought I was in huge trouble. She was riding the broom and laughing. Soon we were both laughing. Everyone was laughing with tears in there eyes. She said my joke was a good one, called me a smart ass and road the broom back to her office. What a good sport.

Response by SPC Lewis Ferris made Nov 14 at 2019 10:14 AM

2019-11-14T10:14:03-05:00

I was the company clerk at Group HQ company. My desk looked out of a window that faced the Lt. Col. office. One morning as the Lt. Col. came staggering out of his back door (unfortunately not an unusual event) our "papasan" janitor gave him a very crisp salute. The bleary eyed Officer looked back and gave him an equally crisp salute. Not sure if he knew who he was saluting.

Response by CN George McIntire made Nov 14 at 2019 10:14 AM

2019-11-14T10:14:55-05:00

I was a Sailor, E-3, 18 yrs old , and arrived at my 1st duty station,,,,CINCLANTFLT, Norfolk VA. This base has about 2000 officers and a few hundred enlisted. (Someone has to take the trash out). I worked in the OPCON Center, in the WAR ROOM and was the projectionist for the daily Military Intelligence Briefing. It was a great job that few people could even imagine. Being around all the "brass" everyday, always wearing the Dress Blue uniform and saluting every 5 seconds became a way of life. One day, at works end, it was a horrible thunderstorm with huge rain drops. Being Friday and anxious to get to my girlfriends house, I held my hat on my head , eyes squinted, and ran down the street towards the barracks in the wind and pouring rain. A vehicle passed, splashed water on the sidewalk and drenched me,,,,and then stopped. I kept going when a voice yelled "SAILOR! " I stopped, turned and there stood then CNO Admiral Cousins. He walked to me and stood practically nose to nose in my face,, then said "don't you know how to salute an officer" ( yes, we had to salute their cars too) . I yelled "yes sir", saluted, and enjoyed watching the limousine speeding up behind us, then splashing a wave of water, drenching the Admiral and knocking hit hat off. I could not hold back the laughter ,,, and after a few moments,,,he laughed too. We then saluted, turned and went on our way.

Response by SGT Leonard Frank made Nov 14 at 2019 10:17 AM

2019-11-14T10:17:22-05:00

I went in late, I joined in my late 20,s when I was in AIT I was in Ft Ben Harrison. Well I was a an E2 called them mosquito wings. Had no car so lots of walking, I would try to save time and cut through Officers County young recruited were too scared. Funny is I guess I walk with a purpose and looking older, I would many times get saluted first by LT's. I thought it was hilarious and I would snap one right back to them.

Response by Capt Paulette Buzbee made Nov 14 at 2019 10:18 AM

2019-11-14T10:18:23-05:00

In 1968, my parents visited me at my first duty location, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. As I approached the guard at the gate, I alerted my parents that he would salute me (a new 2nd Lieutenant who loved being saluted!). I was so eager to return a sharp salute that I ran my car upon the rather tall curb to the right - saluted sharply and then continued to drive on the curb for several feet. I then found a parking place and my parents and I laughed. I am quite certain that the young airman at the gate was laughing as well! I was so embarrassed.

Response by CPO Edward Marsh made Nov 14 at 2019 10:19 AM

2019-11-14T10:19:20-05:00

Funny that you say. I was assigned to a Royal Air Force Base overseas. This was an American base with US Air Force Personnel. Here I was a Third Class (PO3/E4) just out of "A" school. While walking around the base. Everyone was saluting me. I did not know the Air Force ranking structure, so as a courtesy I saluted back. People were saying, "Good Morning Sir" and Let me get that door for you sir? I was very confused. Then when I got back to my command. I told everyone what was happening to me. I later founded out that they were saluting because everyone thought I was a colonel and only saw the eagle on my collar. Then when I would walking around and got a salute. I would explain to the USAF personnel that I was an E4 then tell them about my insignia. The chevron indicated my paygrade and eagle for the Navy. So after a year on base I still got saluted. I got tired of explaining so I would say, don't salute "I am Navy enlisted E4.

Response by SGT Chimene Wenrick made Nov 14 at 2019 10:20 AM

2019-11-14T10:20:24-05:00

A couple of buddies and I were coming out of a restaurant and a 2LT was walking toward us. My buddies saluted, but I didn't see the 2LT, so I didn't salute right away. He stopped us and made me stand still and salute him for a whole five minutes and he never rendered my salute.

Response by SP5 Paul Ward made Nov 14 at 2019 10:27 AM

2019-11-14T10:27:53-05:00

I was a new E-5 SP5 walking down the street on base at Hunter Army Airfield in Georgia soon after my return home from my first tour in Vietnam in 1969. I was a crew chief on Huey's. I volunteered to go back to Vietnam and I was heading to headquarters to pick up my orders. It was a cool morning and I had my hands in my pocket. A new green 2nd lieutenant stopped me and I saluted him, but he preceded to chew my ass out for having my hands in my pockets. I remember him telling me "If you go strolling down the road in Vietnam with your hands in your pockets I would going to get my butt shot off" plus several other words of wisdom to belittle me. He was looking at me from straight on an didn't see my combat patch. After he finished I saluted him again and turned to my left to flash my combat patch in his face I could see him turn red face being embarrassed about telling my about what combat was about with no experience of his own and he immediately left the area. I found the whole ordeal quite humorist.

Response by SR Joe Wright made Nov 14 at 2019 10:32 AM

2019-11-14T10:32:11-05:00

When I was in Navy boot camp and it was lights out, we had to take turns standing watch and making the rounds in our barracks. Well, each time this one seaman made his round he would 'bug' his buddy and wake him up. Finally on the 3rd round or so his friend who was trying to sleep said, Damn it Billy, I'm tired of you waking me! There was a few moments of silence, then Billy retorted...."Well Bobby, I'm tired of waking you!" And it broke the whole barracks up.

Response by SPC James Olbrisch made Nov 14 at 2019 10:32 AM

2019-11-14T10:32:28-05:00

In late 2002 I was in 3d ACR. We went to JRTC with 10th mountain while there my Bradley gunner and I were "killed: and had to report to the personnel assembly area to await being reassigned to our unit, we were mistakenly delivered to the 10th mountain assembly area. We were in our Green CVCs with our green spell vests that covered our names and ranks because the armor CVC looks alot like a flight suit everyone mistook us "me a PV2 andcmy e5 gunner kept getting saluted and called sir...
It took us several hours to get things straitened out but for 2 or 3 hours we were officers

Response by PO3 Crawford Reed made Nov 14 at 2019 10:45 AM

2019-11-14T10:45:00-05:00

In 1973, I was stationed at Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, attending the Naval Photography school there. NAS Pensacola is also the home base for the Navy's Blue Angels.

Being an enlisted puke, you got used to saluting almost everything in officer togs. The Blue Angels stood out because of their unique blue flight suits. It became the custom of the young enlisted guys approaching a Blue Angel pilot to snap a sharp salute. When the officer responded and released his salute, we would release ours by banking our hand away from our hat brim and shooting it up and away in the manner of a jet breaking off during an aerial demonstration.

As Blue Angel pilots of the time were seasoned combat pilots, they also had a bit of a sense of humor, not normally installed on a regular Naval officer, so they they generally got the joke and laughed off the nonmilitary gesture.

Response by SrA Charles Tyrrell made Nov 14 at 2019 10:49 AM

2019-11-14T10:49:14-05:00

I was in basic training at Sampson AFB, NY July 1951. Came time to be issued our dog tags. We were standing outside and the SGT said that when he called our name to raise our hand and say, "Here sir." It went fine until he called a name and, nothing! He called the name several more times until the guy finally put his hand up and said, Here sir." The Sgt marched in front of the offending recruit and shouted, "Grab yo left hand on yo right ear. Now grab yo right hand on yo left ear. NOW PULL YO HEAD OUT YO ASS." Funny now but not then.

Response by LCDR Kevin Dean made Nov 14 at 2019 10:51 AM

2019-11-14T10:51:26-05:00

As a very recently minted E-3 Naval Reservist, I was mobilized for Desert Storm with the 2d Marine Aircraft Wing out of MCAS Cherry Point. However, my only transportation at the time was a car my parents owned - complete with my father's blue stickers and O-6 'crow' decal. I had to drive around with those stickers for almost three weeks before I could get to Pass & ID for new enlisted ones. Which means, for almost three weeks, every time I drove through those gates, I was treated to a sharp salute by the Marine on duty, quickly replaced by confusion as he realized my uniform didn't match the stickers, succeeded by a glare of the pursest loathing as he realized he had just saluted a car driving by a lowly E-3 squid. Priceless!

Response by CDR Dave Rieck made Nov 14 at 2019 10:52 AM

2019-11-14T10:52:01-05:00

My brother swore he would never have to salute me. He was enlisted Navy in the Submarine Service. I knew he was wearing his uniform to my sister’s high school graduation. I flew in from Japan to attend her graduation and was in my Summer White’s. When I appeared as a surprise he had no option but to salute me.

Response by SGT Kenneth Staude made Nov 14 at 2019 10:55 AM

2019-11-14T10:55:11-05:00

we entered a suspected VC village and confiscated weapons and 2 large containers (made of what I call pottery) of rice. Big 6 was coming (along with more brass) to pick up the rice. As the chopper sat down near the rice, ME being a young strong farm boy elected to pick it up by myself. Just as I got it high enough to set it in apparently it broke with rice all over on the ground. The brass looked at me and puff they were gone. My best friend (Greg) and a few others were rolling on the ground laughing hysterically. Then the old man told (ordered me) to burn it. Needless to say LT didn't talk to me for a couple of days.

Response by SrA Charles Tyrrell made Nov 14 at 2019 10:59 AM

2019-11-14T10:59:22-05:00

During a break in basic training at Sampson AFB, NY in July 1951 we were allowed a family visit break. I was in my class A's with my parents in a nearby city and proud to be in uniform. As we came around a corner I saw a decorated man in uniform. I snapped my best salute and then realized that he was a Sgt. I was so embarrassed.

Response by PVT Matthew Middleton made Nov 14 at 2019 11:06 AM

2019-11-14T11:06:43-05:00

The funniest salute story I have is when I was in basic training. It was near the end of our training and we were doing a Bevwac and I was to build a forward communication post or forward post and I was sent back from the Drill Sargent to get some lime for the radio. when I got back to the HQ A 3 star general was sitting on the Box I needed to get into. I walked up and saluted him and he looked at me and said "what do you need private?" I said "I need to get in that Box sir and get some line out" then and he looked at me says "well hell private next time just tell me to get my ass up." I said "yes sir" I got the line and carried on. when I got back to the forward post the drill sergeant said it was the wrong line that we need to go back, he'd show me the right line. So we walked back and when we got back to the HQ that general was still sitting there on the Box, so I walked up saluted hum and said "sir could you get your a** up sir" and the drill Sargent about hit the ground with a heart attack the 3 star stood up laughing and he said "don't you dare get angry with that private, Drill Sargent, he did exactly what I told him to, I told him to tell me to get my ass up as I wasn't doing anything." we got the line that we needed and as we were walking back the drill Sargent looks at me and says "don't you ever do that again"

Response by SP5 Fred Sage made Nov 14 at 2019 11:11 AM

2019-11-14T11:11:14-05:00

Trying to get a flight off on time with a can of oil running saluted commanding officer on the run called back and asked where I took my basic training explained hurry but told you didn't get there any sooner I saluted and carried on

Response by SPC Neal Wolfson made Nov 14 at 2019 11:19 AM

2019-11-14T11:19:15-05:00

I was at Fort Dix New Jersey for advance AIT training. I was wearing a helmet liner and the paint on the rivet in front wore off leaving it looking like a brass button. A recruit was coming towards me and snapped a salute thinking I was 2nd Lt. I promptly returned the salute.

Response by PO3 Bob Wilson made Nov 14 at 2019 11:28 AM

2019-11-14T11:28:45-05:00

While in boot camp, NTS San Diego, our company was allowed to march across campus without our training instructor.While marching in perfect formation, as we approached the main gates, our Company Commander called a full salute to an Officer with full gold attire on his hat and shoulders.
We were looking good, until that "officer" got into his Yellow Cab, smiled and drove off. Probably the most respect that Cabbie ever received.

Response by AN Richard Russell made Nov 14 at 2019 11:31 AM

2019-11-14T11:31:08-05:00

While waiting on the hangar deck in line for mail call. The Captian walked by and I could see the top of his hat and Capt eagle on his collar. Our captain was 5ft 5 and me at 6ft 5 I saluted him. The Captian replied I was a little late. Then I replied Aye, Aye sir but didn't see you till now! The Captian said point well-made sailor but keep a better lookout from now on least one of those jets get you. I replied Aye, Aye, sir. ABHAN Russell.

Response by LTC Thomas Griffin made Nov 14 at 2019 11:31 AM

2019-11-14T11:31:27-05:00

When I graduated from Army Signal AIT at Ft Gordan in 1976, at the advance rank of E1...I had my full dress greens on, with slick arms, but my dad had sent me my unit crests which I had on my shoulders. During the walk back down Signal Line to my dorm I must have got 50 salutes from the other privates that only saw something shiny on my shoulders...I would sharply salute back and say "at ease soldier I will be in the area all day"

Response by LTC Thomas Griffin made Nov 14 at 2019 11:35 AM

2019-11-14T11:35:00-05:00

Response by SP5 John Wheels made Nov 14 at 2019 11:38 AM

2019-11-14T11:38:57-05:00

As an 19 yr old Private in Germany. My wife came to see me, this being her as well as mine 1st time out of Louisiana much less the United States. We were in love, walking hand in hand, happy as newly weds should be when a General came around the corner, I quickly saluted not realizing I was holding my wifes hand with my right hand. Yes left handed salute! The General was very gracious and only shook his head, smiled and saluted me with his left hand. To this day she still walks on my left side just in case. I turn 70 this year.

Response by Sgt John Hatfield made Nov 14 at 2019 11:48 AM

2019-11-14T11:48:42-05:00

Stationed at busy Rhine Main AFB, it was one of those days where you just wanted to get back to the barracks and loosen the
boots with a RnR. (rest n recoup).
Just left work site digging in trenches and on my way to post office to pick up
my mail, a lieutenant on a bicycle spotted me. I gave him a salute and waited for a return salute making him swerve his bike with a wobble. With finesse, He regained his composure, did a quick second look back to me and smiled. I think he knew that I just gave him a left handed salute. Never saw him
again, but I think He might have been in a good spirits. Or lucky day!

Response by Capt Richard Winslow made Nov 14 at 2019 12:01 PM

2019-11-14T12:01:22-05:00

While an Airman with only 1 stripe, I often walked with a couple buddies down a troop walk to the base cafeteria for lunch. There were usually officers also walking in the mix. When an approaching officer was spotted I usually saluted and said something like, "Good Day, Sir!". The officer(s) usually responded with "Carry On". Well, one day the officer spoke and saluted first, and to my amazement, I returned the salute with a "Carry On", quite automatically, as that was the usual occurrence. I immediately started anticipating a call from behind me about this breach of protocol, but I never got called for it. Amazing!

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2019 12:01 PM

2019-11-14T12:01:22-05:00

It was 1969 and I was a Navy Corpsmen who are notorious for not wearing their cover especially around hospital property. I was outside emptying garbage and a commander came around the corner and I jumped into the dumpster so she wouldn't see me.

Response by PO2 Mike Shunn made Nov 14 at 2019 12:03 PM

2019-11-14T12:03:05-05:00

When we were on the beach, in a group of 5, or 6, when we saw an officer approaching, we stretch out in a line about 5 feet apart then salute the officer one by one as he/she passed.

Response by SrA Larry Orr made Nov 14 at 2019 12:03 PM

2019-11-14T12:03:14-05:00

One day at basic training a airmen and I was setting on the steps of the barracks when an Offices approached. I stood up called attention and saluted why my buddy just set there. After the Officer
returned my salute and told me to at ease, he ask the airmen why he didn't respect him by saluting
him? the airmen replied it was his day off. Monday he had to read the manual out loud in class cover to cover.

Response by PO2 Daniel Williams made Nov 14 at 2019 12:04 PM

2019-11-14T12:04:51-05:00

I remember I had been assigned TAD to 2nd DIV, 4th MAB, USMC. On my first trip to Camp Lejeune I was in fatigues with the rank emblem (ET2) on my collar. I noticed the several "new" Marines were saluting as I walked by and finally asked the SSGT what was going on. He laughed, tapped my rank insignia device and said, "They think you're some strange kind of Colonel they've never seen before."

Response by Capt Richard Winslow made Nov 14 at 2019 12:07 PM

2019-11-14T12:07:33-05:00

While an Airman with 1 stripe, I often walked with buddies along a troop walk going to the base cafeteria for lunch. The walkway was usually pretty heavily traveled at that time of day, with many officers in the mix. When I would spot an officer, I usually saluted first and said something like, "Good Day, Sir!". The usual response from the officer(s) would be something like, "Carry On!". Well, one day the situation was reversed. As we approached each other, the officer spoke and saluted first. I was amazed when I heard myself say "Carry On!" as I returned the salute. I immediately anticipated being called back for this breach of protocol, but nothing happened. Amazing!

Response by PO3 Bob Curran made Nov 14 at 2019 12:14 PM

2019-11-14T12:14:59-05:00

While serving in the Navy as a Corpsman, Third Class, stationed at the dispensary at Terminal Island, California I was surprised to see my Dad who happened to drop in for his annual physical. He was a Captain in the Navy and he was accompanied by his boss who happened to be a Rear Admiral. They were both in dress blues.
My division officer who happened to be a rather pompous W-3 immediately approached the three of us and began to dress me down for my failure to act “appropriately” in the presence of two senior officers (They both shook my hand and to my embarrassment, and gave me a hug.)
I immediately fell to attention and introduced the Admiral and my Dad by their proper names. My division officer became so frustrated with himself that he immediately saluted both officers, in complete frustration and in violation of all customs and rules since all of us were bareheaded. He immediately disappeared for quite a time. I must admit, I truly enjoyed the moment.

Response by Amn Phil Deere made Nov 14 at 2019 12:15 PM

2019-11-14T12:15:38-05:00

After a hospital at Chanute AFB, I was assigned to an orderly room in an officer squadron as a clerk typist.
One weekend I acquired a three-day pass of Friday-Sunday. I had a great time. but I had to report for duty Sunday night as CQ duty (Charge of quarters). It was my duty to assist officers arriving that night with procuring quarters.
The CQ was allowed to sleep on a cot in the orderly room, and hang the sign on the door, “KNOCK LOUDLY. CQ IS SLEEPING” and lock the door.
Well, I bedded down. The next thing I knew, was it was morning and the Commanding Officer was shaking me to wake me up with that sign in his hand. Some officer had come in that night and added to the sign, “ HELL, HE ISN’T SLEEPING. HE’S DEAD

Response by CPO Micki Caney made Nov 14 at 2019 12:25 PM

2019-11-14T12:25:43-05:00

In 1988 I was just out of boot camp and had just transferred to San Diego when I found out the drinking age on base was 18. Myself and a few friends were going to the club. We still had to wear uniforms because we had not earned our civilian clothes chit and had not even one ribbon. It was night and pretty dark and as we approached the club none of us saw or saluted a Marine Colonel as he approached from the opposite direction. He asked us did they not teach us to salute Marine officers in boot camp and all I could say was yes sir and salute crisply, but what I was thinking was "I did not even learn to recognize Marine Officers in boot camp". I was terrified, just tow days out of boot camp and I had already screwed up. He was actually really cool about it though. I have since found that Junior officers are much more worried about it than junior officers. I spent almost the next 18 years in a field unit and rarely saluted.

Response by PO2 Kevin Reynalds made Nov 14 at 2019 12:26 PM

2019-11-14T12:26:29-05:00

About a year ago following a Warrant Officer Graduation at Ft Rucker Al, I was saluted by about 6 brand new W-1s. I was standing just outside the doors, preparing for a photo. I had my pride vest on and a Desert Storm hat with multiple pins and my Crow pin (Po2). No uniform. I’m long retired. I had turned to face the main doors as the newbies came out. A gnat had decided to attack my right eye as the Graduates approached. I raised my hand to swat at the gnat. Mistaking the movement, all 6 new Officers Saluted me in unison. I grinned and returned the salute. Then as with the old tradition, all 6 handed me a Dollar honoring their first salute.

Response by SP5 Marvin Holloway made Nov 14 at 2019 12:32 PM

2019-11-14T12:32:40-05:00

I was pulling guard duty one night while in basic training at Ft. Polk. I had switched my weapon to my right shoulder to relieve pressure from a pinched nerve. Not two minutes later a 2nd Lt. walked up and I saluted him with my left hand. Oh boy, did I ever get dressed down and I made sure I NEVER MADE THAT MISTAKE AGAIN!

Response by PO2 Scott Smith made Nov 14 at 2019 12:34 PM

2019-11-14T12:34:23-05:00

As a young airman, I broke my glasses at work one day. I was walking across base to go get my prescription so I could get new glasses. Apparently, as I walking, the base commander (a one-star general) zoomed by me in his staff car. I didn't even know he'd driven by me until I got back to my office with my new glasses. My supervisor had a frightened and sick look on his face as he told me I was being summoned to the base commander's office. He asked me what the heck I had done. I told him I had no idea. So my supervisor and I go to the base commander's office where he proceeded to chew me out for about 10 minutes non-stop. Then he asked what I have to say for myself. I was too terrified to speak, but my supervisor told him I had broken my glasses and couldn't see the staff car insignia and then gave the general a copy of my prescription. The general muttered, "oh, well, ok then" and dismissed us. Wonder if he learned the lesson that you should ask questions first.

Response by Sgt Leonard Lamb made Nov 14 at 2019 12:38 PM

2019-11-14T12:38:13-05:00

When I was serving at the Air Force Academy I accidently cut my right hand thumb deep and needed to go to the medic. I wrapped paper towels around my hand to stem the blood and walked outside in the freezing cold. About half way there I encountered a CWO who stopped me and wanted to know why I had was walking with my hand in my pocket and had not saluted him. I explained to him the situation and he told me "I don't care if you cut your hand off. This is the Air Force Academy. Get your hand out of your pocket and salute me." I told him respectfully, Sir, no sir. Saluted him with my left hand, turned around and walked off. Never heard a word.

Response by SGT Brian Hanson made Nov 14 at 2019 12:41 PM

2019-11-14T12:41:09-05:00

My funniest salute story was when I went in front of the Board to take the exam for my sergeant stripes. When you first go in, you must report to the board and salute the president of the board, who was our battalion Sgt. Major. I saluted him with a very snappy salute and took my seat. When the exam / interview ended, I was to salute the president of the board again, but this time, I was so nervous and excited that when I brought up my hand, I did it so fast and snappy that I literally slapped myself in my temple! The three First Sergeants, one Sergeant First Class and the Sergeant Major all laughed; but to my credit, I did not lose my bearing! I waited until the president of the board returned my salute; did an about-face and left the boardroom! I did pass my board with a 199 out of 200, so maybe my snappy salute helped me get my stripes!

Response by MSgt John Timko made Nov 14 at 2019 12:47 PM

2019-11-14T12:47:55-05:00

While stationed at Shaw AFB in the 1950s we frequently had newly commissioned 2nd Lieutenants arriving. Several of us airmen would spread out far enough so that as the Lieutenant walked out of the BX we would salute the Lieutenant one by one. The new 2nd Lieutenants would try so hard to return each salute. Sometimes the Lieutenant would drop packages they were carrying in their right hand attempting to switch the package to their left hand so they could return our salutes. Often times they would salute with with ther left hand. We would then retire to the BX patio. drink beer and share lies about how clumsy the Lieutenants were.

Response by AA Max Witgen made Nov 14 at 2019 12:48 PM

2019-11-14T12:48:56-05:00

While in Navy Electric/electronics class San Diego, 1972. I casually saluted an officer with somewhat of a curve to my right hand. The officer quickly grabbed my hand, straightened it out, and said "there". I never maid that mistake again.

Response by CPO Richard Palmer made Nov 14 at 2019 12:52 PM

2019-11-14T12:52:12-05:00

In 1968 I was a third Class Hospital Corpsman stationed at the Naval Dispensary at the Navy Department in Washington,D.C. I was concentratating on a task and saw a person wearing khakis walking by and I said "Good morning Chief" At that moment it was like time stood still. everyone disappeared and it was dead silent. I looked up and saw Admiral Hyman Rickover standing in front of me! I popped to attention and saluted and said "pardon me Admiral" and he said "carry on corpsman" and then left. I thought my career was over. Actually, 10 years later, I was interviewed by Admiral Rickover when I attended submarine training as a Chief Hospital Corpsman. He told me he remembered me because that was the only time he was ever called a "chief" and now that I was a chief I would understand that I had actually complimented him since the backbone of the Navy is the Chief Petty Officer.

Response by SPC James Starke made Nov 14 at 2019 1:04 PM

2019-11-14T13:04:42-05:00

In September 1973 while I was processing out of the Army as a Spec4, Parachute Rigger with 82nd Quartermaster Co., 82nd Abn. Division, Ft Bragg, NC, my roomie and I were walking down the sidewalk, a brownie in my left hand and my medical papers in my right, a leg 2nd Lt. came up and we saluted, with my left hand, realizing immediately what I had done. The Lt. stopped us in our tracks read us the riot act, not for the left-handed brownie salute, but for our covers. Parachute riggers wore red baseball caps with rigger wings on them, and wanted our names to write us up for unauthorized covers. About that time an Airborne Captain walked up and inquired as to the problem. The Lt. shared about our unauthorized caps and as the captain dismissed us, we could hear him reading the unknowing Lt. the riot act for not knowing the regulations, and his scuffed footwear. He would have had me dead to rights on the brownie salute, but he was so incensed on our headgear, he didn't even notice the salute.

Response by AB Jerome Paich made Nov 14 at 2019 1:06 PM

2019-11-14T13:06:59-05:00

LIBYA NORTH AFRICA MISURATA
1952
RADAR SITE
THIS IS A STORY THAT TOOK PLACE IN A 20 MAN RADAR SITE. I WAS PART OF THIS GROUP SETTING UP THE SITE.
THIS INCLUDED MAKING LATRINE PITS, POST HOLES ETC.
THE USE OF A PORTABLE PNEUMATIC HAMMER BECAUSE THE TOPSOIL WAS ONLY ABOUT 3 INCHES DEEP AND THE REST WAS ROCK. A CIVILIAN WAS ON SITE THAT HANDLED OUR DYNAMITE. I/WE WOULD DRILL INTO THE ROCK AND THE DYNAMITE TECH. WOULD PLACE THE DYNAMITE CAP INTO THE END OF THE DYNAMITE AND INSERT IT INTO THE DRILLED HOLE. IF IT DID NOT BLOW THE AREA WAS SEALED OFF AND ANOTHER HOLE WAS STARTED.
WE ALL LIVED IN TENTS. THREE OFFICERS IN ONE TENT AND THE REST SHARED OTHER TENTS. I HAD A RUNNING FRIENDLY FEUD WITH MY FRIEND BOB LAMARSH AND TOLD HIM THAT I WOULD GET SOME DYNAMITE AND BLOW HIS BUTT UP.
I FOUND A BROOM AND SAWED THE HANDLE INTO THE LENGTHS OF THE DYNAMITE, MADE A HOLE ON EACH END TO PUT THE DYNAMITE CAP WIRES INTO. I PLACED THIS ON A PIECES OF PLYWOOD ALONG WITH MY OLD WIND UP ALARM CLOCK AND LARGE LANTERN BATTERY. I FOUND DYNAMITE CAP WIRES AND ATTACHED THEM TO THE CLOCK AND BATTERY. I THEN PLACED IT UNDER BOB’S BED THEN I WENT TO OUR BEER/REC TENT. AFTER A WHILE BOB LEFT AND IN A FEW MINUTES RETURNED HOLDING THE “BOMB”. OUR MEDIC TOOK ONE LOOK AND GASPED… IT’S A B..B…BOMB. BOB YELLED THAT IT WASN’T AND SAID THAT I MADE IT.
WELL, TWO AIRMEN TOOK THE “BOMB” OVER TO THE OFFICER’S TENT AND PUT IN UNDER A BED. THE OFFICERS WERE IN MISURATA. I WENT TO OUR MESS TENT THAT WAS FACING THEIR TENT. IT WAS DARK AND I SAT LOOKING THROUGH THE TOW TARGET SCREEN. (THE TOW TARGET SCREENS WHEN USED FOR AERIAL TARGET PRACTICE WAS THEN USED ON ALL THE TENTS.) ALL THE TENTS HAD A 55 GAL METAL BARREL FILLED WITH WATER AND A BUCKET NEXT TO IT IN CASE OF FIRE. IT WAS ABOUT 11:00 WHEN LT. MIRANDA AND LT. WALLENSCHAGER RETURNED IN THEIR JEEP. THEY WENT IN AND ONE YELLED AND THREW THE BED ASIDE, GRABBED A FIRE EXTINGUISHER SPRAYING IT ON THE “BOMB” WHILE THE OTHER OFFICER RAN OUT FILLED THE BUCKET WITH FOUL WATER, RAN BACK IN AND THREW IT ON THE “BOMB”. I LEFT AND WENT TO MY TENT.
THE OFFICERS NEVER SAID A WORD.

Response by Sgt Bud Campbell made Nov 14 at 2019 1:19 PM

2019-11-14T13:19:16-05:00

We were deployed to Pohang Korea in 1986 and we had a no salute zone in our camp simulating combat conditions.Sometimes when a group of us were approaching officers we would reach our hands up like we were adjusting our covers and most of the time while our hands were going down the officers would start to salute.

Response by Maj Steven Kleid made Nov 14 at 2019 1:19 PM

2019-11-14T13:19:37-05:00

I was stationed in Thailand in 1973, as our role in the Vietnam war was winding down. Our wing commander called a staff meeting one day to inform us that he was not happy with the lack, as he put it, of "military courtesy" on base. He specifically was unhappy that a number of enlisted personnel were not saluting officers when they passed by on the street. He told us to stop the "offenders" and strongly reprimand them. I was a captain, but ex-enlisted, and I was uncomfortable dressing down someone for what I considered a minor infraction, especially during wartime. So I went into town to a printer, had a couple of hundred wallet-size cards printed up, and when an enlisted person passed by without saluting I would stop him/her, smile, hand out one of the cards and walk on without a word.
The cards read: "You have just passed a commissioned officer in the United States Air Force without rendering an approved salute as required by Air Force Manual 35-10. Because of this gross discourtesy your right arm will wither and fall off at the elbow within 24 hours." Believe it or not, after that I had enlisted people deliberately running across to my side of the street to give me an elaborate salute with a huge grin. Just goes to show that sometimes -- even in the military -- a little humor can go a lot further than a chewing out.

Response by CPL Evan Intlekofer made Nov 14 at 2019 1:22 PM

2019-11-14T13:22:51-05:00

When I got out of AIT (2003) I was stationed to the 10th Mountain Air Cav in Northern New York. I apparently said or done something to get the attention of Maj. Gen. Hagenbeck. So, I was tasked to help with a BBQ and MG showed up with his driver, was greeted by none other than CSM Troxell. They exchanged words summoned me over, I listened to him speak praises of guys like me and so forth. I was so nervous, when he shook my hand all the sudden there was a coin in it, I panicked, saluted with my left hand and I knew it was more f*cked up than a football bat but stuck with it. He saluted me back, I walked away dying inside and I swear nobody spoke for the next 5 minutes!

Response by SN Bill Chace made Nov 14 at 2019 1:26 PM

2019-11-14T13:26:21-05:00

Deck crew on the Ciast Guard cutter u was stationed on realized the officers rarely return ear or even noticed a salute. We decided to see who could give the sloppiest salute, my rapid salute with only my middle finger ‘‘twas chosen as the winner

Response by Sgt Tamaalemalo Mauga made Nov 14 at 2019 1:26 PM

2019-11-14T13:26:24-05:00

I had a quadruple by pass at the Army Medical in Hawaii performed by then heart surgeon..Major Error...now retired ...thank you and forever thankful retired Colonel Error.

Response by CPL Gerald Staack made Nov 14 at 2019 1:32 PM

2019-11-14T13:32:04-05:00

Leaving a school building, and half way out the door, I suddenly saw an officer coming in through the same door. I slipped past him with a quick left handed salute...and kept going at a fast pace.

Response by 1LT Albert Bushrod made Nov 14 at 2019 1:37 PM

2019-11-14T13:37:55-05:00

Korea 2nd Inf Div. camp Casey 1979, DAY 1. Green sedan approaching, flashing red lights in the front grill. I step to the side of the road to get out of the way and let the vehicle pass. As it passes me it begins to slow down and stop. I turn around and a man with a pearl handle side arm exits the rear door, that when I notice the star on his cap, I snap to attention. General Leslie politely informs me to salute his vehicle. Being new in country he went easy on me, thank goodness.

Response by CW3 David Covey made Nov 14 at 2019 1:40 PM

2019-11-14T13:40:18-05:00

In 1984 I was an E6 (promotable) in the Guard, in order to sign up for active duty I was reduced to PV1. Figuring I was screwed over by my recruiter I went to the COSCOM library and spent hours researching regulations to figure out why.
As I was walking down the steps exiting the building I was watching my feet to keep from tripping, preoccupied by everything I had read. I passed 3 people, when I heard someone scream "SOLDIER". I stopped and turned around when a young female 2LT got in my face and asked if I thought I didn't have to salute an officer. Thinking "O shit" to myself I snapped off a salute and said "sorry sir". The 2 E7's with her just about died laughing, meanwhile I did a smart about face and marched off laughing to myself.

Response by A1C Rowdy Bedsaul made Nov 14 at 2019 1:42 PM

2019-11-14T13:42:09-05:00

When I was in basic me and 3 other airmen were marching to get supplies, an older marine was walking towards us and we could tell what his rank was because of the matt black on dark green rank on his collar. I figured better be safe than sorry so I called the guys to salute. Right after he comes running up to me and gets in my TI screaming, asking why we were saluting, do his stripes look like an oak cluster, am I blind, all that. As soon as he waits for me to speak (all of us still holding the salute) I say "Sir, I noticed you were a marine gunnery Sgt, and though it is not required I thought I would show you some respect, sir" he asked who my TI was, finally returned the salute and left. He did go and talk to our TI also.

Response by A1C Peter OBrien made Nov 14 at 2019 1:54 PM

2019-11-14T13:54:47-05:00

My favorite was when an officer walking in the opposite direction of me anticipated my salute by saluting first. I saluted back and said carry on. He just smiled good-naturedly.

Response by PO2 Diane Glass made Nov 14 at 2019 1:55 PM

2019-11-14T13:55:57-05:00

I was a bubblehead during boot camp work week and had been sent all the way across base on an errand. I was told to double time it so was moving quickly. I began to approach an officer from behind and needed to pass him. I popped a sharp salute and said loudly “by your rear Sir!” as I passed him. Next thing I heard was “AND HALT!!!” and got to spend the next thirty minutes reciting my general orders and marching back and forth saluting from in front and then behind. I never forgot “by your leave” again!

Response by Cpl William Brantley made Nov 14 at 2019 1:59 PM

2019-11-14T13:59:49-05:00

In summer 1962 I was an 18 year old E-2 PFC in Marine Corps stationed at Camp LeJeune. I was selected to go to Naval Academy as part of a static display. While walking thru the campus I encountered young midshipmen, (probably older than me). When they saw me coming they snapped to attention and saluted. I thought there must be a high ranking officer behind me to get that smart of a salute. When I looked around and there was no one insight I realized they must have been instructed to salute anyone in uniform. I very smartly returned their salutes and said carry on. I had a wonderful time walking through the campus and being saluted, because that was the only respect I got as an E-2.

Response by Sgt Ken Martin made Nov 14 at 2019 2:03 PM

2019-11-14T14:03:41-05:00

I was an Airman Second Class (E-3) working as a computer tech in the "underground" at SAC HQ in Omaha (Offutt AFB) NE. Dead of winter, I'm walking to work from the barracks and out of the corner of my eye spot a vehicle with a 2-Star license plate coming up behind me. I keep my eyes forward and the vehicle pulls up along side and rolls down the window. A Senior Master Sargent is driving and asks me if I want a lift. I get in the front seat and thank him for getting me out of the cold. We pull up at the main entrance to SAC HQ and the SAC Elite Guard pop to attention anticipating a 2 Star General to get out...and I get out and show my badge and enter the building. They were not happy but I had a great laugh (internally) as I'm sure the Senior Master Sargent did as well.

Response by PO1 Jaime Navarro made Nov 14 at 2019 2:16 PM

2019-11-14T14:16:17-05:00

I was a newly promoted 3rd Class Petty Officer and was confronted by a “Boot Ensign” driving his personal vehicle and he stopped in traffic expecting a salute, I gave him “the bird” with pride and moved on smartly about my business!

Response by Sgt Richard Toth made Nov 14 at 2019 2:17 PM

2019-11-14T14:17:44-05:00

Went to VA Hospital to register. Older sergeant at computer asking questions, then he cusses (this was about 3pm) and said he hit wrong key. Following day went to get ID and photo. Lady asked me at least three times how are you feeling? I asked " Why are you asking me so many times.? She said you passed away yesterday around 3pm. Took another two week to get records corrected.

Response by SP6 Seymour Samuels made Nov 14 at 2019 2:17 PM

2019-11-14T14:17:56-05:00

I'm not sure where I first heard this. In November of 1956, I was on guard duty in the motor pool for the first time. It was late and dark. A soldier was approaching me. I was somewhat scared but shouted " Who goes there? " The response I received was "I am General (Smith) Commander of this post." I was so stunned that I just stood there and said nothing. After a moment or two, the General said, "Aren't you going to tell me to do anything else?" I thought quickly and responded, "Oh! Yes! Parade Rest!"

Response by Sgt Chuck Trautman made Nov 14 at 2019 2:21 PM

2019-11-14T14:21:10-05:00

As a Marine in Okinawa, on a day of crew rest, I was mugged and suffered a concussion and scalp lacerations. My head was bandaged like a turban. I couldn't wear a cover because of the bandage. While walking to the mess hall I encountered a Major. I was unsure what to do so I kind of double clutched before giving my salute off the turban. The Major double clutched as he returned the salute. We smiled at each and continued on.

Response by CPT Natalie J Stewart-Smith made Nov 14 at 2019 2:26 PM

2019-11-14T14:26:23-05:00

First Mc&C class on the pavement. 1LT asked for a volunteer. Dad (WWII vet at the Bulge) warned me, “Never volunteer!” But my face said, “Please, please pick me!” As demonstrator everything went well. The platoon was learning the Strac WAC salute. It was great. 1LT, behind me, said, “You will turn around, you haven’t learned to about face yet. You will salute me and say, ‘Are there any further instructions, Ma’am?’ Then you will Post, return to the platoon by the most direct route. Do you understand?” Well I gave it me all! I whipped around, arms flailing, saluted and confidently said, “Are there any further instructions, Ma’am?” She replied in a tired voice, looking at my errant hand, “Yes, Cadet Stewart, in the future, do not use the Girl Scout salute!”

Response by SPC Kristopher Candelas-Bush made Nov 14 at 2019 2:33 PM

2019-11-14T14:33:41-05:00

While in training I watched a 1LT walking by saluting lower enlisted as they past with an open palm British salute. So naturally I saluted him and as I passed him I gave him a high-five. Getting smoked was worth it.

Response by PO3 Robert Carroll made Nov 14 at 2019 2:41 PM

2019-11-14T14:41:38-05:00

NAS Cecil Field (1967) A big MCPO covered with gold hashmarks walking on the sidewalk passes an Ensign that looked like he was just out of high school without saluting. The Ensign in his high voice yelled out "Hey Chief", don't you salute an officer when you pass him"? The Chief, not amused, turned to him and said, "sonny, go home and tell your mommy you saw a sailor today" He was written up and when he faced the Captain they both laughed their asses off.

Response by PO2 David Welsh made Nov 14 at 2019 2:44 PM

2019-11-14T14:44:59-05:00

When I was in Sonar "A" School in Key West Fla. in '65 two of our instructor kidding around told one of the new guys that they did not have to salute the Marine Officers because they where under the Navy and they should salute us. One day a Marine Colonel passed this Seamen who did not salute. The Colonel stopped him and asked why he did not salute? The Seaman asked why the cornen did not salute him and explained why. The two instructor where never seen again!

Response by PO3 Anthony Dees made Nov 14 at 2019 3:03 PM

2019-11-14T15:03:39-05:00

I was in Utility Squadron 3 at NAS North Island in 1964. I was looking out the window when the Commander came up and asked what was so interesting. I told him I was watching an Ension hide around the corner and step out in front of an enlisted person and scream for them to come to attention and start yelling at them for not saluting him and give them a very hard time. We watched and when the Ension went back around the corner the Commander said to watch and went out and down the sidewalk. The Ension stepped out and was surprised that it was the Commander and just said hi to the Commander, not saluting, the Commander yelled for him to come to attention and proceeded to yell at him just as he had been doing. When the Commander was done the Ension turned and went the other direction and I never saw him again.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2019 3:05 PM

2019-11-14T15:05:30-05:00

I was stationed at the Marine Barracks, NAS, Corpus Christi, TX and worked in the brig. I was in the Sergeant Major's office getting a reenlistment talk one very rainy day. After the Sergeant Major finished talking with me he told me to report back to work and send another Marine to his office. I was in a hurry and when I left the Admin area I grabbed my commanding officer's raincoat and cover (Lieutenant Colonel H. C., Jr.) by mistake and put them on. As I ran through the rain I passed several Marines and sailors and one 1st lieutenant and they all saluted me. I was confused and thought they were somehow pulling a joke on me until I got to the brig and my Sergeant of the Guard asked me what the "blank" I was doing. I was told to go back and return the raincoat and cover. As I ran back I came "face to face" with Lieutenant Colonel Schriber, my C.O., who was wearing my raincoat and cover. We stopped and looked at each other and he smiled and said he was in a hurry and was dreading to get into the rain too and grabbed my raincoat and cover and didn't realize it.....we swapped raincoat and cover, I saluted, and we departed. The next day I ran into Lieutenant Colonel Schrieber in the PX and he smiled and said 'must have felt good to be the boss for a few minutes, huh".

Response by PO3 Stephanie Michaud Vogel made Nov 14 at 2019 3:22 PM

2019-11-14T15:22:27-05:00

As I was swearing in for FMF, I was asked if I ever smoked marijuana. My reply was "I smoked but I didn't inhale"! Luckily the officer's swearing me in had a great sense of humor! Needless to say, I had the whole place roaring laughing!

Response by SPC Don Erlitz made Nov 14 at 2019 3:48 PM

2019-11-14T15:48:00-05:00

I was walking down the Main Street of Ft Lewis not paying attention when a Jeep went by. I thought it was cool as it had flags waving on it. Directly behind it was another one with MP’s who quickly pulled over and took me into custody. I was taken the the Fort commanders office. I was taken into his office who asked me why I didn’t salute when he went by.
After talking with him for about 20 minutes he told me I had his permission to call him at anytime. He then had the MP’s take me back to where I was picked up. About a year later I called his office while waiting for transport to Vietnam deployment. We chatted briefly and I was on my way.
When I arrived in country and was being checked in they had received direct orders where to place me from this General at Ft Lewis.

Response by HN William Oleen made Nov 14 at 2019 3:51 PM

2019-11-14T15:51:43-05:00

This actually happened! When I was at San Deigo "Mainside" finishing Boot Camp in 1956 we had an officer named Marvel. I know that name can be a problem. The "Basic Training" was on the other side of the canal from Mainside. The custom was to have a basic boot standing guard at the bridge. When the officer approached the bridge the "boot did a "Present Arms" and said "Halt, Who Is There". The officer replied "Captain Marvel". The Boot replied Sure you are motherf---er! Fly your ass over here and be recognized. Captain Marvel approached. When the "Boot" realized he was actually an officer he said, "I'm sorry sir, you ain't no mothertf---er"!

b

Response by SGT Ronald Rust made Nov 14 at 2019 4:08 PM

2019-11-14T16:08:14-05:00

'65 and new to Sheridan Kaserene in Augsburg, Germany. Crossing the street on my way to the radio room at Division HQ, a small, non-de script sedan pulled out of the drive. Snowy, cold, and green, I did not see the Bird on the flag at the front of the vehicle and did not salute. Vehicle slammed on the breaks and I got a chewing from Sargent Major Taylor of the Division. He with so many stripes, he entered the Army when mules were pulling artillery. He asked why I did not salute and I told him I did not see the bird. He asked if I saw it now to which I replied, "Yes, Sarge!" Got another chew. Whatcha gonna do now, he asks. Salute says I. Go Ahead! I did and it never happened again. Probably saluted a lot I did not have to!

Response by PO3 Muneesh Sharma made Nov 14 at 2019 4:16 PM

2019-11-14T16:16:25-05:00

On the Nimitz I passed by a an Ensign I had never seen before. I smiled, nodded my head and said “how ya doin, sir?” And kept on walking by. Then I hear, “SHIPMATE!” So I stopped and turned around. The Ensign says “where’s my salute??“ I started to reply “we don’t sa—“ and he screams “WHERES MY GODDAMN SALUTE SHIPMATE?!” This is when Lieutenant who witnessed everything walks up laughing and tells the ensign that there’s no saluting while on deployment. Also there’s no saluting indoors without our covers on. The Ensign was red from embarrassment and after the Lieutenant left, the Ensign demanded that I give him my name, department and division. He let me go after that. At the end of the day I was in my division office standing at attention and being written up for disrespecting officer. For that they send me “cranking” on the boat for 3 months.

Response by PV2 Jeff Devlin made Nov 14 at 2019 4:25 PM

2019-11-14T16:25:17-05:00

As a private walking in front of the PX at Schofield Barracks I looked up and saw a 1 star I snapped a salute fast as I could unfortunately I had a cigarette in my hand.
Did not go over well

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2019 5:09 PM

2019-11-14T17:09:47-05:00

I was a CPT and the CO of a basic training unit at Fort Benning. A trainee couldn't remember which had to salute with, so he saluted with both. I could neither go on without correcting him, nor could I hold a straight face.
This may have been the same trainee that identified a Lieutenant Colonel as a "Colonial Lieutenant".

Response by Cpl Ken Chambers made Nov 14 at 2019 5:22 PM

2019-11-14T17:22:00-05:00

When I was in Vietnam as a Lance Corporal I was roaming around Freedom Hill in Da Nang when I got myself in a salute fix.
I saw someone walking toward me with gray hair and assumed it may be an officer. When he got close I saw butter bars and figured I had better salute. But then I saw the little red squares on the bars of a WO. I panicked as to whether or not they are full-fledged officers, requiring a salute or not? I quickly threw up a salute as we passed each other. I got about three paces before he yelled out "Marine!". Oh crap, I realized I had given him a left handed salute!
I did an about-face. "Let's see that salute again Marine!” he said calmly. I saluted him correctly. "That's what I thought." he responded. Then he said "Carry on Marine." I was technically AWOL between getting discharged from the USS Repose hospital ship (from malaria) and returning to my company in the bush up near the DMZ. I didn't need to be answering any questions about 'where I was supposed to be'.
At that point, I di-di-mau'd right out of there! .

Response by Cpl Ken Chambers made Nov 14 at 2019 5:23 PM

2019-11-14T17:23:16-05:00

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2019 5:33 PM

2019-11-14T17:33:28-05:00

I was a 2LT, Army Reserve, for about a year. I had gone back to college to finish my degree. Walking back to my dormitory (facing east), some new friends were walking up to me (facing west, sundown) and as they greeted me, my friend Rob held up his right hand to shield his eyes from the sun. Instinctively, I returned his gesture with a salute.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2019 5:46 PM

2019-11-14T17:46:30-05:00

I was working with ARNG as a helicopter engine mechanic and I was checking for Turbine Engine air leaks while the engine was running and rotors blades turning on the ground. A supervisor with a bad attitude thought he knew it all, started doing what I was doing and looked inside the engine exhaust and got his hair on fire. I turned off fire by placing my hat on his head, he took hat off with a few sparks on hair and it reignited. Again I turned fire off told him to leave. Later I found out not only did he burned his hair on his head, but also his eye lashes, eye bra and 3/4 of his mustache

Response by SMSgt Charles Gardner made Nov 14 at 2019 5:51 PM

2019-11-14T17:51:34-05:00

When in basic training at Lackland AFB, TX in 1958 I was sent to the Base Chapel one Sunday to play
piano for the church service. It was pouring rain so I wore my raincoat. When the service was over I retrieved my raincoat and proceeded to walk back to my barracks. A MSgt approached me with a snappy salute. When I didn't respond he was confused. Then with side vision I saw a gold bar on each shoulder. I had mistakenly picked the wrong raincoat at the chapel.

Response by Sgt John Hollowell made Nov 14 at 2019 6:07 PM

2019-11-14T18:07:07-05:00

After my separation from active duty. In 1976 I had business on a small Army base near Washington DC. The only sticker on the front of my car was a blue & white Smithsonian Institution parking sticker in the center of the upper windshield. That earned me a nice salute as I was waved through the gate.

Response by CW3 Dennis Stricklin made Nov 14 at 2019 6:20 PM

2019-11-14T18:20:40-05:00

In 1970 I joined the Air Force. We had 50 guys to a flight. Basic Training was at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, TX. We had a very large black top with at least 8-10 Drill Sergeants with their 50 men in different bleachers giving instruction or lessons of the day. I was getting a physical so I was late to that formation. So when I arrived I just slipped into the stands. There was another airman who came after me and walked right up to the drill Sgt. and reported with a salute that looked like he was trying to keep the sun out of his eyes. Definitely not a normal salute. Of course he was between the drill Sgt and the rest of us. The drill Sergeant just turned around with his back to us and the airman. So the airman side stepped around to face the drill Sergeant to reported again! The drill Sergeant through his hands in the air and turned and faced us again to which the airman once again side stepped all the while with his hand in this very sad salute. Now the drill Sergeant screamed ‘WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FOR BOY?, INDIANS? Once more the drill Sergeant turned away from the class and once again the airman side stepped with his salute ... mind you his thumb on the side of his head and the rest of his hand above both eyes!!! So the drill Sergeant sent him to the rest of the other drill Sergeants to report to them and he walked to each one with his hand still on his head and reported to every other drill Sergeant on the pad. We were about to die laughing but were disciplined for it. You just needed to be there to see it. That was almost 50 years ago and something I will never forget.

Response by SSG James Green made Nov 14 at 2019 6:24 PM

2019-11-14T18:24:42-05:00

This was in basic training, the scene was in the Mess Hall. The Mess SGT had a rookie assigned to KP. He told the recruit to go into the store room and fill all the sugar bowls with Sugar. So the recruit went and found a box of white crystals. He thought it was sugar. It turned out to be water softener crystals. The whole company came down with the GIs

Response by PFC Andy Chiaku made Nov 14 at 2019 6:29 PM

2019-11-14T18:29:34-05:00

As our captain walked into our CP prior to formation, we saluted him. Poor guy must have had food poisoning as he didn’t return the salute, farted uncontrollably and booked it into the latrine. The 5 of us including the staff sgt on duty held our composure for as long as we could. We were in tears when artillery barrages started sounding off from the latrine.

Response by SP5 Mike Olson made Nov 14 at 2019 6:56 PM

2019-11-14T18:56:39-05:00

A buddy of mine was the battalion commander's driver and as gungho as you can get.When he was on leave I filled in driving the Lt. Col. I had forgotten to cover the placard when I drove the CSM. He got a big kick out of 2nd Lts that saluted our jeep. Their expressions took a turn when they saw all the stripes on the sleeve that was returning their salutes.

Response by MSgt Stephen Kirby made Nov 14 at 2019 6:56 PM

2019-11-14T18:56:55-05:00

While serving NORAD at Elmendorf AFB, AK, I was walking out from a early morning weather briefing and saw a man walking just ahead of me. I started casually talking with him an when I walk by the car he was getting into I notice the Canadian insignia with the General's flag. I stop look at him across the hood of the car and saluted smartly, trying to apologize for not saluting early. He laugh and said it's morning and wished me well.

Response by SP5 Mike Olson made Nov 14 at 2019 7:10 PM

2019-11-14T19:10:49-05:00

We had a 2nd Lt. that would call you out for not saluting if he made eye connect from across a 6 lane road. When a buddy and I were coming off the drop zone with our chutes we saw a trooper being drug over the sand. As we rushed to help we regognized the 2nd Lt. I grabbed one set of risers and my buddy grabbed the other. We kept his chute fully open for about 50 yards until we hit the trees. As we helped him up we saluted and he thanked us for coming to his aid. We maintained composer until we were safely out of his sight.

Response by SPC Dennis Bryant made Nov 14 at 2019 7:13 PM

2019-11-14T19:13:36-05:00

1970 Fort Polk La. Saturday afternoon almost at the end of our training we had a break and went to the PX.On the way back had a large coke in my right hand as we passed our Co.hq.just then our Captain walks out so we all stopped to salute him. I whipped a beautiful left hand salute on him.He returned our salute took a step looked back and all I could do is shrug my shoulders, he just got a grin on his face and told us to carry on.

Response by GySgt Jerry Hattox made Nov 14 at 2019 7:25 PM

2019-11-14T19:25:16-05:00

I have two. The first involves a 2ndlt. I was walking into my barracks and two Marines were talking on the sidewalk. I had some business to conduct with the sergeant and stopped to talk to him. He was standing at a semi attention which I failed to recognize. He kept making funny eyes toward the other Marine and finally he said "dont you salute officers anymore sergeant". I stopped and looked at the other Marine and lo and behold a 2ndlt. Promptly saluting him him I apologized and said "excuse me sir, I didnt see you standing there". He was dumbfounded and just returned my salute as I quickly made it into the barracks.

Number 2. While serving with the Navy as a Staff Sergeant I was walking on the pier with another Staff Sergeant in our dress blues on the Marine Corps birthday when we saw a navy commander approaching. At the proper distance my buddy gave the command and we both saluted, except I saluted with my left hand. The commander returned the salute and we passed. We had gotten about 10 paces when the commander ordered "Marines halt". We halted and did an about face and stood at attention. He pointed to me and said "Marine come here". I marched up to him and saluted him properly and said "reporting as ordered sir" and stood at attention. He just stared at me and looked me up and down for about 30 seconds, then said" never mind carry on". I saluted and did an about face and rejoined my buddy and we proceeded off the pier. When we reached the endo f the pier I looked back and the commander was still standing with a puzzled look on his face. He knew he had been had he jut didnt know how..

Response by SGT Ryan Fulton made Nov 14 at 2019 7:29 PM

2019-11-14T19:29:02-05:00

Mine was as a young Specialist in 2012 at FOB Joyce, Afghanistan. Positioned at the base of two mountains, it was a black out FOB prone to attacks from 82mm Recoilless Rifles. We arrived at 3am under cover of darkness, and upon being introduced to our living quarters, I decided to go take a shower since the sun typically rises before 5am at that time of year. I secured my gear in the common area, asked my buddy to keep eyes on, and walked through a freshly graveled area to she shower facilities, having only my hygiene kit, pistol, a pair of flip flops, and a full set of PTs. I put the pistol on top of the divider that separated the stalls so that I could clearly see it until I was done. After my shower was complete I went to get dressed but to my great surprise my towel, hygiene bag, and PTs were gone. I was left with only the aforementioned pistol, flip flops, and a wash towel. I reasoned that it would be at least an hour before anybody was awake, much less able to come to my assistance, so I decided to risk the walk back to my hooch under cover of darkness in all of my glory. I used the hand towel for modestly, hiding behind what cover and concealment I could find, and made it almost successfully all the way back without being seen. Almost. At about 25 feet from the entrance to the hooch, a door swung open and out stepped one Major William Slocum. As his eyes adjusted to the light, I continued my approach in the hopes that I could quickly pass him before being seen. He looked my direction, squinting but looking more generally than specifically at me. He scanned past me, and then once I was within about 15 feet our eyes locked. He let out an irritated sigh, and I was so committed to my blunder that I stopped in place. I assumed the position of attention with pistol in my left hand, and quickly dropping my towel I rendered a proud salute and offered him the greeting of the day. He met my gaze, returned the salute, and did a 180 back into his quarters- allowing me to pass without question. He was the CO of my team for 9 months, and we worked together frequently but never acknowledged that moment ever again. I still don't know who took my stuff and probably never will.

Response by CW2 Jim Pero made Nov 14 at 2019 8:13 PM

2019-11-14T20:13:58-05:00

1970, closest airfield to DMZ. New CO non aviator. All Warrant Officers would salute our CO with the left hand as we passed him. He would go about 10 steps, stop. turnaround with a look on his face of something wrong here but what was it?

Response by SP5 Jack Stevens made Nov 14 at 2019 8:25 PM

2019-11-14T20:25:02-05:00

Our medical group had just lined up for a morning briefing when two new Doctors walked by. They were half in and half out of uniform fatigues with low quarters etc. I think they had watched too many Mash episodes. When one turned to the line of us medics and stared to berate us for not saluting. At this time the CO walked out and commenced to dress the three down as only a former drill instructor turned officers could. He had them braced and stuttering. He them turned to all of us and said “what the hell are you smiling about”? And chewed on us for a bit, but there was a twinkle in his eye that we had never seen before or after.

Response by MSgt Mark Williams made Nov 14 at 2019 8:56 PM

2019-11-14T20:56:41-05:00

I just had my right hand operated on as an E-2. I had a cast but did not require a sling. The base commander drove by and I saluted. I knocked myself down, he stopped and helped me up. Of course, by the time I got back to the flight line, the commander had already called 1st shirt to see how I was doing, so it was already all over the squadron.

Response by SSgt Maria Davis made Nov 14 at 2019 9:07 PM

2019-11-14T21:07:48-05:00

I had just left sick call and I was sitting down, on the sidewalk of the hospital. I car with an officer inside passed by me. I saluted him while I was still sitting down! He backed up the car and said to me : “ Sargent, I have seen it all, but this is the first time somebody has saluted me while still sitting down.”
Was I embarrassed!!

Response by SGT Higinio Vazquez made Nov 14 at 2019 9:10 PM

2019-11-14T21:10:11-05:00

On March 27 1967 i was wounded near Dong Tam south Vietnam. I was flown to Dong Tam where i picked up health records to take with me to a hospital in Long Bihn. Unaware that i had my records on my left hand and a cigarette on my right i ran into a Major while limping to catch a Chopper. He asked , what is wrong with your right hand soldier? I said nothing! Then i realized that he wanted me to salute him, so i gave him a salute with a cigarette on my right hand. He shuck his head and walked away from me. You see, we didn't salute officers in combat. Not where we were.
Higinio Vazquez

Response by PVT Thomas SunHawk made Nov 14 at 2019 9:12 PM

2019-11-14T21:12:58-05:00

While in basic training at fort Jackson, South Carolina, I had a weekend pass that I used to go to Orlando, Florida, where I was planning to pick up my car and drive back to the base. Problems developed and I was unable to get my car and not having enough money to fly back to base I called the naval base in Orlando so I would not end up AWOL. While there, wearing my dress uniform I was repeatedly saluted by trainees who mistook me for an officer. I just returned their salutes and went on as I had been directed to do should my dress uniform be mistaken by the trainees as my being a Navy Officer.

Response by SSG Christopher Carpenter made Nov 14 at 2019 9:29 PM

2019-11-14T21:29:39-05:00

While on deployment to Bosnia during SFOR 7 on Eagle Base, Tusla Main. All the NCOs from our unit got together to welcome a new Butter Bar to officers rank. There was this one road between our living area to HQ and the main chow hall called "Salute Ally" (where most of the officers walked from main chow hall mainly). We knew this Lieutenant Butter Bar was leaving the HQ area and he was traveling down Salute Ally so all of us walked slowly the opposite direction in groups of two separated by 20 paces. The funniest part was that this road went on for a little over a quarter mile. By the time we all saw him later he told us it was hard to move his right arm. He turned out to be a greater average LT.

Response by SP5 Robert Channell made Nov 14 at 2019 9:32 PM

2019-11-14T21:32:44-05:00

I was at a staging area North of Saigon with four other guys changing an engine in an APC. We had the old engine out and was removing accessories to transfer to the new engine. I was trying to get the temperature sending unit out, but it was not cooperating. Someone that I supposed was one of the other guys came up behind me and said how's it going. I said I can't get the S___ of a B_____ out, looked over my shoulder and was face to face with General William Westmoreland. I jumped up, wheeled around saluted him and said can't get it out Sir. He laughed, saluted back and said carry on.

Response by SGT Ernest Cooper made Nov 14 at 2019 9:47 PM

2019-11-14T21:47:52-05:00

As I walked out of my barracks going to our dining facility, I proceeded to walk down the driveway between the barracks. As usual I passed another soldier not paying attention to his rank, I walk right passed him. It happened to be a Second LT. After I passed him I began to run to the dining hall. After getting to my destination and I turned around the 2LT had been chasing me. He was out of breath as he reprimanded me. I then properly rendered my salute with our salutation. He then returned the salute and went on his way.

Response by SPC John Eagan made Nov 14 at 2019 10:05 PM

2019-11-14T22:05:14-05:00

At Fort Hood after returning from Vietnam and was picking up new uniforms. Walked out of supply area with two big bags of uniforms and walked by a new 2nd Lt. I said good afternoon sir as we past and he said, "SOLDIER YOU DON'T SALUTE AN OFFICER?" I turned around set the two bags on the ground and saluted him. Then I said to him, "you haven't been to Vietnam have you sir?" he said not yet. Well good luck but you probably should not make anyone salute you because the enemy knows that the guy who returns a salute is higher rank and the bounty pay is much higher on the higher rank. He said what do you mean. I had to explain it to him and told him we did not salute officers where I was because we had lots of Vietnam civilians working for us. We just verbally greeted officers.

Response by MAJ Linda Koppes made Nov 14 at 2019 10:13 PM

2019-11-14T22:13:08-05:00

I was the MP Duty Officer and stopped by the main gate of the Post. At 0200 very few cars would come through, so I decided to give the MP a break, and take the next car that came by. As it turned out, the car did not have a Post sticker, so as I approached I asked for the driver's ID. He refused. All the windows were rolled up and the interior was quite smokey. The MP was now on the other side of the car as I tapped on the window and asked for ID again. The driver produced a State ID, licked it and stuck it to the window. That's when a passenger opened his window and the MP & I realized everyone onside had been smoking marijuana. Needless to say, entry was denied, but they were accepted into the county jail.

Response by MSgt Gary Cummings made Nov 14 at 2019 10:24 PM

2019-11-14T22:24:44-05:00

While in Basic Training at Lackland AFB, a fellow AB was called into see the Squadron Commander. When he returned to the Flight formation, he marched in between two officers and saluted both of them simultaneously by using both his right AND left hands. The two officers were so shocked that they did not initially say anything but did return his salutes. After a few moments they called him to report to them and our Chief Drill Instructor. They proceeded to dress down both the Airman and our TI in front of our flight. We could not respond to this hilarious situation as we were at attention. But afterwards, we laughed our buttocks off.

Response by Lt Col Dwayne Frye made Nov 15 at 2019 7:28 AM

2019-11-15T07:28:23-05:00

First day PCS'd to pentagon as a capt: timed my arrival very poorly, (just) as most were exiting the building in the afternoon... got to salute at least a hundred higher ranking officers as I walked up the building and returned salutes from each and every enlisted member coming down the stairs. Never made that mistake again...

Response by PFC Suzanna McNamee made Nov 15 at 2019 7:44 AM

2019-11-15T07:44:52-05:00

I was a very squared away PFC working in Gaven Hall at Ft.Bragg. it was a common accurance that I would get saluted. I always tried to avoid people in the parking lot or act like I did not notice they saluted me. It was almost painful

Response by SPC Paul Cantor made Nov 15 at 2019 8:09 AM

2019-11-15T08:09:12-05:00

In 1966, I was in a small village about 20 miles from Saigon. There was a festival about to start. I was stringing wire for lighting. I felt a tap on my shoulder . I turned around and saw a general who asked me how the preparations are going. My initial reaction was to salute. I forgot that I had a lightbulb in my hand. I saluted with and broke the lightbulb on my head. The general laughed.
Paul Cantor

Response by SSgt Mike Frazier made Nov 15 at 2019 8:45 AM

2019-11-15T08:45:13-05:00

Several Airmen were standing under the awning at the base exchange when a Captain was seen coming out of a side shop who quickly put his flight cap on. When he passed an Airman standing outside the awning who didn't come to attention or salute. The Captain promptly turned around and asked the Airman if he knew the proper way to greet an officer. The Airman said yes Sir. Why didn't you salute when I passed by you? The Airman said, "Well Sir, when you came out of the side shop evidently you put your flight cap on backwards and I wasn't sure if you were coming or going!" I could barely contain myself and had to walk into the BX to keep from getting my butt chewed. True story, Kessler AFB, 1977.

Response by SPC Jayson Brockmeyer made Nov 15 at 2019 11:10 AM

2019-11-15T11:10:11-05:00

BROCKMEYER
Just like most privates in basic training, I was a chewed up. An Officer walked past me, I made a salute in parade rest. Good times.

Response by CPO Amanda Myers made Nov 15 at 2019 12:17 PM

2019-11-15T12:17:46-05:00

At "A" School at NTC Orlando - lunchtime when the NUCIPAC school let out and all the new Navy Ensigns would salute me (SA in the USCG) because the CG emblem on my hat resembled the Navy Officers emblem. LOL

Response by SN Frank M made Nov 15 at 2019 1:47 PM

2019-11-15T13:47:14-05:00

In 1971 I went from Boot Camp in Great Lakes, to A-School in Orlando. Being young and immature, and seeing that the size of the base made it virtually impossible for anyone to recognize an individual seaman, my friends and I took turns and took chances at punishment by playing the game of "don't salute the Jr officers." One very quick JG took acception to our apparent lack of respect and was able to catch up to one of my fellows and grab his hat! Well, as we all remember, our gear was stenciled so the officer was able to identify my peer and dole out the appropriate punishment through a Captain's Mast. Although he was fined and stood extra fire watch, he admitted it was worth the fun.

Response by Maj Richard Thomson made Nov 15 at 2019 2:28 PM

2019-11-15T14:28:30-05:00

When I was a young 1Lt, I had a trip to the Pentagon. When I got there via the metro, I went out the exit to the outside. I did not know there was an access inside. So, there are not many Lt's working in the Pentagon, so I had to salute everyone going to work. Boy was my arm tired.

Response by CW4 Estel Jerome made Nov 15 at 2019 3:29 PM

2019-11-15T15:29:53-05:00

During a move I was needed to check in at Ft. Leonardwood while walking to the transportation office a trainee was sitting on a duffle bag on the side walk as I approached it was clear he had never seen a Warrant officer the closer I came the more he stood up, finally at ten places I told him Yes you do, at that I received the sharpest salute I guess it's all good training...

Response by Capt Wayne Starkey made Nov 15 at 2019 5:08 PM

2019-11-15T17:08:14-05:00

This is not a salute story, but rather an Attention story. I was an OT Captain of my class at OTS in the winter of 1969 at Lackland AFB, in Texas. Our class advisory was Captain LaBella. He was a great instructor and a good man. As OT Captain I was responsible for various activities for my class of 15 officers in training. We were all very vigilent of miliary protocols and discipline , and I was especially concerned since I was their "pretent" captain. One time during a routine class, Captain LaBella was leaning back in his chair to point to his notes on the blackboard behind him. He leaned too far and fell backwords to the floor. I, like all the other OTs, was shocked and a little scared. I immediately call the room to ATTENTION! Captain Labella got up, composed himself and smiled and said " see even a Captain can do stupid stuff". At ease.

Response by SPC David Wilkinson made Nov 15 at 2019 5:14 PM

2019-11-15T17:14:08-05:00

During basic training in March 1965, Fort Polk Louisiana, we were sitting in the barracks when my buddy, Ritchie, comes up and asked if he could borrow a pair of my fatigue pants.
His hadn't come back from the laundry and he wanted to go to the PX to get some smokes. I said sure, I'll join you.
He puts them on and they’re about six inches too short in length but otherwise fit ok.
We're rounding the corner to the PX when a jeep drives by and we saluted the brass when suddenly there's this screech of tires and out jumps a Major.
We're standing at attention holding the salute when he says to my buddy "What's the matter with you soldier". Ritchie - "Sir?"
Major - "You’re ota goddamn uniform by about a foot." Ritchie - "Sir, I.." Major - "I don't give a goddamn what your excuse is; you double, no make that triple time back to wherever the hell you came from and get that mess straightened out, now. Well, move it." We were smoke and still holding that salute.

Response by MSgt John Klupenger made Nov 15 at 2019 6:27 PM

2019-11-15T18:27:36-05:00

When I was an A1C, I was walking out of the "Class 6" in Korea getting ready to turn left. I had was pushing my bike, had my backpack on my arm, I had just put my cap on, almost dropped the bag under my other arm, looked up and there was a Lt. coming towards me. He was about 10 feet away. I quickly popped a salute. Not a very good one either. To my surprise, he saluted back and walked on by. At first, I wasn't sure why I was surprised. It was then that I fully realized I had not only saluted with my left hand (as my bike was in my right hand and my backpack was hanging off my right arm) but I had been partially bent over trying to wrangle the bike, backpack and brown paper bag. I froze for a second expecting backlash. I slowly turned my head toward the Lt. and he had just kept on walking. I don't know if he realized I saluted with the wrong hand or not. From then on out I made sure I was fully prepared prior to walking out of any building.

Response by A1C Paul Swindle made Nov 15 at 2019 8:06 PM

2019-11-15T20:06:19-05:00

In October 1964, Bobby Duncan and I were at the Air Field in Canto, S. Vietnam. Being members of the Air Force, we were talking to a couple of Army guys when their Major approached us. The Army guys and I snapped to and gave the Major a sharp salute while Bobby just gave him a highball Air Force salute. The Major commenced to give Bobby a dressing down for his lack of proper respect. When finished with Bobby, the Major noticed my Air Force chevrons and sarcastically said to me, “I thought you were a soldier!” I responded, “No sir, but some of us just know how to salute.” The personnel officer Major then began to dress me down. After he angrily left, Bobby and I had a good laugh while the two Army guys were in in a state of shock.

Response by SGT Edward Cornett made Nov 15 at 2019 11:17 PM

2019-11-15T23:17:21-05:00

Nov 1951 my buddy & i were at Fort Ord, CA. as drill Sgts. and met a couple Navy reservist aviators in a local pub who said they need several more flight hours that weekend to meet the requirements for flight pay, so we decided they would fly us to San Diego ( our home town ) and back . We took off from Monterrey and flew down the coast to San Diego, however the field at North Island Naval Air Station was fogged in so the pilots ( who had never been to San Diego) were confused as to what to do, so I said "fly low under the fog, which was about 100 ft above seal level , out to sea, then do a 180 turn back east and fly low for the Silver Strand beach south of Coronado, CA. where the Navy airfield was located. When we see the beach, fly north up the Strand , past the Hotel Del Coronado and look for the Airbase. We did and landed on the first clear asphalt area we saw, called the Tower on the radio and a "follow Me " jeep found us and lead us up the landing strip to where a Navy band was playing and a large group pf Admirals & dignitaries were waiting. Two Army Sgts got off the plane and saluted the assembled brass, much to their astonishment. A few returned the salute. It turned out they were expecting the Secretary of the Navy & staff and the plane were were using was the same type used for Navy Brass, so the "Follow Me" jeep thought we were the expected entourage from Wash. DC. Various Adjutants & Orderlies hastily escorted us to the nearest taxi stand. The fog lifted the next day and we reconnected with the two aviators and flew back to Monterey.

Response by PO3 Gary Lutz made Nov 16 at 2019 1:15 AM

2019-11-16T01:15:20-05:00

I was just a raw recruit, in 1967 from Great Lakes in Norfolk waiting on orders. I was walking on one of the streets, at the Naval base in uniform, when I see a car with Flags approaching, should I turn my back like I don't the car, but just out of boot camp, I turn to the car and render a salute. The car came to a sudden stop, I said to myself what kind of trouble is this going to be, the driver opened his door and got out and approached me and said, the Admiral would like to thank you for saluting his car it was the first time anyone did. Well, you can imagen what was running through my mind, how about a cigar, maybe a promotion, maybe a ride to where I was going, but no, A THANK YOU !!!!!!!!

Response by CPO Gabor Szovati made Nov 16 at 2019 3:14 AM

2019-11-16T03:14:33-05:00

I was on Cinderella liberty the week before leaving boot cam in Orlando FL. My parents had driven down and were staying at a local hotel. We went back to their room for awhile and as we were walking towards it, these three men in uniform were walking towards us. Having been told to salute everything that moves, I saluted them and they responded with a salute back. As we went our separate ways I heard one of them say. “Hey, that kid saluted us. Do you think he knows we are airline pilots?”

Response by PVT Barry Brown made Nov 16 at 2019 5:09 AM

2019-11-16T05:09:42-05:00

One Saturday a group of prvts were raking leaves, everytime an officer was walking past the Sargent would shout Tenhut! We all would drop our brakes and salute the officer. After the second time the officer stops faces us and says,, I'll be crossing the area often today so you no longer need to salute. Later as we all were sitting down taking a break the same officer came by. I shouted teachout! They all sprang to their feet saluting and the officer returned salute. I was laughing.

Response by Cpl Sammy Garbow made Nov 16 at 2019 1:00 PM

2019-11-16T13:00:55-05:00

I was stationed at NAS JAX, back in 1966, I was on Duty at the main gate during Rush hour in the afternoon, I was working the the gate to the out going traffic, there were two lanes of traffic. We had to salute every Officer that left the Base. The Officer vehicles had Officer Stickers on there cars. I was standing outside waving all the cars through, as this Navy Officer came through he slowed down for his Salute, I saluted him with my left hand as I waved traffic through in the right lane with my right
hand, he saluted me back and drove through. Hahaha I realized what I did after I did it. Nothing came of it. I thought he might report me to the Officer of the Guard.

Response by TSgt Don Dollinger made Nov 16 at 2019 2:39 PM

2019-11-16T14:39:54-05:00

Was TDY attending Hazardous Cargo Training School. One morning after running a little behind we got caught behind a marching formation and after parking half a block away we were 5 minutes late to class. We were pulled aside at first break and told that one more late and we would be expelled and sent back to our home bases without certification. Lo and behold, 2 days before graduation we pull out and there is a conflagration of 3 marching squads. I quickly parked about 2 blocks away and we got out of the car and took off on a dead run across the parking lots to get to school on time. We were running across the school parking lot and a 2nd Lt pops out between 2 parked cars just in front of us. As we passed we hear "SERGEANTS, DO YOU KNOW HOW TO SALUTE?". Thinking we ain't got time for this and saying the first thing that popped into my mind, I yelled back, "YES SIR, BUT RIGHT KNOW I HAVEN'T GOT TIME TO TEACH YOU" and we continued into class (on time by less than a minute). He was pissed and came and looked over every class to see if he could find the offending Sergeants but didn't get a good enough look to ID anyone. Was hard to keep a straight face when he came in an eyeballed our class.

Response by 1LT Dusty Davis made Nov 16 at 2019 3:18 PM

2019-11-16T15:18:37-05:00

My funniest salute story:
Mine happened upon my 1st report with orders in hand after completing OCS. I was the "Wet-Behind-the-Ears" 2nd Lt. straight out of Officer Candidate School. My orders were to report to Ft. Benning as a Basic Training Officer. (The real reason was to get me used to the "bars" before going to Vietnam.) You see, I had joined the Army to become an MP, this had been my sneaky way of avoiding the draft. I could be in the Army, serve my country but not have to be on the front lines. Well... our county needed "Small Unit leaders" in Vietnam because attrition was high through casualty stats. A battery of tests were given at the induction center and I was one of the ones who passed. So I took the opportunity to waiver my enlistment and serve as a combat officer. I am proud of that decision. Anyway, back to the humor... I was GREEN... my Army life consisted of Basic Training, A.I.T. and O.C.S. I didn't know much and had not been around the Army much. So when I reported in to the Base Main, I was directed down the hall with orders in hand to the Base General's Office. Now, you got to know I have heard of Command Sergeant Majors but I had never seen one! There, sitting at a great big ole desk was a guy with a Green Beret hair cut that looked like a Christmas Tree! By God, being from Texas, I was going to make a grand 1st impression if ever there was one! I stepped up to his desk, came to a snappy attention, saluted sharply and said "Lieutenant Davis reporting for duty, sir!" I held the salute until he stood up, shook his head and realized I was not going to drop my salute until he returned it. He said son, I know I am old enough to be your Dad, but please you do not call me Sir. In the Army's infinite wisdom from this day forward I will address you as "Sir". These stripes were well earned and I pray you gain the wisdom necessary for me follow your orders some day should that time ever occur. God help us all. Now please, may I have your orders, "Sir"! (And, oh by the way, we are inside and saluting is not required.) I learned my lesson that day and never saluted another Sergeant.

Response by MAJ Damon Bird made Nov 16 at 2019 4:22 PM

2019-11-16T16:22:35-05:00

I started my career enlisted at Fort Hood, made SGT and was encouraged to apply to OCS. I was selected, went to OCS and had to return to Fort Hood before officer basic course. So, the first time I stepped on base after being commissioned I got out of my car and walked into the PX. On my way in I passed a couple fellow 2LTs and out of habit I saluted. Well they gave me a perplexed look and hesitantly returned my salute. I just kept going and as always when entering a building, I removed my headgear. That's the moment I realized why they were so confused by my salute.

Response by SrA Jessica Goerling made Nov 16 at 2019 4:40 PM

2019-11-16T16:40:25-05:00

Aside from the usual "mistook an enlisted insignia for an officer insignia and now I'm very embarrassed", I've got three stories. The first happened while I was still at Tech School, soon after I'd arrived there. My flight had been marched to one of the dorms and instructed to wait outside by our MTL while she went inside to grab whatever it was that she needed. While we were waiting, an officer came outside. The flight leader quickly called us to attention, saluted, and called out to her, "Good afternoon, ma'am!" Picture perfect. Except it was just past ten in the morning. She gave him a look but returned the salute and only said, "Good morning," a little pointedly. There was a bit of stifled laughter after he put us at ease, but hey, nobody's perfect.

Then there was another time in tech school when I repeatedly got saluted by the same person. I was a slick sleeve at the time, so I can understand making that mistake once if you're looking for an absence of chevrons rather than the presence of a collar insignia, but twice in the same week? Really? To make it even weirder, both times I was marching to lunch with my class, two other airmen who were CLEARLY A1Cs.

The last one was while I was up at Naval Station Great Lakes for my sister's boot camp graduation. Also with me were our uncle (a civilian) and our dad (a former AF captain). Being that our dad was still permitted to wear his uniform for occasions like this and he'd recently gotten in shape, he decided to do so. Walking outside with my sister after the ceremony was over was the funniest thing in the world. Every time we passed another recruit going the opposite direction you could just SEE the panic in their eyes when they realized that there was an officer! Just roaming about! And they had to salute him RIGHT NOW AAUUUGGHHH!!!

Response by PO2 Paul Gerg made Nov 16 at 2019 8:34 PM

2019-11-16T20:34:59-05:00

We had an Admiral's inspection. Admiral came aboard with a CPO behind him with an aides sash. Our OOD saluted the Chief first. and I was thinking we are going to catch it until the CPO passed me and I understood, he was wearing a Medal of Honor.

Response by PO1 Bert Gebhard made Nov 16 at 2019 9:34 PM

2019-11-16T21:34:50-05:00

I used to get saluted all the time by people of another service, once by a Navy Master Chief and once by an Air Force pilot. I guess they thought the gold enlisted collar devices we of a Coast Guard Officer

Response by Cpl ChrisandAlene Losee made Nov 17 at 2019 4:00 AM

2019-11-17T04:00:13-05:00

On a Marine base it was always embarrassing to see a Navy enlisted with a shiny collar and after you salute them they respond with, "Im not an officer. "

Response by PO2 Joseph Bender made Nov 17 at 2019 11:15 AM

2019-11-17T11:15:37-05:00

Seaman recruit Hill and I were coming back from Liberty call during schooling.He was smashed. We enter the Quarter Deck. I salute the flag, salute OOD I sound off permission. Iam granted. Hill salutes the OOD then the flag and sounds off "Permission to cross the patio Daddio" OOD quickly gives him a last chance.He then pulls his wallet out, flips open like a Star Trek communicator and replies, "beam me up Scottie this sucks down here" OOD replies do it over get sent out of school. I pleaded to the OOD and to Hill he would do it right. He did. I saved his ass that night

Response by Maj Robert ROLLMAN Sr made Nov 17 at 2019 8:25 PM

2019-11-17T20:25:20-05:00

I was a retread Capt with about 12 years. Recognized an old buddy who was a TSgt. We greeted each other with big smiles and a hug. Then he noticed my rank, stepped back, saluted, lost his balance and fell into a snow bank. “Wow“ he said, “you sure know how to knock an old friend off their feet”

Response by Cpl Fredrick Webber made Nov 17 at 2019 8:51 PM

2019-11-17T20:51:30-05:00

I hate to be the bearer of bad tidings, but the last thing a Marine is ever going to be allowed to render, is a funny salute. I think any Marine who gave one, that would be their last salute. Sorry, I expect you won't be hearing of any from one of us.

Response by SP5 Tommy Cunningham made Nov 17 at 2019 9:08 PM

2019-11-17T21:08:08-05:00

My funniest salute was the time, I was walking by and around a MARS building, with a cigarette in my mouth I round the corner and here is the full colonel, I salute him with my finest salute ever. about the time I realized I had the cigarette in the corner of my mouth, the colonel called me back, to dress me down in the intricacies of saluting. As the Colonel turned to go I saw a small smile creep up in the corner of his mouth. On reflection that was also funny to me, of course much later...

Response by SPC Barry Hollifield made Nov 18 at 2019 9:36 AM

2019-11-18T09:36:32-05:00

The year was 1967 and I was assigned to the Tactical Fighter Wing as a radio operator in Bien Hoa, South Vietnam. I was standing in front of the local mail depository and was getting ready to check my mail when I heard someone say "good morning Specialist." I turned around to see a Full Bird Colonel facing me at full salute. Luckily, I immediately regained my composure, sharply snapped to attention, and saluted the Colonel back. The Colonel then stated that there had been an issue as of late of NCO's not saluting officers at Bien Hoa airbase and that he had been testing me. I think maybe the Colonel had initially thought that I had seen him and not recognized his rank but I had been absorbed in checking my mail. Luckily, the U.S. Army had conditioned me to salute when it was proper without fail. It was my saving grace. I have never forgotten this episode and never will.

Response by SP5 Gene Kirk made Nov 18 at 2019 10:56 AM

2019-11-18T10:56:06-05:00

In May, 1965 while in Basic training at Ft. Jackson, SC. We had finished the day and had to run all the way back to the company from the firing range (5 miles) in order to make retreat. Our guidon bearer was a funny little guy named Pinkney. As you know, the guidon had a pointed metal tip on it to jam in the ground. As the company commander called us to attention to salute the lowering of the flag, the guidon bearer thrusts the guidon into the air and then brings it down to jam into the ground beside him. Pinkney brought the guidon down and it went into his fatigue pants pocket and out through the side of his pant leg. In trying to get it back out, he stumbled and fell with it on top of him. The whole company cracked up, including stern faced DIs and company commander.

Response by TSgt Samuel Mayfield made Nov 18 at 2019 1:04 PM

2019-11-18T13:04:17-05:00

Not a salute story per se but I was in a snack bar located next to the flight-line at Shaw AFB and had a big dip of tobacco in my mouth. Didn't think anything about it because I didn't plan on being in there any longer than it took to purchase a soda. I had picked my soda out of the cooler and went to turn towards the cash register when a two star asks me if he can cut in front of me because he has to get to his bird asap. I swallowed what had become a mouthful of tobacco spit and replied, Yes Sir, no problem! He left, I paid for my soda and went outside and puked for the next 10 minutes!

Response by CWO4 Miles Weaver made Nov 18 at 2019 1:35 PM

2019-11-18T13:35:20-05:00

About to graduate from boot camp at PISC in '65, we were in 5th phase and were cleaning weapons when I took a really stupid chance to mail a letter to my girlfriend because of something I wanted her to bring to graduation. Sneaking out the back door, I was running around the barracks to the mailbox in front. As I rounded the corner, I met a 2nd Lt. and, thinking I was toast, skidded to a walk and saluted him with the Boy Scout 3 fingered salute. He returned my salute without comment and I made it safely back to the barracks without being caught.

Response by Sgt Ingrid Malik made Nov 18 at 2019 3:02 PM

2019-11-18T15:02:43-05:00

When I was in the Army Reserve, a group of us were hanging by a door waiting for our Platoon Sergeant. A Navy man approached to go inside the building. As he approached, we starting asking each other if he was an officer. Someone suggested we err on the side of caution and we all saluted. He grinned and said he wasn't an officer as he went inside.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2019 4:12 PM

2019-11-18T16:12:39-05:00

My platoon deliberately spaced ourselves out on base and waited for a Lt. to walk by. Once the target was acquired we executed by walking one by one. You could see his frustration grow as he repeatedly returned each one of our salutes for about 200 meters straight.

Response by Cpl Thomas Drumm made Nov 18 at 2019 4:20 PM

2019-11-18T16:20:48-05:00

A lot of Marines who made training missions to Vegas Puerto Rico in the 1960’s aboard the USS Boxer did this one for entertainment. Three or four of us enlisted would go to the hanger deck and put our M14 rifles on our right shoulder and when an officer would go by we would salute with our left hand ! We loved the puzzled looks we got ! Some officers gave second looks like what just happened !

Response by PO3 Mark Weaver made Nov 18 at 2019 7:37 PM

2019-11-18T19:37:12-05:00

Was at NTC Orlando in 1988, myself and another E4 were walking about 20 paces behind a Master Chief Petty Officer that had a CMH from Vietnam, he was well known on base. He walked behind a newly minted Ensign and did not salute. The Ensign stopped him and asked him "shouldn't you salute me, I am an officer". The SCPO reached into his pocket, took out a quarter, flipped it to the Ensign and told him "here's a quarter, go call your mama and tell her you met a real sailor and walked off". The ensign stormed off in out direction and myself and the other E4 gave the best salutes we have ever mustered as he really wanted to blast someone.

Response by PO3 Mark Weaver made Nov 18 at 2019 7:37 PM

2019-11-18T19:37:25-05:00

Response by SSG Joseph Nimeskern made Nov 18 at 2019 9:51 PM

2019-11-18T21:51:56-05:00

While I was walking out of the command headquarters as a SP5 in Class A's a SGT walked pass me, stopped, turned around and stated while saluting, "I am sorry sir, I was thinking of something and not paying attention!" I stated in return, "Don't salute me, I'm not an officer, I am a SP5!" He stated that the Specialist rank looked like a major while being caught off guard. Wow, go figure, a Specialist 5 being saluted by a NCO.

Response by Sgt Patrick Kane made Nov 18 at 2019 11:02 PM

2019-11-18T23:02:49-05:00

I had 3 days to go before I was to be discharged. I was in my office eating my lunch. I was reading an article in an old Playboy magazine. There was a knock on my door and I moved to open the door. When I saw it was the Chaplin and the Base Commander, I dropped the magazine on my desk and came to attention. I had recently been married and was in love with my wife's cooking and as a result had gained 7 pounds. To relax, I had undone my belt and unbuttoned the top button on my pants. As I was attempting to salute, my pants fell down and the magazine had landed with the centerfold in full view. It was at this point that I uttered some words of that I'm sure the Chaplin was not familiar with. I was later told that they were there to get me to re-enlist. They never did say anything that day or for the next 2 days that went by very slowly.

Response by SP5 Cynthia Anderson made Nov 19 at 2019 2:10 PM

2019-11-19T14:10:18-05:00

My shift was over at Fitzsimons Army Medical Center. I grabbed my hat and went outside and sat on the bench waiting for my ride. I had my enlisted SP5 rank on my nursing uniform. When people started coming out of the hospital, some looked at me strangely, and saluted me. I was just as confused as they were, so I saluted back. This went on for about 20 minutes. Some saluted, some didn't, some stared. I was beginning to feel a little awkward. Well, my class SFC came out, and stood in front of me and said, "Specialist Stendel. What rank are you?" And I told him, respectfully. He said, then why are you wearing a Captain's insignia on your cap?" I was so embarrassed. He told me to return the hat and get my own. I whipped it off my head, and ran back up to the fifth floor, and put the Captain's hat back and luckily found my own. I laughed afterwards. Way afterwards. It was funny, though.

Response by PO2 Sherry Walrath made Nov 19 at 2019 3:45 PM

2019-11-19T15:45:25-05:00

Mine hurt like the devil. Fresh out of boot camp and had just reported to my ship. Walking down the passageway and saw Khaki coming towards me. Got so nervous, I popped a salute, smacked the bulkhead with my elbow and dislocated it. Ouch!

Response by PO3 Robert Freeman made Nov 19 at 2019 11:15 PM

2019-11-19T23:15:06-05:00

Can I tell a second story? While at Naval Missile Center Pt. Mugu, CA photo lab, I was told to go to the motor pool, drive up the coast to Vandenberg AFB and get a package from their photo lab. Walking down the sidewalk at the air base "Wing Nuts" started saluting me. Finally I stopped a few and asked, "Have you ever seen a 20 year old Colonel?" The Airmen thought the "Crow" on my hat was an Eagle.

Response by CPT Curtis Jones made Nov 20 at 2019 10:13 AM

2019-11-20T10:13:08-05:00

We had a cadet in our unit at ROTC Summer Camp at Fort Bragg in the summer of 1969 who was on KP duty one day. A brand new 2LT walked by, expecting a salute, but the cadet didn’t salute because he didn’t think he had to while on KP duty. The LT said, “Cadet, straighten up those garbage cans.” The cadet looked at the garbage cans and commanded, “Garbage cans, dress right, DRESS,” and went on about his business. The LT, still looking for a salute, said, “Cadet, don’t you think you’ve forgotten something?” The cadet said, “Oh, right, sir,” looked at the garbage cans and commanded, “ready, FRONT.”

Response by PO3 Nicki Cook made Nov 20 at 2019 10:36 PM

2019-11-20T22:36:36-05:00

Long ago and far, far away (1964) another corpsman and I were headed for the front gate, yakking, when an ensign came strutting toward Norfolk NOB, Pier 12 and upon passing us, we hear, "Hey sailor..." and we stopped and turned about to a starchy, "Didn't you forget something?" After a quick pat of my jumper pocket and my wallet, I replied,"Nope, I got everything." The ensign replied, I mean a salute..." upon which I did an about-face, rejoined my shipmate and started towards the gate.
The ensign yelled, "Come back here!" I wheeled briskly about and shouted sharply back, "DO YOU know who I am ?" His reply was "No!" So, I just turned about and we resumed the trek to the gate! My friend frequently mused as to how many times I got away with that. My division officer thought it was hilarious, when, during a confab one evening at sea, a couple of the corpsmen told him about my bad habits. His response was, "Well, someone has to teach them."

Response by 1SG Martin Caldwell made Nov 21 at 2019 4:26 PM

2019-11-21T16:26:11-05:00

One time when as an E4 I encountered some basic officer students carrying books in their left hands I saluted with my left hand and they quickly switched the books to their right hand and returned the salute with their left looking thoroughly confused.

Response by MG Lou Hennies made Nov 22 at 2019 10:05 AM

2019-11-22T10:05:28-05:00

During a CG's meeting of Brigade and Battalion commanders, I was one of two aviation commanders in the room. The CG expressed anger regarding casualness in saluting properly and using an example, singled out my aviation counterpart regarding his warrant officers lack of saluting or saluting properly. I knew he would jump all over it and he did. Several weeks later during a commanders readiness meeting the two of us were briefing our readiness status to the CG and his readiness team and during the my counterpart's presentation said, " I want to thank you for finally getting your warrant officers squared away on their saluting but have one more request...could you tell them to take the cigarettes out of their mouths when saluting"

Response by SPC Michael Terrell made Nov 22 at 2019 10:34 PM

2019-11-22T22:34:39-05:00

I was stationed at Ft. Greely, Alaska in '74 as 26T20, and working at an AFRTS Radio & TV station. One typical winter day, I was trying to get into the old WW-II building. The door tended to freeze shut, so there I was. Snow blind. Freezing. Winds over 40 MPH, and it was below -40 as I made a second try, with both hands. This time the door opened, but it wasn't frozen. A body came flying at me, in a Kakhi uniform.

Unfortunately, I didn't see it in time, as I body slammed it back into the building. I still couldn't see, as I heard laughter, and four thuds. One of them said, 'At ease, Soldier!" so I knew that at least one of the thuds was an officer. It was worse than that! Three were officers, and the fourth was the Base's Top Sargent.

The man I had hit was smiling, but all I noticed at first were the two stars on each shoulder. I quickly saluted the General, then I saw his aide glaring at me. That Captain had a reputation worse that Frank Burns on M*A*S*H for being an ass, and he was bright red.

The other officer was the full Colonel who commanded Ft. Greely. He laughed and said, "Take it easy on me, Mike. I'm an old man!"

Top smiled and said, Thanks again for repairing my TV, it's still working great!"

The General was there on an inspection tour, where the Station Manager tried to take credit for a huge drop in complaints about the station. I had been sent out to collect programming survey forms, to keep him from meeting me.

The Station Manager tried to have me Court Martialed 'For destruction of Government Property and Dereliction of duty' for repairing station equipment outside a depot.' even though that was my MOS My company's captain gave him another choice. He could either put me in for promotion, or be busted from E8 to E1, and gave him 15 minutes. He needed help from the Company Clerk, but he made it by 17 seconds.

A couple weeks later the General was back, with his photographer. He put my SP4 pins on, and gave me a letter of Commendation for "Turning the biggest technical joke of any branch of the US Military, in this region of the world, into the smoothest running facility." I still have that letter, signed by Lt. General Marks, Commander of all thee Army bases in Alaska at that time. He told me that prior to my arrival, they filled five file cabinet drawers with written complaints about the shoddy operation of the station, and the poor signal quality of both the AM radio and TV stations.

Response by SSgt Jonathan Steele made Nov 24 at 2019 12:56 PM

2019-11-24T12:56:48-05:00

As I was transitioning from the Marines to the Army, I found myself in Ft Jackson, SC. The Captain in charge of the transitioning/receiving platoon asked me to walk with him and chat a bit. As the conversation developed, he asked me why I hadn't gone officer during my transition to the Army. I told him that I had considered it, but I figured officers worked at least twice as hard as enlisted. He looked at me, shocked, and asked, "how so," to which I replied, "well, Sir, you have to salute EVERYONE that walks by you!" This left him with a look of sober realization, haha!

Response by MAJ Bruce Knapp made Nov 25 at 2019 2:21 PM

2019-11-25T14:21:38-05:00

I did a left handed salute as a brand new cadet at Army ROTC Basic Camp - unexpectedly ran into the camp one-star and was so startled I did not have time to think

Response by SPC Allen Moore made Nov 25 at 2019 5:09 PM

2019-11-25T17:09:14-05:00

We were in the habit of putting our military ball cap in our back waist pants when not in use. One day after eating breakfast I had to go to the the latrine to take a crap but because I had to go bad and the latrine was close I didn't put on my ball. After I was done in the latrine I was looking for my ball cap but behold it was in the toilet and aI took a crap on it. On the way back to my hooch and no ball cap I saw a Colonel coming so I picked up my walking dance and made to my hooch but the Colonel came in and scolded me for not saluting him but I told him that way more then three paces from me. He warned me to never to do it again. I never told him what happened to my ball cap.

Response by SPC Michael Pectol made Nov 25 at 2019 11:12 PM

2019-11-25T23:12:46-05:00

My bad, I inadvertantly mistook the question as funnies story for entire time of service! New here.

Response by SPC Kenneth Sutphin made Nov 27 at 2019 2:26 AM

2019-11-27T02:26:01-05:00

As a PFC I was walking down the street at Ft Camblle KY when I saw a car approaching with a large star on the hood and as it passed me. I did not know what to do so I did nothing. A couple of minutes later the car came around again and stopped beside me. The General gave me a good talk on saluting and asked me why did not have my name sewed on my shirt and I told I was going to the seamstress to have it done. He asked me what my name was and I gave him a phoney and what unit and again I gave him the unit next to mine. I never heard anything about it.

Response by CW4 Stephen Carstensen made Nov 27 at 2019 9:41 AM

2019-11-27T09:41:53-05:00

In 1975 I was performing my Signals Intelligence functions as a United States Army Security Agency (USASA) Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) NCO at Torii Station, Okinawa Japan, long before Torii Station was designated the U.S. Army Garrison Torii Station in 2011.
It was early morning and a fellow SIGINT NCO, and I were walking to the entry gate to the Secure Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF), passing between the cars that were parked in front of the facility. There was a uniformed individual working on his car with the hood up and leaning into the engine compartment. As we were passing, the soldier came out from under the hood and said to us, “Excuse me, Soldiers, don’t you salute officer’s”. It’s then we noticed it was a lieutenant who was working on his car. As we were rendering a salute, a voice from behind us said, “they do, lieutenant, but they don’t salute axxholes”. The voice was that of Colonel David R. Wyszyanski, the station commander who had heard the lieutenant’s verbal admonishment of us.
We got a good chuckle about the Colonel’s admonishment to the lieutenant that morning.
CW4 Stephen Carstensen (Ret)
31 year’s service (encompassing 1967 – 2004)

Response by CPT William Pearson made Nov 27 at 2019 11:40 PM

2019-11-27T23:40:39-05:00

1968, Fort Benning IOBC June, Several new 2LTs....from all over the States. We car pooled on the weekends. One 2LT from Mississippi explained to five others that he would be a 1LT. In two weeks and he was letting us know ahead of time because he expected a salute from the rest of the “butter bars!”
We laughed so hard.....he stopped the car and said he could lock our heels! It never happened. I went to Ranger School with a smile on my face!
Thanks

Response by SFC Roy Hubbard made Dec 1 at 2019 4:02 PM

2019-12-01T16:02:23-05:00

I was a recruit at U.S.C.G. Basic Training, Cape May New Jersey. I had been there about a week when I was given a rifle to take to the armory for repairs. I was walking down the street trying to remember the proper way to carry a rifle from my R.O.T.C. days when I found myself approaching three officers abreast coming towards me. I started fumbling around trying to figure out how to salute with the rifle and maybe squeeze by. I heard, "Hold it sailor!" I froze. "How long you been the Coast Guard young man?" I replied," Almost all week sir!" All three officers started laughing and I was ordered to "Carry on!"

Response by Capt Henry Wolfskill made Dec 2 at 2019 2:54 AM

2019-12-02T02:54:06-05:00

I was walking by the Officer's Club Swimming Pool, at Lowry Air Force Base om my way into the club. I was looking at all the good looking ladies in their swimming suits and didn't notice a Captain walking out of the club who demanded that as a 2nd Lt I salute him. I stated that I did not see him and if his salute was so important, I reminded him that I had to recognize him to salute him To me the ladies were more important!

Response by SSgt Eric Akola made Dec 6 at 2019 8:30 PM

2019-12-06T20:30:03-05:00

A fellow Sgt. who just transfer from the Fire Dept to becoming a Loadmaster. His first trip after passing his check ride he felt that he did not have enough tie down chains. Going to several aircraft and taking a tie down chain from each aircraft he started dragging the chains back to his aircraft. A Col. saw him dragging the chains across the ramp at which time he yelled," Sgt. what are you doing dragging those chains across my ramp"? The Sgt. yelled back,"Col. have you tried pushing these MF"? A week or so later the Sgt. was in the Aircraft hanger when the Col. saw him and yelled,"Sgt. what does that sign on the wall say? The Sgt. yelled back, "Col. the sign says NO SMOKING". The Col. then said,"Sgt. what is that CIGAR doing in your mouth?, at which time the Sgt. said, Col. this CIGAR is not lit". The Col. then stated, "Sgt. as far as I am concerned if that CIGAR is in your mouth, I consider you're smoking it". The Sgt. then repiled, "Col. my ass is in my pants but I'm not shitting in them".

Response by PVT Roger Risner made Dec 11 at 2019 4:20 PM

2019-12-11T16:20:43-05:00

My funniest, and most embarrassment, our first inspection, as the caption came by we were to salute. Me being left handed, I saluted him saluted with my left hand. My Sargent laugh, and he got more chewing than me at that, time, but mine came from the Sarg. later, Saluting in fronting in front of mirror for hours, nd many push-ups.

Response by Capt Ray Gill made Dec 12 at 2019 1:33 AM

2019-12-12T01:33:34-05:00

My funniest salute story goes back over 40 years. I was prior enlisted and my first assignment involved me walking around alert B-52s. A Sgt didn’t get along with our new 2Lt Shift Commander, and he convinced many of us to salute the Lt with our left hand. We all agreed that when the Lt came around to do post checks we would render a left handed salute. He never came around to my post, however, based on the warning we all received at the next nights guardmount, it seems many did and were finally caught by the flight sergeant. Needless to say I was lucky because those who were caught had extra duty our next scheduled time off.

Response by Cpl John Bultman made Dec 15 at 2019 4:49 PM

2019-12-15T16:49:32-05:00

Before I went to Vietnam as a motivated Marine, I always saluted with my right hand.
That all changed when I returned, salty and injured. It was left handed from there on out and I was amazed that the Lt.'s never caught it.
The Gunny , however, said "let me guess", whatta they gonna do, send me to Vietnam"?
We had a few beers and laughed all night. It was the first time I'd laughed since being rotated back.
SEMPER FI

Response by PO3 Shelby Mckenzie made Dec 17 at 2019 9:14 AM

2019-12-17T09:14:29-05:00

I've done that before. I was stationed at Great Lakes for A School. My shipmate and I were coming out of the McDonald's on base, when a Lt. was getting ready to walk into the McDonald's and we were coming out with our hands full. I got so nervous and saluted her with my left hand. My shipmate and I started cracking up once she passed us.

Response by SSgt Ron Hein made Dec 18 at 2019 6:51 PM

2019-12-18T18:51:48-05:00

I was Air Force and assigned to III MAF in Nam. I was wearing camo with no insignias on them. As I was entering III MAF headquarters 3 Generals came out with a Col. following. I saluted the Col. stopped me and said Marine why are you wearing that doggy hat. I came to attention and said Airman first class Ronald Hein US Air Force TDA US Marine Corp. He told me the get Air Force stripes on the camos. I never did because being assigned to the Marine Corp we just turned out uniforms in and were given clean ones. I went to the DaNag AFB base to get my pay and was wearing a bush hat. They would not pay me till I got a AF baseball cap. In Nam I was assigned to the USMC for 6 months and USA for 6 months. I spent a whole 5 days with the AF.

Response by 1st Lt Raymond Kreps made Dec 19 at 2019 10:46 AM

2019-12-19T10:46:07-05:00

As an aviation cadet I was walking down the flight line with my parachute over my right shoulder and as I passed a Capt on the flight line I saluted him with a left handed salute. Needless to say I was chewed out for that infraction. I always carried my parachute over my left shoulder after that.

Response by SGT Michael Carter made Dec 19 at 2019 3:15 PM

2019-12-19T15:15:47-05:00

When I was a new trainee at Ft Monmouth, NJ, as a PFC and then a Corporal, I would on occasion when walking on the main boulevard through the base, when I encountered a "butter bar" LT, I would snap a quick salute with my left hand to see how many of them would salute me back left handed. Surprisingly, it was about 30%. I only had to pull doorknob polishing duty a couple of times over this antic. Kept us laughing.

Response by A1C George Torjussen made Dec 19 at 2019 6:00 PM

2019-12-19T18:00:44-05:00

Enlisting in the Air Force during the Korean War, I was given flight crew wings and assigned as security chief to deliver atom bombs to friendly Countries and Islands all over the globe in the humongus C124c Globemaster averaging 21 day flying time per month. To help keep myself sane and not too absorbent of military discipline, I played little games. From 1953-'55 I would show up for each flight in regulation fatigues and as soon as we took off - I took off my fatigue cap and never wore it on the bases we landed on through the whole flight, Of course in towns we wore class A Ike jackets etc. I know, very childish ! On some Pacific island with an identical giant mess hall to all of them, our in flight mechanic who I'd corrupted - and I left our caps aboard ship and took all manner of dodging routes to Lunch in order to avoid the normal dress expectation of those who unknowingly busy themselves on that side of the game. The plan as always was to avoid the front entrance and make our way to the rear loading dock where often KP guys were sitting pealing and trimming vegetables. We were only 2 thirds of the way down the long side of the building when a two star General swung around from the rear of the mess hall and walked briskly towards us. We froze and banged our bare foreheads with stiff salutes as he actually returned ours with an inquisitive smile. I didn't wait to hear the worst which I expected and lamely told him of my game, With a wink as he continued on his way, he joked - " Well, since I wasn't advised as to the rules of your game, he smiled, I'm not joining in " - and off he went.

Response by MSgt Vernie Treadway made Dec 19 at 2019 6:39 PM

2019-12-19T18:39:55-05:00

My funniest Salute happend in Japan. I was taking a break and when entering the Snack Bar I saw a General on the way out. It was in late afyernoon and I Popped a Salute and said GOOD Morning Sir. He just said Good Morning Son. I was sort of embarrest by that. During a trip to Japan while traveling on Space A We landed in Cold Bay Alaska It was very Cold and I was a Courier Gaurd fpr a Captain. He said He was going in the Air Terminal to get a few few bites to eat.As His Guard I had to stay on board the Plane. He Returned shortly after and asked Me if I was hungry and could use a snack but I was not dressed to get out in that cold,He offered me His Coat to wear,I put it on and got off the plane, On the way to the Terminal I passed 2 Leutenants and they both Saluted as they passed. I again Saluted in return. I forgot to cover the Captains Bars on the Coat. We both had a good laugh.

Response by CPT Michelle Morgan made Dec 19 at 2019 10:56 PM

2019-12-19T22:56:30-05:00

It was a Sunday afternoon during Basic Training and I had been tasked to pull KP duty. After my kitchen duties we're finished, I was released. So, I stopped by the PX and got a few items that I needed such as toiletry items and laundry soap. As I was walking back to the barracks, I was swinging my bag & it broke sending my items into some near by bushes. I ran to retrieve my items and saw a company approaching from the opposite direction. I tried to hide in the bushes as they marched by but the Drill Sergeant saw me. As he continued to match by with his troops, the DS yells, ”Private, what are you doing in those bushes?” I stood at attention and saluted him and said, ”My bag broke Drill Sergeant.” He shook his head and marched on by.

Response by SGT Wayne Smith made Dec 21 at 2019 3:01 PM

2019-12-21T15:01:25-05:00

In Oct. 1967 I was deployed to Vietnam after 8 weeks of Basic at Ft. Benning, Ga., and 8 weeks of AIT at Ft. Polk, La. Needless to say I did countless push-ups during those 16 weeks for "failure to salute an Officer". After a couple of days in-country in Vietnam I was sent to my assigned unit at a base camp out in the boonies. On my way to my Platoon area I met a 2nd Louie and, upon seeing the bar on his collar, I instinctively snapped a salute. He grabbed my hand and jerked it down and told me in no uncertain terms that if I ever saluted him again out in the field he would break my f!@#$%@g arm!! He then explained that if a sniper were watching and saw me salute him then the sniper would know he was an officer and would take him out first.
We became good friends during our Tour of Duty, and as it turned out he became the Company XO for the last couple of months there. He got me in out of the field to Long Binh headquarters for the last week or so of my time in-country.

Response by SGT Wayne Smith made Dec 21 at 2019 3:03 PM

2019-12-21T15:03:46-05:00

In Oct. 1967 I was deployed to Vietnam after 8 weeks of Basic at Ft. Benning, Ga., and 8 weeks of AIT at Ft. Polk, La. Needless to say I did countless push-ups during those 16 weeks for "Failure to salute an Officer". After a couple of days in-country in Vietnam I was sent to my assigned unit at a base camp out in the boonies. On my way to my Platoon area I met a 2nd Louie and, upon seeing the bar on his collar, I instinctively snapped a salute. He grabbed my hand and jerked it down and told me in no uncertain terms that if I ever saluted him again out in the field he would break my f!@#$%@g arm!! He then explained that if a sniper were watching and saw me salute him then the sniper would know he was an officer and would take him out first.
We became good friends during our Tour of Duty, and as it turned out he became the Company XO for the last couple of months there. He got me in out of the field to Long Binh headquarters for the last week or so of my time in-country.

Response by SP5 Kathryn Hatch made Dec 25 at 2019 3:30 PM

2019-12-25T15:30:28-05:00

Mine was in 1975 when I was stationed at a Navy Base - Pensacola Florida. Part of the base was for training Army, Marine, and Air Force soldiers. I was an Army E-4 female soldier (not many at the time) stationed permanent party and my dress uniform included a black berret with a circular eagle brass insignia. A young Navy soldier saluted me while I was walking in front of the Base Commander's offices. I was so nervous because it was in front of the Commander's offices - I saluted him back. This was not the last time since the school had a high turnover rate due to the training time. I left early for work because I made sure I had time to explain I was not an officer.

Response by SSgt Robin Kennedy made Jan 1 at 2020 8:24 PM

2020-01-01T20:24:46-05:00

Mine was when I was TDY to Korea and I broke my right wrist. It was winter and very cold. I started to cross a street when I looked up there was a 1 star general. I immediately saluted and cracked my forehead with my cast. He stopped and said dont knock yourself out saluting, and laughed. told me dont worry about saluting till my cast was off.

Response by LCpl Arthur Pettitt made Jan 1 at 2020 8:35 PM

2020-01-01T20:35:54-05:00

I got to MCRD DAGO straight from ait Lejune. I was there about 2 weeks when a female marine capt. CAME TOWARD ME. I GAVE MY BEST SALUTE WITH a GOOD MORNING SIR. SHE LET OUT A SCREAM MARINE DO I LOOK LIKE I HAVE BALLS BETWEEN MY LEGS. I SAID NO SIR. SHE REPLIED THEN WHY IN THE HELL ARE YOU CALLING ME SIR? I'M NOT SURE BUT I THINK SHE THOUGHT I WAS A NEW RECRUIT. This was in 1962.

Response by SCPO Robert Gjertson made Jan 1 at 2020 8:50 PM

2020-01-01T20:50:01-05:00

On my way home from boot camp in San Diego, we had to change planes in Denver. Two of us popped a good one to an airline captain.

Response by SCPO Robert Gjertson made Jan 1 at 2020 8:55 PM

2020-01-01T20:55:38-05:00

When I was assigned to the 3rd Marine Division on Okinawa, I was walking out of the PX with a stereo receiver on my right shoulder. As I passed a Marine 2nd Lt, I saluted him with my left hand. All he said was “Goddam Navy”

Response by SPC Scott Young made Jan 1 at 2020 9:01 PM

2020-01-01T21:01:46-05:00

I was a Blackhawk crew chief deployed to Bosnia in 1996 as a PFC. I had to run from my helicopter to the Company TOC and on my way back I was moving pretty fast. I was in my flight suit so I was mistaken for a pilot by a SFC who threw up a salute. All I could say was the first thing that jumped into my head... "Drive on Sergeant!" And prayed he didn't realize what just happened as I hauled it double time back to the aircraft!

Response by Capt Brian Byrne made Jan 1 at 2020 9:18 PM

2020-01-01T21:18:14-05:00

As a brand new 2LT I needed to get all my shots. The med techs gave them all in my right arm. For the next three days it was agony to salute. After that, every time I needed a shot I asked to have them do it in my left arm

Response by SMSgt Mike Morris made Jan 1 at 2020 9:22 PM

2020-01-01T21:22:07-05:00

As a new Airman, I spotted a foreign service member walking toward me. I could not tell from the uniform if he was an officer or enlisted so at the last second I saluted to be safe. He quickly raised his hand for salute but had a cigarette in his hand. He jerked his hand away just as sparks from the cigarette barely missed his face. I kept my gaze straight ahead, picked up my step and didn't say a word!

Response by MAJ Frank Galin made Jan 1 at 2020 9:37 PM

2020-01-01T21:37:56-05:00

Went Air Force Academy to teach class, cadet saluted me but he was out of my peripheral vision. He held salute and followed me all the way to class room until I saw him and returned his salute!

Response by Cpl Jose Rodriguez made Jan 1 at 2020 9:51 PM

2020-01-01T21:51:23-05:00

Working the front gate at Camp Geiger IRT at approximately 0215
When I observed a Lt approach the gate and he appeared to be slightly intoxicated I would salute him with my left hand real sharp. They never noticed the difference.

Response by SPC Trent Harlan made Jan 1 at 2020 9:59 PM

2020-01-01T21:59:08-05:00

I was at AIT Ft Lee VA as an E-2, coming out of the snack bar holding a can of soda that I was really enjoying seeing as we weren't allowed to have them very often , I had the can in my right hand ( I am right handed) I look up and 20 yds in front of me headed my direction is a Capt. For some reason I panic and my left hand flies up to the brim of my cover and I salute him left handed with the snappiest salute I had ever done. The second I did it I knew I messed up and sure enough he stopped dead in his tracks and Quickly schooled me on how to properly salute an officer. I stood there for a very long time rendering salutes to that man.

Response by MSG Gary George made Jan 1 at 2020 10:04 PM

2020-01-01T22:04:08-05:00

Our unit crest was a star at the bottom and silver. We were sitting outside a dental clinic waiting to be called in or come out. A LTC was coming out when one of our PFC's was walking in and received a salute from the LTC. I got my 1SG twice before he figured it out.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2020 10:23 PM

2020-01-01T22:23:29-05:00

I was a WOC, Warrant Officer Candidate, at Ft. Wolters, Texas in 1969. Having been eliminated from rotary wing flight school, like hundreds of other WOC's due to a lull in the war, I was feeling pretty low and I forgot my ball cap and while walking down a sidewalk I passed a Second Lieutenant and saluted him with my left hand. I made it five steps past him when he yelled 'WOC, did you just salute me with your left hand and where the hell is your cover'. I assured him I would NEVER salute an officer with my left hand and my ball cap was blown off by a Huey which just landed near the PX. He glared at me, shook his head, made me salute him and ordered me back to my barracks to get another baseball cap.

Response by SPC Bill Palmer made Jan 1 at 2020 10:23 PM

2020-01-01T22:23:44-05:00

In Basic Training I threw a sloppy salute to the Bn. Cdr. He drilled me in proper saluting for 15 minutes. 2 yeas later, while in the Command Color Guard at a multi-national military function, I had to stand and salute through 4 national anthems, while the Command Sgt. Major drilled me with a piercing gaze. After the ceremonies he approached and asked where I learned to salute so well. I told him and he said, "I thought so, Son. I trained that officer to salute."

Response by PO2 Jeoffrey Balbuena made Jan 1 at 2020 10:32 PM

2020-01-01T22:32:14-05:00

I dont quite recall if this happened onboard USS Stennis or USS Reagan but we were on duty during our port call. There were 3 of us in our maintenance control a pilot Lt. , my chief and i a 3rd class at a time. We were having a conversation and all of sudden came in the room but and it was the capt of the carrier instead of yelling attention on deck i end up saying wassup cap. And my superior was like i know u did not just say whats up to the spread eagle O-6. Lol

Response by Lt Col James Sloan made Jan 1 at 2020 10:44 PM

2020-01-01T22:44:38-05:00

Mine is as a victim of the first one on this list: the marathon salute. My first day at Amarillo AFB was preceded by an auto breakdown, a kid with an ear infection, and arriving at the base broke and without any help in sight. I got caught in one of those "here comes a lieutenant" maneuvers, and spent my first twenty minutes outside the VOQ with my right hand half-cocked returning new airmen's' salutes. Last one in the line was an E-5, whom I stopped. I told him my story and asked how to find the Personnel. Accounting & Finance building. The sergeant apologized for the lieutenant-vigilantes, then personally escorted me to the building, where one of his buddies ( a finance clerk) set me up with a $300 Uniform Allowance advance and some other fiscal help. When I got back to my room, my wife had tears of joy when she saw the money, and we took my son to the infirmary for some penicillin. Never got caught in the lieutenants' booby trap again, though.

Response by PO3 Red Smith made Jan 1 at 2020 10:52 PM

2020-01-01T22:52:25-05:00

So we were in Hong Kong 1961 I was coxwisn of th capt gig .captain wanted to go ashore all day (9.00 am) we left.
Captain came back at 4.oo pm
We were all 3 sheets the wind .
I went to salute the capt and knocked his
Hat in the water...
Red

Response by PO1 Redge Walker made Jan 1 at 2020 11:01 PM

2020-01-01T23:01:38-05:00

In 1943 I was stationed for a while on the USS Vulcan in the port of Oran, North Africa. The Vulcan was designated as battle ship repair. It had a large and busy crew with frequent departures from the ship and return to the ship from onshore. To do either you were required to salute the duty officer and request to go ashore or come aboard. A group of us decided that the officer really did not pay attention to what was being said. We decided to test this hypothesis by saying, not real clearly, how is you grandmother, sir? His response was permission granted. Frequent reputations got the same response. Then, on my last effort the officer showed a faint smile and said permission granted. I did not further press my luck.

Response by CPL Theodore Moore made Jan 1 at 2020 11:15 PM

2020-01-01T23:15:52-05:00

A pregnant Specialist I knew had terrible morning sickness. Everyday she would go out to her appointed spot on the sidewalk and vomit. One day, the base commander, a Brigadier General, walked up on her as she was shaking and about to get sick. He said, "Soldier! What's the matter with you? Don't you know to salute an officer?"
The poor girl turned to face the man and her stomach gave way and the contents of her last meal exploded on to his boots. We saved her by explaining the situation. Everyone agreed it was hilarious.

Response by CDR Mike Beidler made Jan 1 at 2020 11:20 PM

2020-01-01T23:20:40-05:00

As a senior lieutenant serving aboard USS BOXER in the early years of the 21st Century, [:::insert facetiousness here:::] I noticed that I was developing tendinitis in my right elbow due to all of the saluting as I walked from the pier gate to the ship. It ended up being more expedient (and physically therapeutic) to keep my salute as I passed member upon member of the enlisted community dutifully saluting me during the entire quarter-mile stroll. I loved that my fellow shipmates understood my situation.

Response by Sgt Ron Vincent made Jan 1 at 2020 11:23 PM

2020-01-01T23:23:15-05:00

I smoked a pipe. As a fellow airman and I rounded the corner of a building we were surprised by an officer just a few feet away. Forgetting the pipe in my mouth, I quickly saluted. My rising hand sent the tobacco pipe spinning upward and showering me with sparks as I struggled to salute while also trying to keep the pipe from landing on the officer. I caught the pipe but hit my cap which then went flying. The officer returned the salute and tried not to stare but he couldn't control the laughter as he walked away. I gave up smoking not long afterward.

Response by 1SG Bill Hardy made Jan 1 at 2020 11:48 PM

2020-01-01T23:48:02-05:00

I was new to the Army and we deployed to a Naval base in Spain. I exited the NEX with th sun in my eyes all I could see was the reflection of medals. I whipped up snappy salute and a high and hearty Good Morning Sir. I didn't get a salute back suddenly a voice behind me said you just saluted the High School Band Leader.

Response by SSgt Jim Young made Jan 1 at 2020 11:52 PM

2020-01-01T23:52:47-05:00

I was stationed at Cam Ranh Bay South Vietnam in 1967. I was a medic at our 10th Tactical Hospital. President Lyndon Johnson was visiting our hospital giving out Purple Hearts and I was trying to get a closeup of him doing that. Armed with my Yashica 35 mm camera, I climbed up on a small nightstand next to the bed of a young wounded airman. As the President was pinning the medal on the young man, I was trying to focus the camera on the scene and I lost my balance, and a Secret Service guy steadied me. The President looked up and said “Be careful there son”. I saluted him back. I kept his advice close and came back home safely in January 1968. Even though I had a close call and was a passenger in a C-130 aircraft that was hit with small arms fire while landing at Phan Rang Airbase in Jul 67. I looked down at my arm and saw red fluid. No pain though and found out it was hydraulic fluid from the gunfire while we were on approach to landing. The plane filled with smoke and we were bailing out the back while still taxing. Thought it might catch on fire. They put us in a field for about five hours and fixed the lines and we continued the flight. We counted about fifty bullet holes in the fuselage. Thanks President Johnson for that great advice.

Response by MSG Brenda Neal made Jan 2 at 2020 12:06 AM

2020-01-02T00:06:40-05:00

I was a rebel about saluting anyone after getting out of basic. I'd cross the street or duck into a doorway. I deliberately dropped my hat once on the sidewalk and when I stood up the Lt. was standing there waiting for me to salute.

Response by SMSgt Andre Karr made Jan 2 at 2020 12:18 AM

2020-01-02T00:18:11-05:00

As an E-8, made it back to Lackland AFB, our Basic Training base, to conduct other business. Was in my service dress and came across three recruits marching in step towards me. They were so nervous when they saw me, they all saluted me with a half confused and half dazed look....I returned the salute of course

Response by COL Stuart Kidder made Jan 2 at 2020 12:18 AM

2020-01-02T00:18:30-05:00

I was a Captain stationed in Korea, and I went to China for a week over Christmas. I was out for my morning run, and was running around Tiananmen Square. Chinese soldiers stand watch at the corners of the square, and I ran by one. Obviously he recognized me as a GI, and when I got close, he came to attention and saluted me. Out of instinct I saluted back. In his best English he said I win, what's your rank? I kept salutes to myself for the rest of the trip.0

Response by 1st Lt Tyll Parker made Jan 2 at 2020 12:48 AM

2020-01-02T00:48:03-05:00

Don’t have a funniest, but the sharpest salute I ever got was from a young SP at the Travis AFB main gate. I snap and popped off my Grade-A Best Highball. I got an enthusiastic thumbs up and had a great day. (Lifted my spirits; was being separated-1Lt. Didn’t make Captain.)

Response by Lt Col Charles Wood made Jan 2 at 2020 12:50 AM

2020-01-02T00:50:29-05:00

For my first assignment after I enlisted in the U.S.Air Force, I attended the Reciprocating Engine Mechanic School at Chanute AFB, Illinois. The curriculum of this six-month school was to completely disassemble a giant 28-cylinder R-4360 aircraft engine, re-assemble it, and start it up.

I saw my first snow at Chanute -- a lot of it. I also saw my first Major there. I was walking down an icy sidewalk bundled up in my oversized overcoat, scarf, boots and gloves, and suddenly I saw a Major walking towards me. I’d seen quite a few Lieutenants in my time, but a Major! Yikes! Being properly trained in military custom I was not only going to salute this Major, but I was going to salute the heck out of him! So as he approached me I hauled off and gave him the snappiest salute I could muster. I then learned what my high school science teacher tried to tell us about Newton’s Law of Motion - I slipped on the ice, my right glove (spring loaded by my oversized sleeve) flew into the air about 20 feet, and I did a double back flip into my own navel. The Major just shook his head and didn’t even return my salute

Charlie Wood
LtColonel USAF (Ret)

Response by Cpl Christi Price made Jan 2 at 2020 12:53 AM

2020-01-02T00:53:02-05:00

I was in boot camp at Paris Island and was in front of the barracks with the "butt can." We were being drilled on always having your right hand free to salute, so I was smoking with my left hand. The squadron Lt came up the walk toward me and as I came to attention for the salute, I realized i was holding an unlit cigarette and matches in my right hand. I saluted her with my thumb wrapped around the smokes so I wouldn't drop them. The Lt was pretty cool about it and told me that next time to be sure my hand is empty before I salute.

Response by CPL David Thiessen made Jan 2 at 2020 12:55 AM

2020-01-02T00:55:27-05:00

When l was stationed at Aberdeen Proving Ground as a MP, we were told that we were supposed to wave them through then salute them if they were an officer. One day l was at the gate for my shift and they had a big meeting with a lot of officers. By the end of the day my right arm felt like l had gone 10 rounds with Ali. Then just before the end of my shift a Col. arrived at the gate running late because of car trouble. The only trouble that he was driving a car with an enlisted sticker on it. When he stopped and asked why I didn't salute him as he approached the gate, I saluted him and explained we were told to salute vehicles with the blue officers tag on the front bumper. I appoligized to him for the delay and saluted him again as he drove away.

Response by PO3 Joseph Mcleod made Jan 2 at 2020 1:38 AM

2020-01-02T01:38:39-05:00

Okinawa Japan was an education in brass for me. as an E-2 in marine field uniform my emblems were caduceus and two angled rank bars on my lapels. Walking to mess at Kadina air base was an adventure, everyone saluted me in the chow line and eventually a full bird stepped up and invited me to dine in the officers mess. After explaining my rank to him while at attention and full salute he laughed at me and ordered me to accompany him to lunch. This was the most uncomfortable lunch i ever spent until he informed me that the corpsman i had replace was known for sneaking into the the officers mess and having lunch each day.

Response by Sgt Carol Patterson made Jan 2 at 2020 2:08 AM

2020-01-02T02:08:54-05:00

Exiting the Mail center I walked right by a 2nd LT without salting (I was reading a letter). He made me stand at attention and salute continually until he exited the mail center. A Full Bird saw this from the parking lot and, in turn, made the Butter Bar do the same for him while he went in to get his mail. The Bird winked at me as I was relieved of the saluting farce.

Response by GySgt Adrian Shields made Jan 2 at 2020 2:18 AM

2020-01-02T02:18:22-05:00

Joined in June '89. I was informed during 2nd phase of bootcamp every Marine was going to combat training for a month after bootcamp for "MCT". When we arrived at MCT, there was still some confusion delays and we spent the better part of the first day on the large parking lot between the quanset huts & Chow hall standing by for our next movement. When Chow call was sounded over the PA system for lunch, we saw an overweight sailor that was walking by stop, turn around, come to the Navy's equivalent of attention & salute the chow hall. Needless to say, an entire company of Marines lost our bearing & had quite a laugh.

Response by Sgt Steve Roach made Jan 2 at 2020 3:39 AM

2020-01-02T03:39:06-05:00

As an A1C in 1973, I was stationed at Plattsburgh AFB, a SAC base in upstate N.Y.. I was on the sidewalk leaving the BX in my fatigues and two 2nd LTs were walking towards me. I noticed that one of the LTs was wearing his Garrison cap on backwards with the gold bar in the back, (what an opportunity !), As they got closer I turned my fatigue cap around backwards on my head and saluted. We passed each other, both stopping and turning around, with me expecting to get a butt chewing from the LT. He then lifted his Garrison cap, rotated it around 180 degrees, turned back around and kept walking.

Response by LT David Petty made Jan 2 at 2020 4:22 AM

2020-01-02T04:22:32-05:00

Back when I was a Chief Petty Officer working at the Pentagon, there were always a million officers to salute on the way into work everyday. One morning, I saluted an Army Specialist thinking he was a 1-Star General! The best part of the story is that he returned my salute.

Response by SGT Richard Sprague made Jan 2 at 2020 4:49 AM

2020-01-02T04:49:14-05:00

Not being able to re-enlist in the Marines after being out to long I joined the National Guard. On my first deployment for OIF there were about 20 plus soldiers saluting a Navy Master Chief Petty Officer. He looked looked confused. I asked him if everything was okay. He said he could not understand why he was getting saluted. I told him soldiers were told to salute all brass on the lapel. He walked of saying, they think I am a commissioned officer.

Response by PO3 Shellie Simkins made Jan 2 at 2020 5:13 AM

2020-01-02T05:13:25-05:00

In bootcamp I was standing watch at our barracks door. The base CO came in the front door with PT gear on with CO RTC on the shirt....I didn't know what it meant. I didn't salute nor did i call "Attention on deck"! In my defense it was the 1st or 2nd week. I never made that mistake again.

Response by SSG Jeanne Duby made Jan 2 at 2020 6:18 AM

2020-01-02T06:18:40-05:00

At the time, Walter Reed had a no hat no salute area. As I was walking through I passed a lieutenant and didn't salute and had no cover on. He started a rant on me. I pointed above his shoulder and he turned around to see the sign "NO HAT NO SALUTE AREA". He about died and apologized profusely.

Response by SFC Ruth Beall made Jan 2 at 2020 6:21 AM

2020-01-02T06:21:10-05:00

When I was in basic training at Fort McClellan in 1977, our company was being marched to a training class one day not long after we had learned how to salute officers. As we prepared to enter the building, some officers came out, and one of them held the door open for us as we filed single-file into the building. We all saluted, and the officers graciously returned all of our salutes. Our drill sergeants were shaking their heads and hiding their eyes, and the officers were laughing. We thought it was just because they had to return so many salutes at one time. Once we got into the classroom, our drill sergeants were quick to educate us... We had not been told that when in formation or moving as a group, only one person salutes for the whole group!

Response by Amn Fred Teall made Jan 2 at 2020 7:42 AM

2020-01-02T07:42:17-05:00

Dec, 1959 Torrejon AFB Spain. President Dwight Eisenhower was there for a meeting with the dictator of Spain Fransisco Franco . The meeting was to be held in Madrid , most of the base personnel were serving as honor guards for President Eisenhower, we we’re stationed along both sides of the road from the flight line to the main gate. His car approached ,we came to attention and all saluted, as he was passing my position the person next to me altered his salute from the standard to his thumb touching the bill and his fingers waving like a child would do , Ike was returning the salute , when he saw this particular airman he returned the same salute waving his fingers. Got to love a commander in Chief like that.

Response by PO3 Fred Taylor made Jan 2 at 2020 8:01 AM

2020-01-02T08:01:49-05:00

It was winter outside and I was walking back to the ship from the phone booth @ end of pier. I saw an officer approaching I was still an E3 I had my work uniform on and my green work coat. I put my head down so it appeared I wasn’t looking up at him. As we were about to pass he says to my as he rendered a salute afternoon sir and saluted me. I kind of glanced up and said carry on sailor without saluting hands still in my pockets. Oh did I mention I had a gold check mark on my ballcap from giving money to unicef I believe. He didn’t know my rank so he saluted me. Boot camp

Response by Sgt Karen Sweigart made Jan 2 at 2020 8:02 AM

2020-01-02T08:02:37-05:00

Standing at salute in formation during basic training a bird left a mess on my hat, dripped down my face. I maintained stance!

Response by TSgt Jerome Trombley made Jan 2 at 2020 8:07 AM

2020-01-02T08:07:29-05:00

While in basic training at Ft. Knox in February, 1977, I was walking across a parking lot on a rainy, windy day. I met a Captain going the opposite direction and rendered the proper salute. His cover blew off in the wind and was rolling across the lot and he ordered me to catch it for him. I was running after his cover at a good clip when his cover abruptly stopped, but I couldn't! I stepped on his cover smashing it and getting it filthy in the mud. I took it back and handed it to him expecting an ass chewing. He didn't say a word. He couldn't. I had essentially fulfilled his illegal order to attend to his personal property.

Response by PO2 Terry Smith made Jan 2 at 2020 8:34 AM

2020-01-02T08:34:47-05:00

After serving in Vietnam, I returned to go to college while serving in the Navy Reserve. One summer I had a temporary assignment to Washington D.C. to work at the Washington Navy Yard. Going to lunch, I walked out of a building straight into the sun. A group of people were walking toward me to enter the building. When my eyes adjusted to the sun, there was Admiral Zumwalt, Chief of Naval Operations and his whole cadre saluting an E5 as I strolled past them. When I finally saw them, I tried to return the salute but they had just passed. Now I tell my friends and family that I was so important that the Chief of Naval Operations saluted me.

Response by A1C Jj Birchard made Jan 2 at 2020 8:49 AM

2020-01-02T08:49:59-05:00

Not exactly a salute story but I ran with a guy named Fred Major. He was at the head one day taking a leak. There was a major at one of the urinals near him. One of Fred's buddies came in and said to Fred: 'Hey Major, hows it hanging?' The major turned around and asked 'who the hell you think your talking to Airman! Fred showed the major his mane tag and defused the situation. I see Fred every once in a while and always ask him how it hanging major?

Response by SGT Monica Rickards made Jan 2 at 2020 8:50 AM

2020-01-02T08:50:00-05:00

I remember back in basic training I was walking back from sick call...only 3 days in...and this Jeep kept circling around me and coming back. Finally it stopped and the officer said “soldier what’s your unit” so I told him. He said “don’t you know what this flag on this Jeep means ?” I replied no. Well I am the base commander and you are supposed to salute me when I pass by. So up went my hand. He said that’s better and moved on. Then he went on to explain that I am to salute cars with blue decals on them. I found myself saluting every car. When I got back to my unit my CO called me in her office and made me salute a tree for 2 hours outside of her office. Something you never forget!

Response by MSgt Brandon Hamner made Jan 2 at 2020 9:00 AM

2020-01-02T09:00:28-05:00

We were deployed to Prince Sultan AB in Saudi Arabia. My buddy and I were walking back to our barracks one early evening and heard the Nation Anthem playing. It seemed unusual and very faint so I quickly looked around and there was no movement in the area. (It just happened to be a coincidence there were no vehicles being operated in the area and no one else visible from where we were standing).
I saluted in the direction I thought the Flag was located and my buddy followed suit. We were both in the Air National Guard at the time but I was prior service and he wasn't which was why he thought I knew what I was doing. About 30 seconds into the salute a truck came by and I thought 'that un-Patriotic SOB'. A few seconds after that a small group of people walked from behind the large Alaskan shelter tent and chuckled a bit. They didn't say anything probably because they were E-2's and E-3's and I was an E-5 and my buddy was E-6. I'm a little slow but it was at that point I realized why we looked like two jackasses. We were standing next to the movie theater tent and they were playing the Anthem to begin the movie! We continue our walk to the barracks where the conversation turned to him saying " your not going to tell anyone about this are you" to which I replied "you can count on me"!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2020 9:03 AM

2020-01-02T09:03:44-05:00

I was walking alongside a Lt. Col. one day when I spied two Specialists walking toward us. The two quickly crossed the street as they saw my walking partner and averted their eyes as they passed. After a few steps I realized what had occurred and asked, "Sir, did they salute you?" 'No,' came the reply. "Pardon me a moment, sir." I chased down the Specialists and asked why they hadn't saluted. 'We didn't see him,' they answered. "Bull$#i7," I replied. "Look, there is only ONE thing that we enlisted can make an officer do, and that is return our salute. That guy wanted to be an officer? Okay! I'm gonna make him salute me back!" I saw a little glitter go off in each of their eyes. I returned to the Lt. Col. and said, "I don't think they'll make that mistake again, sir." He replied, 'Good job!'

Response by Amn Debra Prosch made Jan 2 at 2020 9:07 AM

2020-01-02T09:07:28-05:00

First of all, I thought I was the only one that had one, lol. Right after basic I had just finished grocery shopping. I am left handed so had the groceries in my right arm as I was walking back to my car. A Major approached me as I panicked. My mind raced as he quickly approached and I deciphered what to do. That left hand FLEW up before I knew what was happening. The major God Bless Him, saluted me back as he chuckled under his breath.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2020 9:08 AM

2020-01-02T09:08:08-05:00

On another occasion I was overseas and saw three Japanese ASDF aviators walking toward me. I remembered some sage advice ("If in doubt, salute!) once given me as I realized that I had no idea what their rank was and I saluted. All three busted out laughing. I had saluted a corporal!

Response by CPT Paul Jensen made Jan 2 at 2020 9:09 AM

2020-01-02T09:09:54-05:00

I was a cadet at West Point on my way to my first class. I was carrying my books in my left hand and my Calculator in my right hand. I bolted around the corner on Thayer Rd and ran straight into the dean of the academic board, Brigadier Genl Fred Smith. Instinctively I raised my right hand and gave him a “calculator salute“. I felt really stupid but did think it apropos that the dean got a salute with a calculator.

Response by CPT Robert Potter made Jan 2 at 2020 9:23 AM

2020-01-02T09:23:23-05:00

I was a 2nd Lt. just beginning officer basic training at Ft. Bliss, TX, and had been in the Army all day. In our initial briefing that morning we were told that Taps would be broadcast at 1700 hrs while the flag was lowered. The requirement that all personnel face the flag and salute was strongly emphasized. While driving back to our quarters that evening, a fellow newbie and I heard the sound of a bugle being broadcast throughout the post. I immediately pulled my car over and we exited the car and stood at parade rest waiting for Taps to begin. A staff car with a star on the front plate also pulled over, having obviously seen us standing at parade rest ready for the playing of Taps. A driver and Brigadier General exited the car and assumed the position of parade rest as well. After about a minute the General looked at his watch, then looked at us, then said something to his driver. They got back into their car and drove away. No one had told us that a warning bugle would be broadcast 15 minutes prior to the actual playing of Taps. I'm sure the General and his driver had quite a chuckle that evening.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2020 9:25 AM

2020-01-02T09:25:54-05:00

My third and final salute story. My Cavalry squadron was in Korea for Team Spirit '85 and we were camped on a tactical air strip owned by the Korean 24th ID. Our tents, motor pool and camp were set up around the pavement at the south end of the strip, and our airfield was the north end of the strip. Assuming as a group that we were 'in the field' no one saluted. After a few days word came down from our Squadron commander that we were in garrison and we would salute in garrison. The next day after a large training flight of around 20 of our aircraft (we had assigned AH-1S Cobras, OH-58A Kiowas [or 'Scooters' as we called them] and UH-1H Hueys) about 50 tankers from our A Troop (M60s and M113s) lined up 6 paces apart right down the dashed center line of the air strip and saluted each pilot as they walked back to their tents. Most of the pilots just held their salute and mumbled curses all the way down the line. One of the pilots was the commander!

Response by MAJ Dan Kearney made Jan 2 at 2020 9:26 AM

2020-01-02T09:26:00-05:00

I was a brand new Butter Bar at Ft. Sill in 1991. As I was walking into Snow Hall there was a crusty old W4 was coming out. He fired off a salute and I literally turned around to see what General was behind me.

Response by CW2 Lee Dike made Jan 2 at 2020 9:42 AM

2020-01-02T09:42:19-05:00

I was a freshly minted wo1 right out of flight school, stopped to see my brother in basic training on my way home. 1st sgt of his company escorted me to the mess hall where he was on KP. As we entered he yelled "Attention" and I braced the wall at attention. 1sgt turned and glared at me, "No not you Sir" !!
Every time I think of this I get a laugh.

Response by SSG Richard Dixon made Jan 2 at 2020 9:44 AM

2020-01-02T09:44:40-05:00

One morning I walked out of the mess hall and lit a cigarette. As soon as I lit the cigarette a full bird colonel appeared out of nowhere. I immediately saluted then realized I had the cigarette in my salute hand. He approached me and asked "Who is your first Sergeant?" I told him, but never heard anything more about it.

Response by CPL Dan Lemon made Jan 2 at 2020 10:14 AM

2020-01-02T10:14:51-05:00

As I was going through intelligence training, I was standing with a salute during colors. Next thing I knew, I had spots of white all over my uniform. Apparently, a flock of sea gulls flew over head and decided to drop.

Response by PO1 Vincent Britton made Jan 2 at 2020 10:16 AM

2020-01-02T10:16:15-05:00

While serving as a Company Commander at Great Lakes I remember while training my new recruits to salute. Had them at attention in front of their racks, Commanded a "Hand salute!" which they performed as expected but when I commanded "Ready, two!" one young man raised his left hand to a salute. I had a trouble holding back my laughter yet thought to myself, hey guess that makes since to some one new to the military.

Response by Sgt Gail Hardy made Jan 2 at 2020 11:13 AM

2020-01-02T11:13:17-05:00

In Air Force Basic Training we had to stand retreat, and the TIs were adamant that we "dress right" on the person at the end of the row (to keep the row from bowing). When we got in formation my entire line bowed. Did I "dress right" on them or do as I'd been instructed and "dress right" on the person at the far end of the row? I did the latter. Our TI asked why I wasn't in line with the others and I told her I did as I was told and "dressed right" on the end of the row. That was the end of the discussion.

Response by Cpl Mel Monroe made Jan 2 at 2020 11:16 AM

2020-01-02T11:16:24-05:00

In Vietnam you don't salute much as it identifies the officers for the snipers. Towards the end of my tour we were pulling out and getting shuffled around. I found myself standing guard at a gate. I had my weapon slung over my right shoulder when a colonel and his driver came through the gate. I saluted with my left hand, thought about it for a moment, changed my weapon to my other shoulder and saluted with my right hand. The colonel looked and me a few moments and then asked. "Are you done Marine?"

Response by Sgt Jeff Hiers made Jan 2 at 2020 11:20 AM

2020-01-02T11:20:11-05:00

When I first arrived in Vietnam I tried to get Hiers to salute me, but he simply wouldn't do it, mustering at most a "Howdy, Lieutenant, how's it hanging" as we passed. For every time that he didn't salute I told him he would have to fill a hundred sandbags.

We'd reached several thousand sandbags when Hiers took me aside and said "Look, Lieutenant, I'll be happy to salute you, really. But if I get in the habit back here in the rear I may salute you when we're out in the bush. And those gooks are just waiting for us to salute, tell 'em who the lieutenant is. You'd be the first one blown away." We forgot the sandbags and the salutes. Months later, when Hiers left the platoon to go home, he turned to me as I stood on our hilltop position, and gave me the smartest salute I'd ever seen. I shot him the finger, and that was the last I saw of him for fifteen years.
Bill Broyles Vietnam 69-70

Response by Sgt Jeff Hiers made Jan 2 at 2020 11:22 AM

2020-01-02T11:22:13-05:00

Response by Sgt Eddie Gonzalez made Jan 2 at 2020 11:39 AM

2020-01-02T11:39:24-05:00

While in Marine Corps boot camp a fellow recruit and I were sent to early chow at Zero Dark 30 with instructions to double time. As we rounded the corner to the chow hall entrance we noticed a Captain exiting the building. While in full running stride we simultaneously launched ourselves into a flying posture of attention, snapped a salute in mid - air, and shouted "Good Morning, Sir!" as we flew by him. The moment our boots hit the deck we heard the Captain respond, " I don't stinkin' think so! Get back here and try this again!" Second time through we kept ourselves grounded and gave a respectable and worthy salute.

Response by LCDR Bradley Norwood made Jan 2 at 2020 11:52 AM

2020-01-02T11:52:02-05:00

Even though I was a brand-new Ensign attending Naval Nuclear Power School in Orlando Florida (1983), I wasn't a novice regarding uniforms and seasonal changes. However, I remember one particular Friday morning walking into the NPS complex, I was returning salutes to quite a few enlisted folks who were noticeably happier than normal, many laughing and grinning as we passed each other.

I got up to the 2nd deck, where my class was located, but in the hallway noticed one of my VMI classmates whose class was usually downstairs. I said "Steve, what are you doing up on MY deck??" Very quickly, he responded with "What are *you* doing wearing a khaki cover with dress whites?!?"

I had changed my insignia & nametags over to the whites (we wore whites on Friday), but in the rush to get out the door I grabbed my cover without thinking (or looking) at it, and it was still decked out in Thursday's khaki. That sure explained the grins on all those sailor's faces. Yet another notch in the 'brand new Ensigns can be so stupid' trope....

Response by 1st Lt Donna Gates made Jan 2 at 2020 12:06 PM

2020-01-02T12:06:58-05:00

I had just joined the Air Force as a 2nd Lt Registered Nurse and was in my orientation class at Wichita Falls, TX. After we got our first uniforms we were told we had to give a dollar to the first person that saluted us. I passed a young airman and he saluted me. I nearly scared him to death chasing him down to give him my dollar.

Response by PO2 Mark Fournival made Jan 2 at 2020 12:22 PM

2020-01-02T12:22:15-05:00

US Navy:
I had completed boot camp at Camp Nimitz, San Diego and was at the airport ready to fly home on leave. Every time a commercial airline pilot passed me in the terminal, I would stop and salute him/her due to the gold band on their hats. Took me a while to correct the habit.

Response by SSgt Holt Davis made Jan 2 at 2020 12:44 PM

2020-01-02T12:44:33-05:00

While stationed at Shemya AFB, AK, my squadron commander was an ex-enlisted member who had received his commission. In casual meetings many of us would give him a left handed salute to which he returned a left handed salute. I met the captain in one of the hallways with the customary left handed salute which he returned. Little did I notice that a second lieutenant was following. That lieutenant looked like an owl with his head spinning between the captain and me.

Response by Sgt Warren Serkin made Jan 2 at 2020 12:50 PM

2020-01-02T12:50:49-05:00

Was walking over to the base dispensary while in Basic Training in San Antonio and saw an officer loading stuff into the trunk of his car. Not sure what to do, I saluted him and he returned the salute while still bending over with his head in the trunk.

Response by SPC Rick Taylor made Jan 2 at 2020 1:25 PM

2020-01-02T13:25:22-05:00

When I was in basic training at Ft Leanardwood I was a road guard while we were marching. I was blocking a street and a Budweiser truck pulled up and I gave it a rifle salute. My drill instructor did not like that

Response by LCpl Dara Folks made Jan 2 at 2020 1:39 PM

2020-01-02T13:39:30-05:00

I was working at the Naval Annex as PVT (right out of school) in the USMC promotion board dept. There are not very many PVTs working in that facility . Every day I got saluted. I even had someone come up to me and tell me I forgot my brass.

Response by Col Dennis Killian made Jan 2 at 2020 2:40 PM

2020-01-02T14:40:29-05:00

Col Dennis Killian USAF, Ret:
As a 2Lt working at HQ TAC (now ACC), I was exiting the building smoking my pipe. As I rounded the corner of the building I ran directly into the Colonel who ran the Computer Organization. I quickly gave him a snappy salute not realizing my pipe was in my mouth. He quickly responded that "Even
though I gave him a good salute that only POPEYE should be allowed to do that." I did not think it was funny at the time. But it was a quick reaction from the very Senior Colonel.

Response by MAJ Christopher Thompson made Jan 2 at 2020 3:02 PM

2020-01-02T15:02:31-05:00

In my earliest days as an USACE officer around 1990, I was approached by a newly direct commissioned medical officer. He was a full colonel (a speciality surgeon), and I was a second lieutenant, so obviously I was prepared to salute immediately as we passed. Unfortunately, the Colonel was wearing his rank upside down on his patrol cap, and decided to salute with his LEFT hand. I had to correct him, as it was obvious that it was not a joke, and no one had explain the basics of military regulations. He thanked me and laughed. He had only been in the US Army a single week...

Response by A1C Denise Merlet made Jan 2 at 2020 3:03 PM

2020-01-02T15:03:53-05:00

In 1974, I was in Air Force ROTC in my senior year in high school. One morning we were getting ready to leave class and were expected to salute before doing so. When I saluted I put my right hand up to my brow and at the same time I put my left hand on my hip. The class erupted in laughter and I was so embarrassed. I finally lived it down when I graduated. I was afraid I might do that again in the real Air Force, but I never did it again.

Response by Sgt Gary Dickhaut made Jan 2 at 2020 3:41 PM

2020-01-02T15:41:25-05:00

Just out of boot camp and Memphis electronics we were at MCAS Beaufort, walking up to Chow Hall and a 1st Lt walked out the door right at us. We wanted to turn there other way but whipped up good solid salutes, goods afternoon sir. His reply, "how's it going guys" while giving us the peace sign. This want how they said it would be. We still laugh about it 49 years later.

Response by SP5 James Baudier made Jan 2 at 2020 3:51 PM

2020-01-02T15:51:21-05:00

Salute
At basic (-70, Ft. Leonard Wood) weekend liberty, three or four of us trainees were walking back to the barracks. We say three young officers coming our direction so I suggested to the others with me that we all in unison salute with our left hand. After passing, the young officers we noticed they were quite confused over what had just happened.

Response by Sgt James McConnell made Jan 2 at 2020 3:55 PM

2020-01-02T15:55:15-05:00

Me and my buddy were walking to chow, Bien Hoa VN. We had to cross this open field. We passed this “90 daywonder “ lieutenant, A newbie in country? He stopped us and said “airman don’t you know you salute an officer when you see one? I replied yes sir, but in a war zone if we salute you, you will be the first one to get shot! He kind of stammered and said
“Carry on” we saluted him and went on to chow! He didn’t get shot!

Response by CPT Robert Vick made Jan 2 at 2020 3:57 PM

2020-01-02T15:57:52-05:00

I was riding with a friend to my friend to our first duty station at Ft Gordon GA as brand new 2nd lieutenants. The soldier at the entrance gate reviewed our orders, stepped back and smartly saluted. My friend promptly returned the salute --- with his left hand.

Response by SFC Morrie Hanson made Jan 2 at 2020 4:09 PM

2020-01-02T16:09:51-05:00

My funniest story is driving onto Fort Leavenworth and having the Specialist snap to attention and giving me a Salute. I drove a Crown Victoria and since I am a Civil War Re-enactor I had the Bonnie Blue Flag Sticker on my car. The Specialist seen the Sticker that is Blue Background with White Star and thought it was a Generals Sticker which is just the opposite. Generals Sticker is White Background with Blue Star

Response by SFC Tommie Johnson made Jan 2 at 2020 4:10 PM

2020-01-02T16:10:20-05:00

I was stationed TDY at Ft. Bragg, NC as a Medic from Walter Reed we move around post uncovered and pay little attention to Full Bird officers because there is so many and you work with them daily. I was going into the Class. VI STORE as I passed this Full Bird Colonel. He stopped me and locked my heels and began Soldier you don't salute officer were you from and no cover what's your unit. I left the store no Liquor or Beer just glad to get away from this guy

Response by LTC Dud Fagan made Jan 2 at 2020 4:20 PM

2020-01-02T16:20:50-05:00

While stationed in Schweinfurt Germany with the 3rd Bn 7th Air Defense - we were co-located on the Kaserne with 3rd Bn 7th Cav of Gary Owen fame. Their troops saluted all officers with the remark of "Gary Owen, Sir!". We new Air Defense Lieutenants searched long and wide for a suitable response and came up with our own reply of "Herman Nelson!" (the manufacturer of a maintenance tent heater). This drove the Cav troops wild guessing at who was old Herman Nelson.

Response by PVT Gary Betz made Jan 2 at 2020 4:42 PM

2020-01-02T16:42:52-05:00

I was walking down the boardwalk in Vietnam when the captain stepped in front of me and stop me and ask me don't you salute I told him that there was an AR out saying enlisted personnel shouldn't salute officers because VC snipers would shoot them and I saluted him he said be alert and walked away

Response by SPC Roy Anderson made Jan 2 at 2020 7:34 PM

2020-01-02T19:34:22-05:00

At Ft. Polk in the early 1980s, all traffic stopped when retreat sounded. Those outside would stand, face the “music” and salute. Since my buddy and I were riding in the back of a pickup, we stood up in the truck’s bed and saluted.

Response by SPC Roy Anderson made Jan 2 at 2020 7:40 PM

2020-01-02T19:40:12-05:00

I was stationed at Aberdeen Proving Grounds for AIT in 1980. At the base movie theater we would all stand and salute when the national anthem played before the movie. We all—the whole theater—would “tsh!” loudly with each cymbal crash. It was best to have no one in the seat behind you.

Response by SSgt Dana Hall made Jan 2 at 2020 7:52 PM

2020-01-02T19:52:10-05:00

I was stationed at Yokota Air Base Japan and was returning to the aircraft hangar I worked in. I had left the Base Operations Center cafeteria. It was approximately 300 yards to the hangar and I seen someone walking toward me from a parked aircraft on the ramp. As he got closer I seen stripes on both his sleeves. Then to my demise I seen a pair of Major insignia's on his lapel. Being at an Air Force Base and not to many Army personnel around I had no idea what his rank was. The stripes and Major insignia really had me confused. As we got closer I saluted him with a puzzled look on my face and he started laughing and told me a salute was not required. He then told me he was an Army Sargent Major. I told him "I don't know whether to salute you are just greet him with a hello". We both had a good laugh after. I then steered him to the cafeteria for some lunch.

Response by PO3 Gregory Hott made Jan 2 at 2020 8:08 PM

2020-01-02T20:08:07-05:00

While a NAVY RECRUIT in bootcamp SAN DIEGO (1972) we spent a day at the BALBOA HOSPITAL for some reason I do not remember. Well there were MARINE boots there too and I recieved my fisrt and only salutes from some MARINE RECRUITS! Which proves that MARINE RECRUITS will salute anything in uniform.

Response by COL Vincent Contreras made Jan 2 at 2020 9:46 PM

2020-01-02T21:46:04-05:00

Army: When I graduated from Basic and we were departing for our first duty station our platoon sergeant gave use this advice: "If it moves salute it, if it doesn't paint it!"

Response by SGT Michael Q made Jan 2 at 2020 10:21 PM

2020-01-02T22:21:17-05:00

I was working as the Training and Operations NCO at my last unit located on Fort Belvoir. Everyone else was out of the office for lunch and I was just relaxing while reading some news articles. Then I heard this strange clanging before a newly assigned soldier wearing a combination of medieval chain and plate mail armor armed with a pike and double-edged long sword (sheathed) approached my desk. He snapped to attention, saluted, handed me his orders. He stated “I am reporting for duty sir! Is thou who will keepith record of my humble attendance and service!?”
I replied “In a manner of speaking yes. However, you do know that this year’s ‘full battle rattle’ is BDUs, LBE, and K-pot?” He said “With all due respect sir! That would be out of character on this day!” I said “Ok Lancelot…” He interjected “Sir! I am not Lancelot, I am Lord Galgamire!” I said “My apologies Lord Galgamire. However, we are on duty and your orders indicate your name is Specialist Heber.” He replied “Sir! Are you ordering me to be out of character!?” I said “For your sake, I suppose I am. You have about 15 minutes before the commander and first sergeant return and I am willing to forget this interaction occurred.”
He said “Dost thou know I made this armor myself!? Would your Lords not be impressed by my skilled craftsmanship?!”
My response “I’m not sure impressed is the word I would use Specialist Heber. My advice to you is to get out of here now and report back in this century’s uniform before they confiscate your weapons and armor and lock you in the hospital or brig.” He said “Your counsel is most wise! I shall depart immediately!”
He came back about 45 minutes later in the uniform prescribed on the training calendar and introduced him to the commander and first sergeant without informing them of what had occurred. A few months later he was kicked out of the ‘School’ for failing grades. Apparently, he would rush through the tests and often sat in the back of the room reading Dungeon Master Guide books. The school NCO then suggested that I knew something was amiss with him. I smiled and said “Well, people deserve a second chance every now and then.” He said, “Fair enough” and we parted ways.

Response by SPC Kenneth Bowles made Jan 2 at 2020 11:04 PM

2020-01-02T23:04:04-05:00

Didn't happen to me, but I was with this fellow as we were returning to our barracks from the PX in Germany. This fellow had a lot of things in his hands which he finally got moved to his left hand to send a salute to a Captain. After he saluted, the Captain called back, "Not with a cigar in your mouth soldier." The one thing he forgot.

Response by AA Michel Erlandsen made Jan 3 at 2020 12:11 AM

2020-01-03T00:11:19-05:00

Best salute story ever.
There were to Boot Camp Officers that were known as Muff and Jeff. They would walk around wanting us enlisted personal to salute them like always, regardless where ever we were.
One day my buds and I were out ion the town. and we saw Muff and Jeff walking towards us so to avoid them we walked across the street. Well that was a mistake they called us over and gave us a big chewing out. They said the KNEW why we crossed the street and how disrespectful it is to avoid their superiors, and on and on they went.
Well the next day Our ship was leaving for Vietnam. The ship was the USS Ranger (air craft carrier) for those who did not know. Anyway there were hundreds of us crew members on the flight deck as the Carrier was going under the Golden Gate Bridge in San Fransisco. The wind was blowing so hard that just about everyone was leaning into the wind and the wind would keep you from falling. I'm talking about 15 degrees or more you could lean into it.
So my two friends and I saw Muff and Jeff leaning into the wind and they were just giggling a way like to school girls. Yep that's what we did we walked up in front of them and saluted, and naturally the three of us locked the wind. To bad cell phones were not around at that time. The expression on Muff and Jeffs faces when they both looked at each other as the were falling was priceless. I bet they were seeing their fall in slow motion. Needles to say None Skid on a flight deck dose not feel good at all.Their hands went out to stop falling on there faces, and their Knees buckled up to where their khakis ripped in the knees. JUST TO FUNNY.
Well of course they were none stop on chewing us out. Felt like for ever, but we were cracking up so hard. Just happened that the XO was walking by, and he also was having a blast on the Flight Deck. Muff and Jeff stopped the XO and started their BLAH BLAH BLAH. XO said he will take care of the situation. So XO pulled us to the side and once Muff and Jeff were out of sight the XO could not stop laughing. He said he saw what we did to those two CLOWNS as he called them. The XO said he just had to walk by so he could here what the two CLOWNS were crying about.
Well after that day hardly none of us and others were bothered by Muff and Jeff and about a month later they were never seen again. We think the XO transferred them to another ship or shore duty. Acording to other officers they were just a pain in the ass to whom ever was around them. One of these situations where you just have to be there.

Response by SrA John Kidwell made Jan 3 at 2020 3:01 AM

2020-01-03T03:01:33-05:00

Sr Airman John Kidwell
I was in a tech school in the Air Force at Biloxi Mississippi in the late 70's. I was prior service (Navy) so I did not live with the recruit students and did not have to march to and from school to my barracks, so I rode a 10 speed bike. I was riding by the wing headquarters after class one day when a full bird Colonel, and a Lt Colonel come out the front door of the building. I was riding my bike, and was not required to salute under those circumstances, but I let go of the handle bars, turned toward the officers, snapped to attention, and produced my best parade ground salute. I didn't even smile. I regained my handle bars and didn't look back until I rounded the next corner. When I glanced back, Both the Colonel and the Lt Colonel were laughing, and the colonel had dropped his briefcase.

Response by SSG Jon Laird made Jan 3 at 2020 9:18 AM

2020-01-03T09:18:06-05:00

In late 68 I was attending the NCO Candidate Course in Ft Knox. At the time, we were required to salute passing cars that bore the blue base sticker denoting an officer. All the new LT's drove sports cars or muscle cars with stick shifts and they had been drilled just as hard as we had about saluting or returning salutes. The results were frequently hilarious as they over-revved the car while trying to return salutes from every passing enlisted man, even though it wasn't required while driving.

Response by PO1 Shawn Davis made Jan 3 at 2020 9:22 AM

2020-01-03T09:22:46-05:00

Walking from my car to the uniform shop, approaching a pilot leaving the shop, I smartly salute him. As he returned his salute, I quickly realized I left my cover in the car!

Response by Sgt Frank Johnson made Jan 3 at 2020 9:39 AM

2020-01-03T09:39:18-05:00

Hi all, I was in basic training in Lackland Airforce base and I was walking somewhere and the 5 o'clock sound went off and I had to turn and salute the flag. At the same time a bus had to stop and it was full of new recruits. The bus stopped right in front of me and all of the guys in the bus were staring at me the whole time that I was saluting and taps was playing.

Response by SSgt Jc Hopkins made Jan 3 at 2020 10:21 AM

2020-01-03T10:21:02-05:00

A young Marines tried to avoid saluting an officer. The officer instructed him to salute him 100 consecutive times. This officer was known for this. A higher ranking officer saw this from his office and came out to assess the situation. He first corrected the young Marine and gave them both a period of instructions about saluting. He basically said it was sign of respect from both parties, so he instructed the officer to render a salute everytime the young Marine had to salute. The officer didn't want to salute so he cut that punishment short

Response by SGT Karen Colon made Jan 3 at 2020 10:52 AM

2020-01-03T10:52:58-05:00

I did my basic training at Ft. Jackson, SC. We were standing outside waiting to get into the mess hall as retreat started. We all came to attention and saluted. I realized that my hat was on crooked and reached up with my left hand to adjust it. Unbeknownst to me one of my drill sergeants was standing behind me and saw what I did. I had to stand in front of everyone and say to a Palm Tree, "I will not adjust my hat while retreat is playing for 100 times." How embarrassing!

Response by CDR Tony Kendrick made Jan 3 at 2020 11:06 AM

2020-01-03T11:06:53-05:00

I was very proud of my salute, ram rod straight from elbow to fingertip to barely touching the brim of my hat and my shoulder to elbow was perfectly parallel to the ground. Because of my above average height and arm length of 38-inches, a poorly rendered salute would be more noticeable so I practiced a lot. As a young medical corpsman at the 93rd Evac Hospital in Vietnam in 1970, I was walking the covered outdoor walkway between medical units. In those days smoking was very prevalent and every other supporting post had a butt-can (half full of water hanging from a nail, and, usually, two days worth of cigarette butts). The can was high enough on the pole to use it but not look into its unsanitary cargo. This day I didn't realize the group walking toward me was the Commanding Officer escorting a visiting General until it was almost too late to salute. I quickly nervously but still expertly executed my salute and they returned it as we passed one another - my elbow hit the, for me, the shoulder height butt-can and knocked it off the pole. It came crashing down and erupted in a vertical spray of cigarette butts and dark dirty water. This mini Old-Faithful geyser barely missed the two officers as they didn't break stride but I believe I heard a slight chuckle. Cleaning up the mess was not pleasant but it would have been much worse if I had embarrassed my Commanding Officer!

Response by SGT Joseph Richey made Jan 3 at 2020 2:24 PM

2020-01-03T14:24:19-05:00

While serving in Vietnam I was in crypto voice security unit in Saigon. Every morning we had to change the keying material in all the crypto units so all senior military officers could communicate with the President as well as all other officers and other leaders attached to the war effort. One morning I was in General Westmorland's office, I had been there many times and noticed he had 4 or 5 caps with 4 stars as well as his airborn insignia on his desk. This morning I decided to try on one of his caps with the 4 stars on it. As I was opening the safe containing the crypto material I heard a noise and I looked up to find the General watching me. I came to attention and saluted him. He returned the salute and said "stick with it son and you just might make it. As I apologized he just laughed and said have a good day son.

Response by PO1 Gerald Nichols made Jan 3 at 2020 3:33 PM

2020-01-03T15:33:09-05:00

In Jan 1973 I was about six weeks into boot camp at the USCG training center, Cape May, NJ. President Truman died in St. Louis, MS. Since we all had short hair cuts and already knew how to march, they flew our company out to St. Louis, MS. on a C -130 to represent the Coast Guard in his funeral. All branches of the military were lined up in front of seven 3" cannons about 100 yards behind us as we were saluting for the ceremony. Apparently not many of the troops from any branch of service were familiar with the military funeral procedure. When the first volley went off from the seven cannons behind us several hats went flying(including mine). Fortunately that was not the picture that showed up in News Week magazine two weeks later. A week after we got back to Cape May president Johnson died. That funeral was in Washington. We were ready for it. Coasties learn quickly!
Respectfully:
Gerald A. Nichols DC (MST1)
USCG 11/26/72-03/31/77

Response by 1LT Robert Stevenson made Jan 3 at 2020 4:09 PM

2020-01-03T16:09:01-05:00

I was drafted in 1960 just after receiving an MBA in Finance and Accounting, so naturally after completing Basic I was sent to 2nd-8-weeks training as a Clerk/Typists rather than going to Finance school. I then shipped out to Korea (post cease-fire, fortunately) for duty as Company Clerk for a forward Missile company near the DMZ. While walking across the Pacific (on guard duty on a troop ship) my orders were changed and I was shipped to Seoul to be a clerk in the 8th Army AG office, which was fine with me. However, in a "welcome aboard" visit with the 1st SGT I mentioned my degree and H immediately got my orders changed so I became an auditor in the 8th Army Controller's, thereby finally getting me to where I could make use of my education. The "salute" part of this tale came about because I often went out to field locations with Sgt. Sam (the guy I worked for), riding shotgun in
a staff sedan which he drove because I did not have an Army driver's license. Sam soon began telling people I was the most-saluted private in the Army because when soldiers along the road saw a guy with no stripes being driven in a sedan driven a Sgt. First Class they automatically protected themselves by saluting (and, when we were in 7th Cav. territory, also loudly shouting "Gary Owen, Sir".)

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 3 at 2020 5:59 PM

2020-01-03T17:59:57-05:00

I was a junior Chaplain in a group of personnel newly assigned to the Garrison Chapel. There was even a new secretary, so we were all learning the ins and outs of the building. One lunchtime, we decided to figure out what a mysterious cabinet in the main office area held. We pried the door open and figured out that it was an electronic bell system. I sent one of the Soldiers outside to listen if it would work while we put in a CD and started one of the tracks. The parking lot outside was also for a Child Development Center and Bowling Alley, so very busy that lunchtime. We looked out the window to see all activity stopped and everyone in the lot confusingly saluting toward our office. Turns out we had put on the National Anthem!

Response by LCpl Michael Young made Jan 3 at 2020 6:17 PM

2020-01-03T18:17:52-05:00

Back, many years ago now, I was in my high school Navy JROTC program and back in those days we were flown on military aircraft and this time we went to Norfolk Navy Base as one of our trips. At this time, again-many years ago now, I was a cadet Ensign so I had a butter bar on one side of my collar and the JROTC on the opposite.
We were visiting a PX on base and I came walking out and ran into a young (well, older than me) Seaman rushing into the PX. He saw the gold bar and the gold on the cover and shot the quickest scarred salute I have ever seen! I saluted back and continued on but it was freaking hilarious and a source of terrific stories, like here.

Response by SFC Janice Flowers made Jan 4 at 2020 3:28 PM

2020-01-04T15:28:20-05:00

Mine was when I was in AIT and I was walking down the side walk. I see the Company Commander and one of my Drill SGT's approaching me at the same time. All of a sudden I start thinking what do I do...do I salute or go to parade rest. I was overthinking but had a decision to make and make it fast. I thought Drill SGT certainly has more power than the Commander, I mean they are constantly around. So I said at ease and assumed the parade rest position. Needless to say my Drill SGT was like are you serious PVT??? You gonna disrespect my Commander like that!!! My Drill SGT tell me to Get down and he apologizes to the Commander. The story spread like wild-fire and any Drill SGT I came in contact with would tell me Get Down and proceed to tell me how screwed up I was.

Response by PO3 Javier Escudero made Jan 4 at 2020 7:18 PM

2020-01-04T19:18:18-05:00

According to US Navy uniform regulations, Navy personnel assigned to Marine Corps units may
wear USMC uniforms, which was my case. In Iraq, I was saluted first by an army soldier.
He looked like he was fresh out of training, like me. Was he an officer? I saluted him back anyways. Other day, I get saluted again. But why? I was a bit worried about
I realized that they confused my E-2 collar insignia for that of an O-3 officer!

Response by SGT Kenneth Richards made Jan 5 at 2020 1:25 AM

2020-01-05T01:25:02-05:00

I had groceries in my right arm when I rounded the cornor and the Chaplin appeared. I gave him a nice left handed salute and he never said anything just saluted
back.

Response by CPL Ed Thacher made Jan 5 at 2020 5:08 PM

2020-01-05T17:08:24-05:00

Mine was not a salute, but rather a chow hall blunder. First morning of basic at Ft. Ord we were to identify as RA, US, ER, etc. followed by a "sir.". I sang out "US.". The DI shouted at the top of his lungs "US WHAT!!". As my brain raced for anything I sang out "US Army?". He went just about nuts as I slunk away.

Response by PO2 Arthur Pereida made Jan 5 at 2020 8:53 PM

2020-01-05T20:53:37-05:00

1968 and my ship, USS Braine DD 630 was tied up at the end of the pier, behind the USS Constellation in San Diego. As my buddie and were walking down the pier, I noticed a most beautiful girl with hazel green eye, about 5"4", really pretty. Unfortunately I failed to notice the scrambled eggs on the brim of her cap and the LTCMDR collar insignia. As we passed next to her my buddy saluted but I didn't, I was to busy admiring her beauty. "Sailor!", catching my attention, "Don't you salute an Officer of the United States Navy?". I snapped to attention and saluted. She came up to me just under my chin and said "So, what's your excuse sailor for not saluting an officer?" By this time an audience had gathered and was watching from the carrier lower decks. "I have no excuse Mam . . . I mean Sir . . Sir Mam!" and saluted again and held it waiting for her acknowledgement. "What is your excuse Sailor!", at a higher tone of voice. "Sir . . .Mam, I have no excuse" and I said the only thing that was on my mind and said to her, "You have beautiful eyes, Sir . . Mam, Sir". My knees were shaking, my buddy next to me didn't know weather to laugh or start running. "Well, at least your honest". Returned my salute. Smiled. "Be on your way and don't let this happen again, sailor". "Yes Mam, Sir". As we started walking the crowd just above us were laughing. And I was shaking and my buddy was just laughing. I will never forget this. I was a "boot", E3 at the time.

Response by SP5 Arnold Fuller made Jan 5 at 2020 11:16 PM

2020-01-05T23:16:58-05:00

I was at Ft Eustis, VA in Turbine engine school. Our training officer, a new 2nd Lt took us down a wrong street, and as such we were late for class. He carried a riding quirt that he slapped his pant leg to keep time. We were double timing to the correct location when the Post Commander approached in his car, and the 2 Lt saluated him with his left hand while double timing. The Commander stopped, had us stop while he chewed out the 2 Lt for a while. When we finally got to class, every one there knew about it. His nickname for the rest of our schooling was Lt Lefty.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2020 8:26 AM

2020-01-06T08:26:35-05:00

When I was in basic, I was walking alone to go pick up my glasses. I came across a group of Airmen and as I approached, one of them called the group to attention, and they saluted me - I was an Airman Basic. I then saluted them back as I was laughing inside.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2020 6:02 PM

2020-01-06T18:02:30-05:00

A friend told me this story so I can’t take credit for it, but it was too funny not to share. Two Marines, with one of them Marine having his arm in a cast, were walking when an officer began walking toward them. Without hesitation, his buddy saluted smartly while ensuring that he saluted as well. He extended a salute with his left hand and touched the brim of his cover...flawlessly. It happened as if they had been in the barracks all night practicing until they had it down perfect.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2020 1:36 PM

2020-01-07T13:36:37-05:00

I was getting groceries at the commissary and had both hands full. I set my stuff down to put on my cover right before the threshold and picked up my groceries. I continued on for about 15 seconds when a Captain got out of his car and walked straight towards me. I was doomed to do one of two things. Either I set my stuff down or I take another path. Instead of either of those I panicked and quickly dropped my groceries in my LEFT hand and saluted. The captain saluted back and nonchalantly had a conversation with me. He did not realized I saluted with the wrong hand. On top of all of this my glass jars I just bought were now in pieces at my feet. I had to go back into the store to by more jars. Upon paying for my stuff the same Captain was also checking out. I overheard the conversation of him laughing saying "Some Dumb%$$ SrA just saluted me with his left hand and broke his groceries." He then proceeds to look back and have eye contact with me. This by far is the most awkward moment I have ever had in my military career. The sad thing is we stared at each other for 20 seconds saying nothing but also saying so much at the same time.

Response by A1C Robert Duncan made Jan 7 at 2020 3:24 PM

2020-01-07T15:24:26-05:00

US AIR FORCE
IN BELGIUM I HAD LEFT MY UMBRELLA IN THE CHOW-HALL. TURNING BACK TOWARD THE CHOW-HALL I SAW A MAJOR WITH AN UMBRELLA AND APPROACHED HIM ASKING IF IT WAS OK IF I SEE HE HAD THE RIGHT ONE BECAUSE I LEFT MINE AT THE CHOW-HALL WHERE HE'D JUST COME FROM. HE SAID NO I'M SURE THIS IS MINE..AND DON'T WE SALUTE OFFICERS ANYMORE?
FEELING LIKE A COMPLETE IDIOT I STEPPED BACK RENDERED MY SALUTE AND APOLOGIZED PROFUSELY. FORTUNATELY HE WAS AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN DID'NT REPORT MY AIRMAN BUTT.

Response by MSgt Curtis Jamison made Jan 9 at 2020 2:59 PM

2020-01-09T14:59:05-05:00

MSgt Curtis Jamison (retired)
As a young Airman, we were taught, "when in doubt, whip it out"...meaning you should salute if you weren't sure you had to or not. Well at tech school, we saw a captain riding a bike, hold the handle bars with his right hand and books under his left arm. We weren't sure if we should salute, so we did. Out of instinct, he returned salute, turning loose the handle bars and veering off into some shrubs. We probably wouldn't have gotten into trouble if we could have stopped laughing so hard.

Response by CPL Daniel Lotito made Jan 10 at 2020 12:06 PM

2020-01-10T12:06:53-05:00

So one day I was preparing for a training exercise and I’m on the howitzer trouble shooting a radio. I start hearing someone talking behind me asking me if I knew what I was doing, I had no idea who it was just didn’t think anything of it, I replied with “ of course I know what I’m doing the army doesn’t pay me this poorly for no reason”. Come to find out it was MG banister. I quickly stood up and saluted with a radio in my hand and the mic attached to my uniform. Honestly he was pretty cool about it, but sure as hell shocked me.

Response by SGT Milberth Brannam made Jan 10 at 2020 3:38 PM

2020-01-10T15:38:22-05:00

We were advised to salute officers wherever we saw them ,and give salvation.one cold morning in zgetmany I spited one all the way across the parade field. Using my best Tennessee yelling voice I shouted “Good morning,sir!”And saluted. he looked A good minute before he spotted me gave ne s quick salute and walked off into the fog.

Response by A1C John Pirtle made Jan 12 at 2020 1:17 AM

2020-01-12T01:17:35-05:00

Just out of basic training I was walking toward the Orderly Room in Lackland AFB when a very pretty and well indowed waf walked by. She turned and stopped me and ask if I learned how to salute. She was a new 2nd lt, Worst butt chewing I received in the four years of service.

Response by CPL Dixon Galbreath made Jan 14 at 2020 10:48 PM

2020-01-14T22:48:33-05:00

In the early part of basic training in 1965 at Fort Leanord Wood, MO another private and I were caring a large trash can by the handles heading for the dumpster. A staff car with officers in it drove by. We felt we should salute even though carrying the trash can. The person on the right rendered a normal right handed salute. I had my right hand on the trash can handle so I rendered a left hand rifle salute. The officers in the jeep returned our salutes but we could see them laughing....

Response by 1stLt William Hunter made Jan 15 at 2020 1:36 PM

2020-01-15T13:36:00-05:00

Approaching Base HQ as the commanding general's aide-de-camp one morning I returned the salute of the general's driver, a sergeant and former USMC drill instructor, with a crisp left-handed salute. Later that day in the office he respectfully noted to me that there seemed to be "something unusual" about my salute that morning.
1st Lt. Bill Hunter, USMC 083392

Response by SPC Stanley Jose made Jan 16 at 2020 11:10 AM

2020-01-16T11:10:39-05:00

While stationed at a "Tri-Service base in New Mexico in the late 1950s, one had to be careful about saluting as there were officers from all services plus foreign officers. I once saluted the Base Fire Chief.

Response by Sgt Alex Leibowitz made Jan 17 at 2020 3:59 PM

2020-01-17T15:59:39-05:00

When I was in Tech School at Chanute AFB there was a way for some NCOs to make extra money. They would enter a barracks at night and yell, "Pizza Pop". If you were hungry you could indulge. There was also a ritual for us (on rotation) to stand Barracks Guard. You would sit by the door and "protect" the barracks. OK, now one night the Captain in charge of our squardron entered out barracks in civies. When he walk in in the PM the Cap asked the guard (who had no idea who he was) "what are you supposed to do when I enter the building?" The student thought and thought and finally stood up and yelled (you got it) PizzaPop. The Cap laughed and walked out. He introduced himself to all of us the next morning when we fell out.

Response by SPC Bert McCall made Jan 28 at 2020 8:37 PM

2020-01-28T20:37:38-05:00

In 1967 I was a Spec4 assigned to the 520th Medical Co. (Clearing) at Ft. Sam Houston, Texas. Not far from our barracks was the training area where new medical officers, like doctors and nurses, were trained. They were always nervous about having to salute, especially the new nurses. We were constantly encountering them on the street, and depending on how nervous they looked when they saw us coming, we would have some fun. As we drew to saluting distance we would do a flench of our shoulder, but hold the salute, and many times they would salute us first and then we could return their salute. Later, back at our barracks, we would walk in and announce, "Hey, an officer saluted me today."

Response by Sgt Thomas Cassida made Jan 30 at 2020 1:33 PM

2020-01-30T13:33:45-05:00

When I was in the Marines, we were in a naval intelligence photography school in San Diego next to NTC when it was there. We had to wear Charlies (khaki shirts) to the school each day and we all had gold jump wings. As we were driving around, the road guards would come to attention and salute us (we were enlisted) before returning to their platoons because they thought we were pilots but they would get such a weird look on their face because of the conflicting info - our red sticker vs. our khaki shirts with wings - before the saluted!

Response by SP5 Melinda Dunworth made Feb 9 at 2020 4:24 PM

2020-02-09T16:24:30-05:00

I got in trouble while I was in basic training , I got caught with snack cakes in my locker during inspection,
Anyhow I knew I was SOL and had to see the commander to be reprimanded for having contraband , has I nervously approached his office I had to knock three times which I did and saluted to introduce myself I couldn't understand why he wasn't acknowledging instead he kept telling me to go out his office and retry again, although I was nervous I got so frustrated and since I knew I was in trouble anyway , I finally said loudly " Just Get this Done already in a matter of fact way ". Instead of the commander getting Mad he finally said Soldier why are you saluting me with your left hand !!!!!
I felt so stupid .....

Response by SGT Ralph Flickinger made Feb 27 at 2020 12:42 PM

2020-02-27T12:42:46-05:00

The day I graduated from basic (E-3-3 Fort Dix) I was assigned to OJT at B-3-3 Fort Dix. I met the CO and he threw his keys to me and asked me to do errand. I pulled out and a fellow from my training saluted the car (has officers sticker), I waved back and enjoyed his look when he figured out he saluted a fellow private.

Response by MAJ Geiter Dunn made Apr 1 at 2020 6:15 PM

2020-04-01T18:15:16-04:00

Watching LTs argue over whether 2LTs had to salute 1LTs.

Response by SPC John Decker made Apr 1 at 2020 6:20 PM

2020-04-01T18:20:02-04:00

I was in Basic when they changed from the O.D. green fatigues to the first generation BDU's. Subdued rank, for Major, disappears into the pattern. 6 steps? haha. 1. He pushed and I wound up in the Base commanders office. No punishment. 3 months later, word came down, "No subdued rank on BDU's".

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2020 6:29 PM

2020-04-01T18:29:53-04:00

I was at Camp MacGregor for PreMob and walking back to the barracks from the DFAC with my buddy (a SPC, I was a PFC) when two PV2s walked passed us and saluted my my friend. He and I looked at each other and laughed while the other PV2 yelled at his buddy for saluting a Specialist. We laughed about that encounter during the rest of Pre Mob and the entire deployment.

Response by MSG Robert Corriveau made Apr 2 at 2020 9:06 AM

2020-04-02T09:06:58-04:00

Graduation day in Basic Training I had just picked up my duffel bag full of civies from supply and was headed back to the barracks, rounded a corner and bam a 2nd Lt I threw up my salute, as soon as I did I knew I had screwed up. He stopped me and asked what my problem was. I had saluted with my left hand because my duffel was in my right and it was an instant knee jerk reaction to seeing him in my face! LOL He snickered and made the correction and let go!

Response by SMSgt John Miller made Apr 21 at 2020 10:31 AM

2020-04-21T10:31:34-04:00

I was on a remote island on a off-book civilian clothes assignment when I received a DV-7, inbound message. I was an E-5 and didn't know that the DV-7 called for a red carpet and a band. I went to the civilian airport dressed in shorts, pull over shirt and sandals to meet an inbound C-135. The aircraft landed and wow it was spit shined and immaculate. I had flight line access and was standing at the base of the ramp when a four star pushed the door open, he was in a custom Air Force Blue flight suit with a white dress bib. He looked very surprised when I popped to and saluted. He stepped down to face me and returned my salute. He addressed me by name and rank and asked where are your personnel and equipment? My reply was that I was it, his next question was what training had I received to be the Air Force Military Airlift Command Ground Representative, my answer was none. He had been briefed that we were a major Pacific stop over and was not happy about the situation. He then took me to lunch and offered me a job in Hawaii to help straighten out problems with small South Pacific MAC stops. As I already had orders for Hurlburt and my family was in Florida I politely turned the offer down. The look on the Generals face when he looked for the red carpet and band and saw a very casually dressed person in civilian clothes was priceless!

Response by HN Brian Cullinore made May 21 at 2020 7:56 PM

2020-05-21T19:56:22-04:00

0US Navy. My ship was at the Long Beach Naval Shipyard prior to a Wespac. I was on a break when I walked past a full Commander, without saluting him. He said "Good morning" and then he stopped me. He said "Don't you salute officers, sailor"? I came to attention and saluted him. I said "I be your pardon, Sir. I meant no disrespect to your or your rank" He said "Very well. Carry on". I said " Aye aye, Sir" and took off. He must have accepted my apology because that was the last that I heard about it.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2020 11:26 AM

2020-07-19T11:26:48-04:00

As s 2LT in BOLC I saw another 2LT holding his coffee in his right hand as we walked to class. I recommend he switch hands and he blew me off.

No sooner did that happen he failed to salute a USMC Captain, and was given additional training to augment my recommendation.

I carried onto class

Response by PFC Alan Moore made Dec 17 at 2020 2:48 PM

2020-12-17T14:48:39-05:00

When we went from olive drab fatigues to camo BDUs I didn't notice that my hat had a vertical black stripe front and center. People started saluting me and I had no idea. At first I thought that there was an officer walking behind me. One NCO got upset when he realized that he just saluted a private, (PFC).

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 14 at 2021 2:51 AM

2021-01-14T02:51:01-05:00

That one time in Iraq when I saluted not my buddy's M-4, or his helmet, or his dog tags during his memorial service because my buddy's M-4, helmet, and dog tags were destroyed when an RPG obliterated his head leaving just a stump below his jawline.

So funny, ETADIK.

Response by Sgt Jerry Poole made Dec 30 at 2021 2:21 PM

2021-12-30T14:21:45-05:00

It has been about 55 years since this happened so I will do my best to remember details. We, about a dozen E-1's, were on a work detail and we see a 1st Lt, our squadron commander and the First Sgt walking towards us. We quickly designated one Airman to salute them. The Air Force manual says if you are on a work detail, only one person will salute. As they get closer, we all come to attention and the designated Airman salutes. The First Sgt. screams at us "You better salute the Officer." We were shaking in our tracks, thinking "did we misread the manual?" We all salute and the Officer returned the salute. Did we do right or wrong when everybody saluted?