Customs and Courtesies

Report to an officer outdoors

(1) Approach the officer and halt at the position of attention about two paces in front of the officer. (2) Render a salute. (3) Report: "Good morning Sir or Ma'am", state your rank and name, and reporting as ordered. For example: "Good morning Sir; RANK Jones reporting as ordered". (4) Hold the salute until it is returned or acknowledged. (5) When you receive the command, "dismissed", you will say "aye aye sir ", take one step back, render a salute and proper greeting, i.e., "good morning sir", then execute an about face and expeditiously leave.

Report to an officer indoors

(1) Center yourself 6" and centered at the front of the officers desk. (2) If under arms render a salute. Under arms means that you are either armed with a weapon, or are wearing a duty belt (cartridge belt). (3) Report in the same manner as outdoors. (4) When not under arms, you will follow the same procedure except you will not salute.

Special Situations

(1) Enlisted Marines may give and receive salutes from other enlisted Marines when in formation and rendering reports. (2) After a senior has been saluted, if he remains nearby and no conversation takes place, no further salutes are necessary. On the other hand, if directed to report to a senior in the same area, you should salute when reporting and again when taking your leave. (3) A Marine salutes indoors only when under arms. This normally means a duty status with a weapon. In this situation, the Marine remains covered and should salute; Marines not under arms do not salute indoors. In an office, Marines need not cease work when an officer enters unless called to attention. When addressed by an officer, the person so addressed should rise. (4) In the naval services, protocol does not call for saluting when uncovered except for the return of uncovered salutes rendered first by Army and Air Force personnel. The exception in this case follows the general rule that, "social customs or military courtesy should always be interpreted so as to prevent awkward situations. "Therefore, the naval service establishes an exception whereby an uncovered salute may be returned. When uncovered, naval officers initiate salutes by coming to a position of attention.

Addressing Marines

(1) General. Although the Marine Corps is an integral part of the naval service, its rank structure is similar to the Army. In written correspondence, both formal and social, full rank precedes the name and is written out. In conversation, all generals are General; all colonels are Colonel, etc. Full rank precedes the name of commissioned officers; customarily, rank may be abbreviated in routine correspondence of an official nature but is written out in business or social correspondence. The rank also precedes the names of warrant officers. When in civilian dress, a captain and a lieutenant are introduced as "of the Navy" to distinguish the rank from other services. In conversation, all admirals are Admiral. All chaplains are introduced by rank. (2) Addressing officers and enlisted men. (a) General. It is appropriate and strongly recommended that a person be greeted by name and grade; e.g., "Good morning, Captain Jones," or "Good evening, Corporal Clark." If you are unsure of an enlisted Marine's name or grade, "Good morning, Marine" is appropriate as is "Good morning, Sir," or "Good Morning, Ma'am" in the case of an officer. In your everyday relationships with other Marines, it is imperative that you be familiar with the common courtesies extended to officers and enlisted Marines. (b) Addressing Officers. Use "Sir" or "Ma'am" whenever addressing officers more senior; however, if acquainted with the officer, it is preferable to use both grade and name; e.g., "Good afternoon Colonel Sands." Whenever addressing a general officer, it is customary to use "General" in lieu of "Sir" or "Ma'am." When verbally addressing generals, lieutenant colonels, and first and second lieutenants, use their short title; i.e., "how are you, Lieutenant?" or "Good morning, Colonel." It is an old (although not required) tradition that, when you address a senior officer, you speak in the third party; for example, "Would the Captain care to check the rifles, now?" or "Sir, Lieutenant Janson reporting for duty." (c) Speaking to Enlisted Marines. To promote pride and respect among your juniors, address them by name and grade. Avoid casual use of first name or nicknames. Senior enlisted Marines should also be addressed by their full grade and name. Such terms as "trooper" and "EMs" should never be used. Always refer to a Marine by grade, not pay grade. A sergeant is a "sergeant," not an "E-5." (d) Informal situations. First names and nicknames are proper with contemporaries or junior officers during social functions, during business hours in the privacy of the office, or in the club. (e) Miscellaneous. A common word in reference to a Marine captain is "Skipper"; however, it is more proper when used in addressing a captain company commander ("Skipper" is reserved for the Captain of the ship when at sea). It should also be noted that a Marine warrant officer wearing the bursting bomb insignia may be called "Gunner."

Saluting Officers and Uncased Colors

(1) Out-of-doors. Salute in the open air, the interior of such buildings as drill halls and gymnasiums when used for drill or exercises of Marines, on the weather decks of a man-of-war, or under roofed structures such as covered walks and shelters open at one or both sides to the weather. (2) Under arms. A Marine is under arms when he has a weapon in his/her hand, is equipped with side arms, or when wearing equipment pertaining to arms, such as sword sling, pistol belt, or cartridge belt. Any Marine wearing an "MP" or "SP" brassard is considered under arms. (3) When not in formation. When an officer approaches enlisted Marines who are not in a formation, the first to recognize the officer calls the group to attention as soon as the officer comes within six (6) paces. The salute is held until returned. The Marines remain at attention until the officer has passed or until he/she commands "carry on." (4) Overtaking. When you overtake an officer proceeding in the same direction, draw abreast on the left, render a hand salute and say "By your leave, Sir/Ma'am." The officer acknowledges the salute and replies "granted." When you overtake a Marine junior to you, pass on the right if possible. (5) Saluting distance. The maximum distance within which salutes are rendered and exchanged is prescribed as 30 paces. The salute should be rendered when six paces from the person (or color) to be saluted. (6) Uncased colors. Colors and standards not cased are saluted when either you or they approach or pass within six paces. Hold your salute until the colors have passed or you have passed the colors by six paces. (7) Prisoner chaser. An exception to the normal saluting practice is in the case of the prisoner chaser. A prisoner chaser does not salute an officer except when addressed by an officer in the line of duty. (8) Morning and evening colors. Members of the color detail render the hand salute as appropriate during raising the flag at morning colors. Members of the color detail render the hand salute as appropriate during the lowering of the flag at evening colors.

Report to a new command

(1) Your orders with "original orders" stamped across the top must be in your possession. (2) You must not report later than 2400 on the day you are required to report, or no later than the orders state, if the time of day is specifically stated. (3) You must be in the proper uniform when you arrive. (a) If you are reporting for duty ashore, the uniform is Service A'. (b) If you are reporting for duty on ship, the uniform is Dress Blue B'. (c) You must have in your possession all required items so stated in your orders. (e) All other pertinent orders or paperwork required by that command.

Standard

A flag mounted on a vehicle displaying the rank of General grade Officer or identifying a foreign dignitary. Also the Marine Corps flag is given the name standard.

Colors

A national flag when dismounted or carried uncased and unfurled.

Foreign Governments

Among the members of the friendly foreign governments whom you salute are: (a) Heads of State (b) Ambassadors (c) Ministers of Defense or other civilian leaders of defense establishments and their assistants at or above the Assistant Secretary of the Army, Navy and Air Force

Individuals Entitled to a Salute

As a service member, you will salute all officers who are senior to you in rank in any of the Armed Forces of the United States or of friendly foreign governments, officers of the Coast Guard, Geodetic Survey, and of the Public Health Service who are serving with the armed forces of the United States.

Entering a small vehicle or vessel

Boarding a small vessel or entering a car. When boarding a small boat or entering a car, juniors enter first and take up the seats or the space beginning forward, leaving the most desirable seat for the senior. Seniors enter last and leave first.

Procedure for boarding a naval vessel

Boarding ship. When boarding a U.S. Navy ship, face aft and salute the national Ensign. Then, face the Officer of the Deck, salute, and request permission to come aboard.

The Presidents Own

Established by an act of Congress in July 1798 (more than a century before the bands of the other three services), the Marine Band has performed at White House functions for every president except George Washington. Thomas Jefferson was especially fond of the band. Because of its traditional privilege of performing at the White House, the band is spoken of as "The President's Own."

Retreat, Hell! We just got here!

Fighting spirit and determination against heavy odds is a sound tradition in the Marine Corps. Nowhere is there a more graphic illustration than an incident which occurred in World War I. Legendary or true, it personifies the aggressive attitude of Marines. The occasion was the third great German breakthrough of 1918, when the 4th Marine Brigade and its parent 2d Infantry Division were thrown in to help stem the tide in the Belleau Wood sector. The 2d Battalion, 5th Marines had just arrived at its position when an automobile skidded to a stop and a French officer dashed out and approached the commanding officer. He explained that a general retreat was in progress and that orders were for the Marines to withdraw. The Marine officer exclaimed in amazement, "Retreat Hell! We just got here!" The Marines proceeded to prove their point. The battalion deployed and took up firing positions. As the Germans approached, they came under rifle fire which was accurate at ranges beyond their comprehension. Not in vain had the Marine Corps long stressed in its training the sound principles of marksmanship. The deadly fire took the heart out of the German troops, and the attack was stopped.

Appointed and Elected Officials

In addition there are certain appointed or elected civilian members of both our national and state governments who are so honored. Among the individuals of the United States you customarily salute are the following: (a) President of the United States (b) Vice President of the United States (c) State Governors (d) Secretary of Defense (e) Deputy Secretary of Defense (f) Senators and Congressmen (g) Secretaries of the Army, Navy and Air Force (h) Assistant Secretaries of the Army, Navy and Air Force

When not to Salute

In some situations, the salute is not appropriate. In general, you do not salute when: (1) Engaged in routine work when a salute would interfere. (2) Indoors, except when under arms. (3) Carrying articles with both hands or being otherwise so occupied as to make saluting impractical. (4) The rendition of the salute is obviously inappropriate. (5) Engaged in driving an automobile. However, whenever practical, you should return the salutes of others providing the vehicle can be driven safely. (6) In places of public assemblage such as theaters or churches, and in public conveyances. (7) You are in the ranks of a formation. However, if at ease in a formation, you come to attention when addressed by a senior. (8) When within sight of enemy soldiers.

Devil Dogs

In the Battle of Belleau Wood in 1918, the Germans received a thorough indoctrination into the fighting ability of Marines. Fighting through supposedly impenetrable woods and capturing supposedly untakeable terrain, the men of the 4th Marine Brigade struck terror in the hearts of the Germans, who referred to Marines as the Teufelhunden, meaning "fierce fighting dogs of legendary origin" or as popularly translated, "Devil Dogs."

First to Fight

Marines have been in the forefront of every American war since the founding of the Corps. They entered the Revolution in 1775, even before the Declaration of Independence was signed! Marines have carried out more than 300 landings on foreign shores. They have served everywhere, from the Arctic to the tropics; their record for readiness reflects pride, responsibility, and challenge.

The Marine Corps Motto (Semper Fidelis)

Marines have lived up to their motto, Semper Fidelis (always faithful), this is proven by the fact that there has never been a mutiny among U.S. Marines. This motto was adopted about 1883. Before that, there had been three mottos, all traditional rather than official. The first, Fortitudine (with fortitude), appeared about 1812. The second, By Sea and by Land, was obviously a translation of the Royal Marines' Per Mare, Per Terrem. Until 1848, the third motto was "To the Shores of Tripoli," in commemoration of O'Bannon's capture of Derne in 1805. In 1848, after the return to Washington of the Marine battalion which took part in the capture of Mexico City, this motto was revised to "From the Halls of Montezuma to the Shores of Tripoli." The current Marine Corps motto is shared with England's Devonshire Regiment.

Military courtesy

Military courtesy is the traditional form of politeness in the profession of arms. Military courtesy embraces much more than the salute or any other ritual. Courtesy is a disciplined state of mind. It must be accorded to all ranks and on all occasions. Courtesy to a senior indicates respect for authority, responsibility, and experience. Courtesy towards juniors expresses appreciation and respect for their support and for them as fellow Marines. Courtesy paid to the Colors and the National Anthem expresses loyalty to the United States. Military courtesy is a prerequisite to discipline. The Marine Corps has always stood at the top of the services in its full and willing observance of the twin virtues of soldierly courtesy and discipline.

Military Salute

Over the centuries, men-at-arms have rendered fraternal and respectful greetings to indicate friendliness. In early times, armed men raised their weapons or shifted them to the left hand (while raising the empty right hand) to give proof of their friendly intentions. During the Middle Ages, knights in armor on encountering friendly knights raised their helmet visors in recognition. In every case, the fighting man made a gesture of friendliness--the raising of the right hand. This gesture survives as today's hand salute, which is the traditional greeting among soldiers of all nations.

Uncommon valor was a common virtue

Refers to the victories in World War II, especially at Iwo Jima, the largest all-Marine battle in history. Admiral Nimitz's ringing characterization of Marines fighting on Iwo Jima was applied to the entire Marine Corps in World War II: "Uncommon valor was a common virtue."

Customs affiliated with the Marine Corps Birthday

The Marine Corps Birthday. The United States Marine Corps of today has had a continual existence since 1798, when President John Adams signed into law an act reestablishing the Corps. However, the traditional and official founding date of the Marine Corps is celebrated on 10 November. On this day in 1775, the Continental Congress, meeting in Philadelphia, authorized the raising and enlistment of two battalions of Marines for service with the newly formed naval forces of the colonies. This all started at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, making it the birthplace of the Corps. b. Marine Corps Birthday Celebration Customs. All Marine Corps activities, if at all practical, shall provide for suitable observance of the Marine Corps birthday on 10 November. When 10 November falls on a Sunday, the birthday will be celebrated on the preceding Saturday. Such observances shall be appropriate to the size and mission of the activity concerned in accordance with the local conditions and within financial means of personnel of the host activity. MCO P5060.20 The Marine Corps Drill and Ceremonies Manual outlines procedures for Birthday observances. (1) Troop formations, to include parades, are to be held when practical. The reading of General John A. Lejune's birthday message should be included. (2) Social observances to include the birthday ball and the traditional cake-cutting ceremony. (3) The first piece of cake to honor the oldest Marine present. (4) The second piece of cake to honor the youngest Marine present.

Sizes of Flags

The ceremonial hoisting and lowering of the national ensign at 0800 and sunset, respectively, shall be accomplished ashore per the provisions of U.S. Navy Regulations and this paragraph. (1) A detail consisting of a non commissioned officer and two enlisted members of the guard will hoist and lower the ensign. This detail will be armed with side arms, if the special equipment of the guard includes side arms; otherwise, the pistol belt only will be worn. (2) The commander of the guard ashore will see that the proper ensign is flown at the appropriate time and under all weather conditions. For different types of ensigns. Any member of the guard who observes any hazard to the ensign, such as loosened halyards, fouling, etc., will immediately report them o the commander of the guard. t (3) The National ensign varies in 3 different sizes. (a) Storm flag 5 ft X 9½ ft (b) Post Flag 10 ft X 19 ft (c) Garrison flag 20 ft X 38 ft

Guidon

The guidon is a company, battery, platoon or detachment identification flag. It is carried on an 8-foot staff at ceremonies and at other times prescribed by the commander.

Identify the Procedure for Saluting

The purpose of the hand salute is to demonstrate mutual respect and courtesy to members of military organizations and to show respect to national colors. It is executed in one count when halted at attention, marching at quick time, or seated in a vehicle. (1) You may salute without command from attention,while walking, or while seated in a vehicle. When walking, it is not necessary to halt to salute. Keep walking, but at attention. The salute is rendered when the person or colors to be saluted is at a 6-pace distance, or at the nearest point of approach if it is apparent that the person or color is not going to approach within 6 paces. The salute will not be rendered if the person (color) to be saluted does not approach within 30 paces.

Leatherneck

This nickname goes back to the leather stock or neckpiece, which was part of the Marine Corps uniform from 1775 to 1875. The leather collar was designed to protect the jugular vein from saber slashes. It also insured that Marines kept their heads erect and maintained military bearing. Although no longer used, it is commemorated by the standing collar on the dress blue and dress white uniform.

Disembark a naval vessel

When disembarking a U.S. Navy ship, face the Officer of the Deck, salute, and request permission to go ashore. Once permission is granted face aft and salute the national Ensign.

Exiting a small vehicle or vessel

When exiting a small boat or entering a car, seniors leave first, juniors exit last.

Identify Music for Parades and Ceremonies

a. National Anthem. When the National Anthem is played or "To the Colors" (Morning Colors) or "Retreat" (Evening Colors) is sounded, all military personnel come to attention, face toward the music and salute. You hold your salute until the last note of the music, but remain at attention until "Carry On" is sounded. If the National Anthem is being played incident to a ceremony involving the colors, face toward the colors rather than the music. (1) Marines in formation. Formations are halted and brought to attention, and the commander salutes facing in the direction of his unit's original front. (2) Personnel in vehicles. During playing of the National Anthem, all vehicles within sight or hearing of the ceremony stop. Passengers do not debark, but remain seated at attention. (3) In civilian clothing. Come to attention, and if wearing headgear, remove it and place it over your left breast with your right hand. Otherwise, place your right hand over your left breast. b. Marines' Hymn. The history of the Marines' Hymn is very sketchy; however, the melody was written by Jacques Offenbach and was performed for the first time on November 19, 1859. Although there is no record of the hymn's author, the words appeared on a recruiting poster in 1898. When the Marines' Hymn is being played outdoors, stop and come to attention. If it is played indoors, stand up and come to attention. You should memorize all three stanzas of the Hymn and be prepared to sing it out loud at any time. c. Rendering Honors. Another custom which you will be directly involved with is that of holding a parade or review to mark important events such as the presentation of awards, a change of command, or a retirement. During an official visit, the visiting dignitary is usually received by rendering "Honors." These usually consist of a gun salute, "Ruffles and Flourishes" and other martial music. The Marine Officer's Guide outlines exactly what honors are rendered to what dignitary. As a participant or spectator, you are required to stand and salute. Remember, when participating in parades or ceremonies, Drill and Ceremonies Manual contains the proper procedures to be used during these events.

Render honors to colors and standards

a. Render honors to colors. Colors not cased are saluted when either you or they approach or pass within six paces. Hold your salute until the colors have passed or you have passed the colors by six paces. b. Render honors to standards. Standards not cased are saluted when either you or they approach or pass within six paces. Hold your salute until the colors have passed or you have passed the colors by six paces.

Respond during a military funeral

a. The military aspect of a funeral usually begins at one of the following places, home of the deceased, mortuary, railroad station, church or chapel, cemetery gates, or the grave. It may, however, begin at any designated place. The ceremony starts when the escort first receives the remains. Before that, the body bearers may be detailed to conduct the remains wherever necessary. b. In general, the escort receives the body at one of the following places: (1) The designated place and conducts it to the place of services and then to the grave. (2) The chapel before, and conducts it to the grave after the services. (3) The cemetery gates and conducts it to the grave. (4) The grave. c. Each time the body bearers remove the remains: (1) The escort is brought to present arms. (2) The band renders prescribed honors, followed by appropriate music. (3) The pallbearers salute. (4) All observers in uniform, except the body bearers, salute. (5) All civilian-dressed Naval personnel, except women, uncover and hold the headdress over the heart with the right hand. Women place the right hand over the heart without uncovering. d. When the national colors is draped on the casket, it shall be placed so the stars are at the head of the casket over the left shoulder of the deceased. Nothing shall rest on top of the national colors. The colors will be removed as the casket is being lowered into the grave, and in time so the colors will not touch the ground. e. The casket is always carried foot first, except in the case of a clergyman whose casket is carried into and out of the church or chapel head first.

Walking with Marines

a. When walking with a senior, always walk to the left, one pace behind, and in step with that senior. b. When walking with another Marine, it is customary to walk along side of each other, in column of two's and in step with each other.