What is your funniest salute story?

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.

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.

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!”

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.

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!"

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.