military salute is a sign of respect, and is not something to take lightly. Here are some guidelines for saluting, according to AFMAN 36-2203, section 3.6 EXCHANGE OF SALUTES.

 

The junior member always initiates a salute, and does so in time for the senior person to return the salute. When returning or rendering the salute, turn your melon and your peepers in the direction of the person (or flag) you’re saluting. Don’t be admiring the clouds when you’re saluting the colonel as he walks by.

 

Some say that you are supposed to salute exactly six paces from a superior officer. The book says, “To prescribe an exact distance for all circumstances is not practical, but good judgment indicates when salutes should be exchanged

 

Saluting is to take place outdoors. The only time you should be saluting inside is during formal reporting. What do I mean by “outdoors?” Well, AFMAN 36-2203 actually cites some circumstances that might be confused for “indoors.” Porches, covered sidewalks, bus stops, covered or open entryways, and reviewing stands are all considered outdoors and fair territory for the military salute to be seen.

 

If a superior is carrying articles in both hands, he or she need not return the salute. Doing so may cause a concussion, or at the very least, knock of the headgear. The Air Force discontinued the practice of saluting while carrying articles in both hands when the dry cleaning bills for military headgear when through the roof. Data on the concussions sustained are inconclusive at best. If you’re the junior guy and you’re carrying a box of glass vases, you need not send them crashing to the ground to render a salute to the general. You should simply render a friendly verbal greeting. “Howdy, General,” or, “Dude, check out these cool vases,” are probably NOT good. Try something along the lines of, “Good morning Sir,”

 

If you’re in formation, don’t salute unless given the command to do so. If you’re in a group, but not in formation, the rules are slightly different. When a senior officer approaches, the first person noticing the officer will call the group to attention. ALL MEMBERS face the officer and salute. If the officer addresses an individual in the group, all should remain at attention unless otherwise directed. The entire group will salute when the officer leaves. 3.6.4 of the code!

 

At a public gathering such as a sporting event, large meeting, etc. or when a salute would be inappropriate or impractical, salutes between individuals need not be exchanged. If you find yourself in a work detail, individual workers do not salute. The person in charge salutes for the whole detail. You might be carrying supplies at encampment, or pitching a GP Medium… don’t worry about the salute. This is a work detail.

 

quote 3.6.10. “Any airman, NCO, or officer recognizing a need to salute or a need to return one may do so anywhere at any time.” What does this mean? “When in doubt, salute.”