Which service has the best salute?

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 00:32:30 -0500

Those who have served anywhere has probably saluted or been saluted by people from other services. I have noticed that some are more crisp than others. Based on your experiences of which service has the best salute?

Response by COL Charles Williams made Feb 7 at 2017 12:36 AM

COL Charles Williams — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 00:36:35 -0500

Army... Hands down... Of course I have empirical data to prove that... So, it is a personal opinion.

Response by SFC George Smith made Feb 7 at 2017 12:51 AM

SFC George Smith — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 00:51:07 -0500

last time i Checked all 5 Branches for the US military were ... Supposed to be the same... Did I miss something ...
its Not Like the British salute...

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Feb 7 at 2017 1:13 AM

CAPT Kevin B. — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 01:13:36 -0500

I'd love to say Navy, but our beloved Marines are uniformly most consistent with that perfect snap. Could always see the pride in it.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Feb 7 at 2017 1:29 AM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 01:29:49 -0500

Too subjective...we ALL do...

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Feb 7 at 2017 6:27 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 06:27:33 -0500

All have equally good salutes.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Feb 7 at 2017 7:22 AM

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 07:22:33 -0500

Marines, hands down, but then they're Marines.

Response by PO1 Brian Austin made Feb 7 at 2017 5:54 PM

PO1 Brian Austin — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 17:54:46 -0500

I'd say depends on the individual. I've seen some pretty sloppy salutes as well as good, crisp salutes. As a whole though i'd say the Marines, the most consistent.

I have to give some honorable mention to Canadian Army. My final duty station we had six Canadians there on the PEP. They seriously popped doing their facing movements and good crisp hand salutes.

Response by PO1 John Johnson made Feb 8 at 2017 6:54 AM

PO1 John Johnson — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 06:54:47 -0500

If the salute is properly executed, you can't tell which service the salute-er is in without looking at the uniform.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2017 7:25 AM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 07:25:50 -0500

At boot camp, our uniforms are fitted and udergo a final fitting. It's almost impossible to salute and your "snap" causes your arm to quiver in place because it's so tight. and once learned, it becomes "muscle memory" the arm automatically knows where to go with each different cover they issue. It's also (or at least they use to) hold a "period of instruction" on saluting and the Heaven forbid if you saluted incorrectly. I've seen Marine Officers stop Marines and ask them to do it again correctly. It's part of the uniform, its a Pride thing not just some "custom and courtesy" "Some of the worse (if I may be so bold as to mention it) are Air Force. The hand is thrown up towards the general area of the head. It's not the salute that is the problem, it's the acceptance by the officer receiving it.

Response by 1LT James Teener made Feb 8 at 2017 10:26 AM

1LT James Teener — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 10:26:24 -0500

I would say that the best tend to be at the USMA, West Point. One can almost see the arm vibrate from the snap of the salute. It's not just the cadets, either, because faculty, staff, and support do not want to present a bad example. The other service academies are good, as is Parris Island, but there ain't nothin' like West Point.

Response by CWO4 Steven Strehle made Feb 8 at 2017 11:34 AM

CWO4 Steven Strehle — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 11:34:54 -0500

As a Coast Guard retired CWO4 I have gone onto every base in the Puget Sound. By far the best salutes are from the Marines when they are on the gate at Sub Base Bangor. Semper Fi Marines, your salutes for an old Coastie are great, rendered with pride.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2017 12:24 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 12:24:15 -0500

It is not a question of the service, but that of the individual rendering the salute. I witnessed sloppy salutes from all branches and ranks and sharp ones from them as well.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2017 12:26 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 12:26:23 -0500

Army hands down and I got the pictures to prove it. Lets examine the 3rd Soldier from left to right that looks like he is using his hand to cover his eyes from the sun, and of course the infamous middle of the patrol cap salute, you need at least one of those per day.

Response by MSgt Ronnie Kelly made Feb 8 at 2017 1:48 PM

MSgt Ronnie Kelly — Wed, 08 Feb 2017 13:48:54 -0500

I think is more of an individual thing, I have seen salutes from all branches and services. There was some so-so, some good, some great from all. To me it was a personal thing and I am strong believer in lead by example.

Response by TSgt Tommy Amparano made Feb 9 at 2017 11:16 AM

TSgt Tommy Amparano — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 11:16:10 -0500

I am not responding with a branch. I will just say that I have see good and bad salutes in all branches.

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Feb 9 at 2017 12:58 PM

SFC Joseph Weber — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 12:58:53 -0500

You left out Delta Tau Chi.

Response by TSgt Bruce Davis made Feb 9 at 2017 1:17 PM

TSgt Bruce Davis — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 13:17:36 -0500

I've served in the Marine Corps, Navy, and Air Force, and have Deployed with the Army, I have to agree with many of the other comments on here...it's not the service, it's the individual.

Response by Cpl Terry Fowler made May 31 at 2017 3:22 AM

Cpl Terry Fowler — Wed, 31 May 2017 03:22:14 -0400

There is pride in the marine corps salute. But I'm sure that all of our branches have a certain way to salute. I think the Marine go the extra step to make it snappy

Response by SPC Thomas McChristian made Jun 9 at 2017 12:13 PM

SPC Thomas McChristian — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 12:13:34 -0400

Best I remember was the Marine Corp, worst was Air Force

Response by MSG Robert Greco made Jun 9 at 2017 1:48 PM

MSG Robert Greco — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 13:48:25 -0400

I think I was an E7, may have been E6. I was in the PX parking lot, heading in. An O6 Navy Officer was on my path. within 5 paces I saluted and said "Afternoon Colonial", he returned salute but, I noticed in the corner of my eye he stopped.

So, I stopoed and turned around and said "Sorry Sir, meant CPT! Don't get to many Navy Folks on a Army Base" He smiled, laughed and said "I guess you wouldn't".

Response by Cpl Elijah Gordon made Jun 9 at 2017 4:13 PM

Cpl Elijah Gordon — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 16:13:06 -0400

Marines...just because every Marine cringes when they see other branches salute and have had our fingers and arms "corrected" for not doing it right. I'm not turning this into a "Marines are best, ra ra" argument, but saluting is one thing that is specifically refined in the Marines.

Response by SPC Kc Beck made Jun 9 at 2017 4:20 PM

SPC Kc Beck — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 16:20:57 -0400

There you have it, the branch that spends all day saluting and jacking off to them selves in the mirror is best at something other than coloring outside the lines! Lol

Response by SPC David Schuler made Jun 9 at 2017 4:34 PM

SPC David Schuler — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 16:34:26 -0400

I would say the Marines even though I was Army. I can't imagine a Marine rendering a sloppy salute. Striking one's breast with a closed fist and shouting "Hail Caesar" is probably frowned upon. I once saluted a 2LT while he was downshifting his MGB in order to turn a corner. Yet I was still awarded the Good Conduct Medal.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Jun 9 at 2017 4:51 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 16:51:47 -0400

Damn It to Hell Gumby! My Father was a Marine, They Render a Pretty Good Salute. I also spent some time with Washington's Own at Ft Myers watching the Tomb Guard. Toss of the Coin to Me. Most are Great Right Out of Boot Camp, After that it is Debatable.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2017 5:31 PM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 17:31:50 -0400

In basic we saluted everything, our DI's, Officers, Tree's Squirels... just to name a few.

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Jun 9 at 2017 5:36 PM

Capt Mark Strobl — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 17:36:41 -0400

LTC Private RallyPoint Member - Oh... you pot-stirrer! (I voted "Marines," by the way.)

Response by SGT Philip Roncari made Jun 9 at 2017 6:46 PM

SGT Philip Roncari — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 18:46:06 -0400

I would say Marines,that being said why do most civilians have no idea that it is respectful to honor the National Anthem and the Flag at public events,I've too old and foolish now,but I would really like to straighten out some of these dirt bags,who knows I still might !

Response by LCpl Aaron Freeman made Jun 9 at 2017 6:46 PM

LCpl Aaron Freeman — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 18:46:48 -0400

I've seen other branches salute... the Air Force salutes like they're looking for someone. The Army does it like they're flipping someone off. The Navy does it close to how we do it, and we just do it with elan, and panache... ooh rah!

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2017 6:51 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 18:51:26 -0400

army all the way baby

Response by SGT Danny Strzyzewski made Jun 9 at 2017 7:58 PM

SGT Danny Strzyzewski — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 19:58:40 -0400

Hate to say it...but Marines. They were awarded a crayon with proper salutes in training. Became a learned behavior with the reward.

Response by SPC(P) Cody Patterson made Jun 9 at 2017 8:08 PM

SPC(P) Cody Patterson — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 20:08:57 -0400

The Old Guard!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2017 8:16 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 20:16:22 -0400

I would say Navy and marines with Army at a close second. I have been in the Navy and now in the Army. I have to say Navy does teach the proper salute well (what else are you going to do out to sea.) lol aside run drills get little sleep stand watch station do your job oh and qualify. Army eat sleep blow stuff up do your job repeate

Response by PO1 Gregory Smith made Jun 9 at 2017 10:51 PM

PO1 Gregory Smith — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 22:51:31 -0400

Saying it's not the branch, but the individual is a cop out taken to not admit the obvious. Yes, I too, have seen poor salutes across the board. Just as I have seen great salutes across the board.

Reality is... Marines take much more pride in these things than other branches. It is trained and engrained from day one. Therefore on a much greater scale you are more likely to see a great salute from a Marine. And conversely more likely to see a poor salute from anyone that did not attend "boot camp" aka commissioned officers...

Response by Capt Dwayne Conyers made Jun 9 at 2017 11:52 PM

Capt Dwayne Conyers — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 23:52:50 -0400

My hat off to my brothers and sisters in the USMC

Response by LtCol George Carlson made Jun 10 at 2017 2:08 AM

LtCol George Carlson — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 02:08:49 -0400

Those who have responded that they have seen both sharp and sloppy salutes from all are correct, as far as that statement goes. I am prejudiced, but I honestly think the Marines make a bigger point of training and insisting on sharp salutes than the other branches. On the other hand, back about 1980, when my wife was stationed at Treasure Island, the "rent-a-cop" gate guards issued salutes that made this Marine proud. I suspect there was a Marine imbedded somewhere in that organization.

Response by LCpl Marx Andrzejewski made Jun 10 at 2017 9:14 AM

LCpl Marx Andrzejewski — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 09:14:19 -0400

You're damn right!

Response by SGT Robert Encinio made Jun 10 at 2017 10:22 AM

SGT Robert Encinio — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 10:22:00 -0400

As an armed forces, we are all tought the basic salute and what that standard should be. However amongst the branches Drill Teams, the Marines are hands down more meticulous in the teaching and performance of rendering the hand salute.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Jun 10 at 2017 12:21 PM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 12:21:29 -0400

In My opinion, the Marines tend to have the sharpest and proper salute. I see some salutes in the modern Military otherwise that that often make Me wounder just what they teach. i had learned to salute in a Military Academy where that had been properly taught and upon working gates etc in the Military had had many senior Officers, Colonels and even Generals stop to comment on how sharp My salute was. We took a lot of pride in a proper salute and Military bearing. Squared away uniforms, salute, and proper hand signals to direct traffic though entry point to the installation was part of Military Police duties for the Air Force, Army and Marines and created a proper display of respect and professionalism.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2017 12:33 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 12:33:23 -0400

I think it depends on the soldier, but I agree with most. Marines seem to the crisp snap.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2017 5:55 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 17:55:15 -0400

Yes it is suppose to be the same in all branches and being Drill Sergeant in the Army I wish I could say the Army has the best . But the Marines instill pride in there Marines that the other branches just don't.

Response by GySgt Jc Hernandez made Jun 10 at 2017 6:54 PM

GySgt Jc Hernandez — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 18:54:25 -0400

Marine Corps

Response by PO1 Christian Berry made Jun 10 at 2017 7:01 PM

PO1 Christian Berry — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 19:01:01 -0400

Coast Guard is sharp naturally as there customs and courtesies are based off of marine core

Response by LTJG Nicolas Di Leonardo made Jun 10 at 2017 7:43 PM

LTJG Nicolas Di Leonardo — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 19:43:11 -0400

Air Force scores higher than Navy?! They salute like crossing guards.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2017 9:34 PM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 21:34:24 -0400

Someone told me that every branch doesnt solute the exact same way. Im saying it true but im not saying its false. But it all comes down to the individual.

Response by Sherry Wyatt made Jun 10 at 2017 9:59 PM

Sherry Wyatt — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 21:59:23 -0400

Army

Response by Tommy Siemer made Jun 10 at 2017 10:37 PM

Tommy Siemer — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 22:37:58 -0400

Marines

Response by LCpl Darren Wilkens made Jun 10 at 2017 11:00 PM

LCpl Darren Wilkens — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 23:00:53 -0400

Marine Corps

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2017 12:26 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 00:26:47 -0400

The Boy Scouts for sure. The three finger thing allows you to "read between the lines" as needed.

Response by LCpl Daniel Dow made Jun 11 at 2017 3:51 AM

LCpl Daniel Dow — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 03:51:58 -0400

Hard Corps

Response by LCpl Jeff Vinyard made Jun 11 at 2017 8:32 AM

LCpl Jeff Vinyard — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 08:32:16 -0400

The Marine Corps

Response by SGT Ross Jones made Jun 11 at 2017 4:24 PM

SGT Ross Jones — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 16:24:41 -0400

I served in both the Marine Corps and Army and the Marine Corps wins hands down. Twenty years later I would hear in my head the instructions of the proper salute that I learned at Parris Island.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2017 7:04 PM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 19:04:31 -0400

Marine Corps

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2017 10:56 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 22:56:49 -0400

Lol, as a Former Marine, I have no comment

Response by CPL Jason Hughes made Jun 11 at 2017 11:34 PM

CPL Jason Hughes — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 23:34:58 -0400

Wow. I would have thought it was the Army Specialist rank that does the best salute. Especially when they mean it as a veiled sign of disrespect.

Response by PO1 Ronald Breitwieser made Jun 12 at 2017 12:20 AM

PO1 Ronald Breitwieser — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 00:20:04 -0400

Marines are part of the Navy.

Response by CPO Robert (Mac) McGovern made Jun 12 at 2017 11:54 AM

CPO Robert (Mac) McGovern — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 11:54:57 -0400

I think any salute by any member delivered with pride, respect, and professionalism is a damn good salute and at that time, whatever the service, that is the best salute.

Response by Cpl Scott Noble made Jun 12 at 2017 2:28 PM

Cpl Scott Noble — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 14:28:24 -0400

While the salute is supposed to look the same through all services, what makes the Marine salute better is the snap of the arm and hand. Not to be bashing other services, but some are lazy getting that hand up.

Response by Sgt Dale Beard made Jun 12 at 2017 3:27 PM

Sgt Dale Beard — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 15:27:25 -0400

Marines

Response by Cpl Rob Petty made Jun 12 at 2017 5:35 PM

Cpl Rob Petty — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 17:35:23 -0400

USMC, without a doubt.

Response by Cpl Rick Dillon made Jun 12 at 2017 5:54 PM

Cpl Rick Dillon — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 17:54:21 -0400

Marine Corps

Response by Cpl Dan A. made Jun 12 at 2017 6:09 PM

Cpl Dan A. — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 18:09:53 -0400

Really? We all know deep down the USMC literally will beat the most professional of salutes into recruits at Paris Island, amongst many other things. If you really don't believe that because you're in another branch you are lying to yourself.

Response by Pvt Charles Philbert made Jun 12 at 2017 7:08 PM

Pvt Charles Philbert — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 19:08:15 -0400

Semper fi and i knew it would be

Response by PO2 Michael Sayre made Jun 12 at 2017 7:27 PM

PO2 Michael Sayre — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 19:27:32 -0400

It's okay; you can say that you wished you joined the Marine Corps; we won't hold it against you.

We will; however, continue to point out to you that you did not in fact serve in the best branch of the military, that of course being the Marine Corps.

I speak from experience; having been an active duty Marine; mobilized National Guard Soldier, and college Navy reservist.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Jun 12 at 2017 7:28 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 19:28:42 -0400

It's not the service, it's the service member who makes or takes pride in their salute.

Response by Cpl Al Mora made Jun 12 at 2017 11:28 PM

Cpl Al Mora — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 23:28:57 -0400

USMC

Response by LCpl David Bryan made Jun 13 at 2017 1:31 AM

LCpl David Bryan — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 01:31:36 -0400

Marines

Response by Cpl Spencer Knoop made Jun 13 at 2017 4:36 AM

Cpl Spencer Knoop — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 04:36:57 -0400

Marine Corps

Response by SSgt Fred Beach made Jun 13 at 2017 4:56 PM

SSgt Fred Beach — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 16:56:35 -0400

Because this matters SOOOO much

Response by SGT Ricky Winchester made Jun 13 at 2017 7:17 PM

SGT Ricky Winchester — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 19:17:33 -0400

Marines

Response by SGT Gabriel Brown made Jun 13 at 2017 11:18 PM

SGT Gabriel Brown — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 23:18:31 -0400

Been in both the Marine Corps Infantry as well as the army infantry, and O taught funeral honors for the army as well. I was amazed at how few soldiers knew how to properly salute, or even do basic d&c movements.

Response by MAJ Meliton Arriola made Jun 14 at 2017 9:39 AM

MAJ Meliton Arriola — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 09:39:41 -0400

Army

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 14 at 2017 10:21 AM

1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 10:21:00 -0400

According to the photo, the airman is most correct with his salute. The soldier's arm is too high, the Marine's wrist is crooked, and the sailor's hand is canted slightly downward.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 14 at 2017 12:42 PM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 12:42:46 -0400

Marine Corps

Response by SPC Travis Hughes made Jun 14 at 2017 2:10 PM

SPC Travis Hughes — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 14:10:51 -0400

Army

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 14 at 2017 4:47 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 16:47:53 -0400

I was unaware that salutes varied in the different services. But as a former Marine and currently in the Army, I can tell you that generally speaking Marines perform drill and ceremony better than anyone else.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 14 at 2017 5:35 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 17:35:07 -0400

Army

Response by Sgt Alfred Saenz made Jun 14 at 2017 7:08 PM

Sgt Alfred Saenz — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 19:08:26 -0400

USMC

Response by Cpl Mike Larson made Jun 14 at 2017 7:22 PM

Cpl Mike Larson — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 19:22:20 -0400

Marines

Response by PO2 Buddy Stewart made Jun 14 at 2017 9:40 PM

PO2 Buddy Stewart — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 21:40:19 -0400

I'd have to say Marines. But I do think I took a certain amount of pride in rendering a pretty snappy salute myself. Hey if I'm gonna do it, I might as well make it look good. It always seemed to be appreciated too. On the ship though, you didn't really salute that often underway.

Response by SFC Jerry Wallace made Jun 14 at 2017 10:09 PM

SFC Jerry Wallace — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 22:09:47 -0400

17 years in with two branches and I have to vote marines. And I was never a marine.

Response by PO3 Mike Mullins made Jun 14 at 2017 11:15 PM

PO3 Mike Mullins — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 23:15:41 -0400

Marine Corp

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2017 2:17 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 02:17:00 -0400

I love watching movies. How many times has Tom Cruise or some other idiot saluted wrong in a movie. It is not that hard to get it.

Response by LCDR Michael Gyduska made Jun 15 at 2017 6:00 AM

LCDR Michael Gyduska — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 06:00:11 -0400

Navy

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Jun 15 at 2017 6:46 AM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 06:46:12 -0400

Pretty sure there's only one standard on this one....

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2017 12:11 PM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 12:11:00 -0400

Lmao I've seen marines salute. So I don't think so

Response by Sgt Michael DeMers made Jun 15 at 2017 12:20 PM

Sgt Michael DeMers — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 12:20:10 -0400

Marine Corps

Response by SSG Ralph Watkins made Jun 15 at 2017 1:53 PM

SSG Ralph Watkins — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 13:53:07 -0400

I was Army who served with the Marines in Iraq. The Marines are smarter with their salutes. You don't salute in a combat zone. Period. Got down to the Green Zone & we had to salute everything that moved with an Army uniform. We still had bombers & snipers make it into the GZ/IZ. Our own Army officers over came that compulsion to have us enlisted salute them over there. Even the Navy folks learned from the Marines that served with them. Nope, not the Army, they had to play garrison no matter where they were. I guess Army officers like being targets.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2017 2:45 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 14:45:57 -0400

Army

Response by SCPO William Akin made Jun 15 at 2017 3:01 PM

SCPO William Akin — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 15:01:05 -0400

Marines.. No contest!!!

Response by SGT James York made Jun 15 at 2017 9:20 PM

SGT James York — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 21:20:58 -0400

Army

Response by Cpl David Brown made Jun 15 at 2017 10:44 PM

Cpl David Brown — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 22:44:23 -0400

Totally agree. Semper Fi.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2017 10:53 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 22:53:07 -0400

i wish i could say my fellow Air Force members could be at the top. . . but i just know that they are for the most part a lot of them are just sloppy.. .

Response by CWO4 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2017 12:28 AM

CWO4 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 00:28:10 -0400

There is no doubt, that when you want to display the epitome of drill excellence (or you want something destroyed), you call upon the Marines. But the rest of the survey is a popularity contest, with no scientific basis. Little do most of you know, the Coast Guard uses the Marine Corps Drill and Ceremony Manual. After all, why not learn from the best! Can the same be said of the other services?

Response by Kevin Liu made Jun 16 at 2017 12:35 AM

Kevin Liu — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 00:35:29 -0400

Marine Corps

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2017 10:12 AM

Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 10:12:39 -0400

NAVY

Response by SPC Matthew Hart made Jun 16 at 2017 11:25 AM

SPC Matthew Hart — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 11:25:25 -0400

Who let the coast guard in here? :p

Response by LCpl Folsom White made Jun 16 at 2017 1:12 PM

LCpl Folsom White — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 13:12:08 -0400

Our platoon was rushed through three days of receiving barracks at MCRD San Diego. The afternoon we were turned over to our drill instructors, I'll never forget the first salute our Sr. DI Ssgt TL Peay rendered to the company commander. It was like his arm was spring loaded, swift and precise, upper arm parallel to the deck, elbow to finger tip straight as an arrow. I spent my entire enlistment trying to emulate that salute. I doubt I came close.

Response by LCpl Ryan Eggers made Jun 16 at 2017 1:15 PM

LCpl Ryan Eggers — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 13:15:46 -0400

Navy beats air Force. Marines have best salute period.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2017 1:36 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 13:36:46 -0400

Marine corps for sure, the army, as a whole, needs to step up there pride game and be more proud of what we do.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2017 3:14 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 15:14:03 -0400

Air Force

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2017 3:24 PM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 15:24:11 -0400

Marines

Response by SN Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2017 3:45 PM

SN Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 15:45:54 -0400

Navy

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2017 4:46 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 16:46:22 -0400

I was hoping the coast guard didn't beat us

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2017 4:46 PM

A1C Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 16:46:38 -0400

Depends on the service member I know some airmen who have crisp salutes and I know marines who like doofy from scary movie

Response by AN Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2017 6:14 PM

AN Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 18:14:55 -0400

Navy

Response by Sgt Robert Rodkey made Jun 16 at 2017 7:28 PM

Sgt Robert Rodkey — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 19:28:51 -0400

Air Force

Response by Cpl Charles Bradshaw made Jun 16 at 2017 11:09 PM

Cpl Charles Bradshaw — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 23:09:03 -0400

MARINES

Response by LCpl Jerry Salley made Jun 17 at 2017 12:05 AM

LCpl Jerry Salley — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 00:05:01 -0400

Marines are the best at everything

Response by PO3 Anthony Ariss-Kirk made Jun 17 at 2017 1:52 AM

PO3 Anthony Ariss-Kirk — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 01:52:02 -0400

Navy

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2017 5:10 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 05:10:31 -0400

Marines

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2017 8:14 AM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 08:14:45 -0400

Shouldn't have even bothered looking

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2017 9:26 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 09:26:27 -0400

Army

Response by Cpl Roger Belz made Jun 17 at 2017 9:39 AM

Cpl Roger Belz — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 09:39:59 -0400

Do you have to even ask? USMC of course. Semper Fi.

Response by SN Alan Kohler made Jun 17 at 2017 11:08 AM

SN Alan Kohler — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 11:08:44 -0400

Navy

Response by SPC P Noelle made Jun 17 at 2017 12:35 PM

SPC P Noelle — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 12:35:46 -0400

I would have to say the Marines has the best salute. it also has to do with the person saluting and their discipline.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2017 1:53 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 13:53:29 -0400

Marines

Response by Sgt Joseph Tittelfitz made Jun 17 at 2017 1:55 PM

Sgt Joseph Tittelfitz — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 13:55:52 -0400

Silly question- without a doubt the Marines

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2017 3:56 PM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 15:56:03 -0400

Is the Marine in the photo even saluting correctly? Hmm aside from that. I'd say it depends on the individual and MOS.

Response by Sgt Jason Shaw made Jun 17 at 2017 6:24 PM

Sgt Jason Shaw — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 18:24:50 -0400

I'd say the Marine Corps has this one, although this picture doesn't show it. She's got that goose-neck thing going on. That soldier in the pic has the best salute here. Nice sharp edges, straight wrist...

Response by SP6 Vinson Eason made Jun 17 at 2017 7:53 PM

SP6 Vinson Eason — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 19:53:22 -0400

While the officers of all branches have unique salutes, I think the NCO Corp have the more crisp salutes.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2017 9:16 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 21:16:33 -0400

Army

Response by CPL Justin Brown made Jun 17 at 2017 9:58 PM

CPL Justin Brown — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 21:58:28 -0400

Army

Response by AB Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2017 10:16 PM

AB Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 22:16:36 -0400

I am AirForce so I kinda am a little bit on the AirForce side of this! Lol

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2017 12:08 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 00:08:46 -0400

U.S Marines

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2017 12:22 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 00:22:37 -0400

Army

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2017 1:09 AM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 01:09:43 -0400

Marines

Response by Sgt Rick Easley made Jun 18 at 2017 1:49 AM

Sgt Rick Easley — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 01:49:39 -0400

Air force

Response by LCpl Jack Ploof made Jun 18 at 2017 4:31 AM

LCpl Jack Ploof — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 04:31:15 -0400

Marines

Response by Tammy Bass made Jun 18 at 2017 8:25 AM

Tammy Bass — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 08:25:14 -0400

Marine Corps

Response by LCpl Tonya Bardsley made Jun 18 at 2017 10:07 AM

LCpl Tonya Bardsley — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 10:07:08 -0400

Semper Fi!!

Response by SA James Campbell made Jun 18 at 2017 10:17 AM

SA James Campbell — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 10:17:58 -0400

I can't personally say. I have seen and performed many different salutes. The salute is a sign of respect. If done with full respect it will always be sharp and correct.

Response by Cpl Shane Yeager made Jun 18 at 2017 11:22 AM

Cpl Shane Yeager — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 11:22:39 -0400

USMC

Response by PFC Paigelynn CrumesterKid made Jun 18 at 2017 12:53 PM

PFC Paigelynn CrumesterKid — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 12:53:45 -0400

Marines!

Response by SSgt Steve Wageley made Jun 18 at 2017 2:43 PM

SSgt Steve Wageley — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 14:43:23 -0400

US Marine Corps

Response by Cameron Corbett made Jun 18 at 2017 3:46 PM

Cameron Corbett — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 15:46:22 -0400

Marine Corps

Response by SPC Clark Baggett made Jun 18 at 2017 7:20 PM

SPC Clark Baggett — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 19:20:11 -0400

Army

Response by Cpl David Linnert made Jun 18 at 2017 8:22 PM

Cpl David Linnert — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 20:22:37 -0400

Sorry service members of other branches, but it's the Marines, hands down. I, being a former Marine... Ooh-rah!!! Used to practice my salute in the mirror, just to make sure I was rendering the proper salute to those Marines who had earned the salute! I always took a lot of pride in my salute, as did other Marines I knew. It's a pride thing!!!

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2017 10:11 PM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 22:11:47 -0400

Marine corps

Response by PFC Alvin Baldwin made Jun 18 at 2017 11:11 PM

PFC Alvin Baldwin — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 23:11:33 -0400

Simple Marines

Response by Landon Foret made Jun 18 at 2017 11:36 PM

Landon Foret — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 23:36:19 -0400

Marines

Response by LCpl Shawn Jenks made Jun 19 at 2017 1:10 AM

LCpl Shawn Jenks — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 01:10:44 -0400

Marines

Response by SPC Bryan Cassidy made Jun 19 at 2017 6:30 AM

SPC Bryan Cassidy — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 06:30:08 -0400

Army

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2017 7:27 AM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 07:27:13 -0400

Rah?!

Response by Sgt Ed Bowers made Jun 19 at 2017 12:47 PM

Sgt Ed Bowers — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 12:47:43 -0400

Easy the United Stats Marine Corps.

Response by PFC Zach Benjamin made Jun 19 at 2017 1:21 PM

PFC Zach Benjamin — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 13:21:48 -0400

It is the United States Marine Corps hands down no questions asked

Response by Sgt Robert Cochran made Jun 19 at 2017 1:32 PM

Sgt Robert Cochran — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 13:32:37 -0400

Marines most consistent and crisp.

Response by SSgt Gary Hall II made Jun 19 at 2017 4:21 PM

SSgt Gary Hall II — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 16:21:51 -0400

OOH RAHH!!!!

Response by Emily Shook made Jun 19 at 2017 5:34 PM

Emily Shook — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 17:34:21 -0400

Navy

Response by Tristan Hartje made Jun 19 at 2017 6:43 PM

Tristan Hartje — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 18:43:36 -0400

Marines.

Response by SN Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2017 9:29 PM

SN Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 21:29:50 -0400

Marines

Response by PO3 Mickey Horn made Jun 20 at 2017 12:51 AM

PO3 Mickey Horn — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 00:51:44 -0400

Marine corps

Response by Lawrence Gonzales made Jun 20 at 2017 1:13 PM

Lawrence Gonzales — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 13:13:26 -0400

Marines

Response by Mark Lombardi made Jun 20 at 2017 3:39 PM

Mark Lombardi — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 15:39:07 -0400

Marine Corps

Response by PFC John Teahan made Jun 20 at 2017 4:38 PM

PFC John Teahan — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 16:38:55 -0400

USMC

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2017 4:46 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 16:46:09 -0400

This thread brings back a memory of my tech school at Fort Leornard Wood, MO. We had a 2LT commander and a 2LT exec. The commander was a mustang the exec a fresh out of college newbie.

The exec was spit and polish and had a very crisp military salute. The CO, when saluted, would give you a "look" then raise his hand, and lower his head until he gave a return salute. He sort of made you feel like "Please don't salute me."

Thanks for the memory.

Response by PO2 Mark Sovine made Jun 20 at 2017 8:43 PM

PO2 Mark Sovine — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 20:43:43 -0400

Marines...definitely the Jarheads

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2017 11:28 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 23:28:37 -0400

WHAT? Marines?

Response by Cpl Danielle Hopkins made Jun 20 at 2017 11:46 PM

Cpl Danielle Hopkins — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 23:46:32 -0400

Well being a Marine, I do concur that we ha e the best salute

Response by ENS Nicholas Cormier made Jun 20 at 2017 11:59 PM

ENS Nicholas Cormier — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 23:59:10 -0400

Credit where due! Not my branch but I have to agree.

Response by SSgt Kevin Mileski made Jun 21 at 2017 2:26 AM

SSgt Kevin Mileski — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 02:26:21 -0400

USMC

Response by MSgt Brian Potvin made Jun 21 at 2017 2:38 AM

MSgt Brian Potvin — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 02:38:55 -0400

It's not about any one particular branch having the best salute. It's about the individual, and the attention to detail they want to put into it.

Response by Cooper Borders made Jun 21 at 2017 6:41 AM

Cooper Borders — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 06:41:54 -0400

Marines

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 21 at 2017 7:19 AM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 07:19:41 -0400

Army hooah

Response by Sgt James Goad made Jun 21 at 2017 7:48 AM

Sgt James Goad — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 07:48:13 -0400

Marines

Response by Cpl Joe Morath made Jun 21 at 2017 11:06 AM

Cpl Joe Morath — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 11:06:24 -0400

Marines

Response by SSG Bubba Marshall made Jun 21 at 2017 4:41 PM

SSG Bubba Marshall — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 16:41:31 -0400

Army

Response by Capt Robert Mumper made Jun 21 at 2017 5:54 PM

Capt Robert Mumper — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 17:54:41 -0400

USMC

Response by Cpl Rene Davila Wolf Pack made Jun 21 at 2017 6:51 PM

Cpl Rene Davila Wolf Pack — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 18:51:14 -0400

USMC

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 22 at 2017 2:18 AM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 02:18:52 -0400

It's based on the individual in my opinion

Response by MSG Gary Billhartz made Jun 22 at 2017 5:44 AM

MSG Gary Billhartz — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 05:44:42 -0400

X Army here...but I have to say the Corps...

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 2 at 2017 1:52 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 13:52:30 -0400

Branch immaterial ... all services teach proper hand salute, how it rendered is based on the individual and the installation of the honor at indoc! I answered Army because I am army, but I have seen awesome and $h|t salutes throughout all of the branches. (I'm going to profess interservice rivalry for a moment) In the image above: The Marine has her hand cupped; the Sailor looks like he is listing port; the Airman appears to have his thumb under his hand; and my Soldier buddy has his thumb bent ... so if we want to be critical, we can be! I think it is HOOAH that we all took the oath and have the honor and privilege to render a salute to our nation's colors. (Rangers really do have the best salute!)

Response by CW3 Lysle Seelig made Aug 3 at 2017 3:43 PM

CW3 Lysle Seelig — Thu, 03 Aug 2017 15:43:52 -0400

I served in the Army but before that I went to the Marine Military Academy in Harlingen Tx. That's where I learned to salute. I remember a poster in our barracks at school of the Joint Chiefs with the caption "Which one is rendering a proper salute?" Of course the only one was the Commandant of the Marine Corps. To this day it I can't stand an improper salute.

Response by SFC Greg Bruorton made Jan 17 at 2018 7:02 PM

SFC Greg Bruorton — Wed, 17 Jan 2018 19:02:56 -0500

Any Drill Sergeant's salute would be snappy at best.

Response by Kami Hawkins made Jun 3 at 2018 2:06 AM

Kami Hawkins — Sun, 03 Jun 2018 02:06:59 -0400

Nice...

Response by LT Brad McInnis made Jul 2 at 2018 10:32 PM

LT Brad McInnis — Mon, 02 Jul 2018 22:32:52 -0400

USMC, hands down. I know that when I was saluted by a Marine, I always straightened up and made sure that I returned it just as well!

Response by SPC Stuart Oliphint made Jan 15 at 2019 4:49 PM

SPC Stuart Oliphint — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 16:49:06 -0500

Marines.At airborne school the devil dogs were obvious by their salutes.The prior-service Marines in my Guard unit were usually distinguished by their snaps.

Response by SGT Robert Paul made Nov 14 at 2019 9:57 AM

SGT Robert Paul — Thu, 14 Nov 2019 09:57:57 -0500