Unit Commanders Course Customs, Courtesies and Ceremonies (Part 1) Civil Air Patrol Unit Commanders Course Customs, Courtesies and Ceremonies (Part 1)

Introduction Customs and courtesies remind us of our heritage, foster professionalism and respect 2

Can you: Describe how military customs and courtesies are appropriately shown and used? Explain how to plan and conduct military ceremonies? Describe the correct wear of given CAP uniforms? 3

Lieutenant Cadet Major Sergeant Sir/Ma’am Chaplain CAP distinguishes between adult members in their group by grade and cadets by referring to their grade of using the title, “Cadet.” This mirrors the military custom of always referring to members by their title and not by their first name. This is true even in social situations. It is a reflection of respect for the accomplishments of BOTH members if the conversation.

Let’s Practice! Finer points: Cadets are introduced to senior members. CAP members are introduced to distinguished visitors. Lower ranking officers are introduced to higher ranking officers. Men are introduced to woman. Younger people are introduced to older people. Offer a firm handshake when meeting someone new.

Standing at Attention The position of “Attention” is the base from which all other drill movements and courtesies are derived. To stand at attention: Stand with the knees slightly bent (to prevent fainting). Feet should have heels together with toe-side pointing out at a 45-degree angle. Arms should hang naturally at one’s sides with the thumb and forefinger touching the side-seam of the trouser (or at one’s side if wearing the skirt). Hands should be in a gentle fist with thumbs exposed and facing down to the floor. Finer points: If an officer who is higher ranking than anyone present enters the room, the first person to notice commands, “Room, ATTENTION?” If only senior members or officers are present, the first to notice the commander uses the more cordial, “Ladies and gentlemen, the commander,” instead. In a classroom or conference setting, or work environment, these customs are usually relaxed. “Attention” is the basic position used when standing in formation. When called to formation, immediately stand at Attention when you reach your place.

Parade Rest and At Ease Do you know the difference? To stand at Parade Rest: On “REST,” raise left foot slightly from hip and move smartly to the left. Heels 12-inches apart and on line; legs straight, but not stiff. As left foot moves brings arms fully extended to the back of the body. Extend and join fingers, pointing them to the ground with palms facing outward; right hand in palm of left, forming and “X.” Head and eyes straight ahead. Remain silent and still.

Present Arms To salute: Stand at attention. The right hand moves up to the head, parallel to the center of torso with the right arm bent at the elbow in a straight line, elbow to fingertips. The middle finger touches the outside corner of right eyebrow, hat visor or glasses, with palm tilted slightly towards the face. The upper arm is parallel with the ground. Finer points: Salutes are normally exchanged outdoors. Indoors, salute officers only when formally reporting (i.e. when called forward to receive and award). The junior person initiates the salute a fair distance from the senior person such that the senior has tie to return the salute. Offer a greeting, such as, “Good morning, Ma’am,” when exchanging salutes. When in formation, do not salute unless commanded to “Present Arms.” The commander salutes for the unit if an officer approaches. When in uniform, salute officers upon recognition, regardless of what the officer is wearing. For example, uniformed cadets salute their squadron commander even if the commander is in civilian attire. In such instances the commander would typically verbally acknowledge the salute, but does not return it. On some installations, such as Maxwell AFB, it is common to see military officers from friendly nations. It is customary for CAP members to salute these international officers as a sign of goodwill. Members of the United States Armed Forces and other foreign nations may, but are NOT required to salute CAP members. When in doubt, salute. Anyone may render a salute at any time if they believe one is warranted.

Honoring the Flag Indoors Outdoors See CAPP 151 or lesson for more info.

Facing positions (optional) Right (Left) Face About Face

Promotion Ceremony See CAPP 151 or lesson for more info.

Awards Ceremony See CAPP 151 or lesson for more info.

Change of Command See CAPP 151 or lesson for more info.

End of Part 1 See CAPP 151 or lesson for more info.

Unit Commanders Course