Military Customs Analysis

SPC DaBrent Nobles

Military Customs and Courtesies

I am a soldier of the United States Army, and when I took the vow to become such, I signed up to uphold a certain standard when in public and behind closed doors. I have the upmost respect for my peers and superiors around me who took the same vow. We all vowed to be away from our families for unknown amounts of time to protect and defend my country and its allies. I also have pride in what I do because I know it is necessary to keep my country running. The army has helped me to establish this pride in myself and what I do. The Soldier’s Guide states, “A reflection of that pride is visible in the customs, courtesies, and traditions the Army holds” (p. 179). All soldiers abide by the same rules

Customs can also be things to avoid or things to not speak of. In section 4-3 of The Soldier’s Guide it states, “Many Army customs compliment procedures required by military courtesy, while others add to the graciousness of garrison life” (p.180). When a soldier breaks some of the guidelines set out in the different handbooks and pamphlets, they are seen in the wrong manner. To most NCOs, these same soldiers are seen as “ignorant, careless, or ill bred”, and they should have been taught better (p.180). The violation of some guidelines is unacceptable, and will result in punishment that ranges from less severe to extremely severe and require immediate action. Some of the common law customs that are known are stated in The Soldier’s Guidelines as

The senior soldier present in the group will be the person in charge of making sure the junior soldiers are doing the right thing. That senior soldier will first call “Attention”, and once the soldiers are in this position, that same soldier will call “Parade, Rest”. Once these calls are made, the soldiers in formation will have done these commands at the first note of “Retreat”. All of the formalities that go in to showing respect to the flag while in uniform are slightly different out of uniform. The Soldier’s Guidelines state that, “ When in civilian clothing, the only change is to place your right hand over your heart instead of saluting. Vehicles in motion should stop. If you are in a car or on a motorcycle, dismount and salute” (p. 185). As a member of the United States Army, a soldier will do the things necessary to show respect to his or her