Customs and Courtesies | Mission to Commission

Introduction

Military customs and courtesies are the traditional practices and forms of behavior in the armed forces. They play a vital role in maintaining discipline, showing respect, and fostering camaraderie among service members. This guide provides an in-depth overview of the key customs and courtesies expected in the military, including detailed protocols and examples for various branches and situations.

General Customs and Courtesies

Saluting

When to Salute

Encounters with Senior Officers: Salute senior officers when you encounter them, indoors or outdoors.
National Anthem: Salute during the playing of the national anthem.
Raising or Lowering the Flag: Salute when the flag is being raised or lowered.
Reporting: Salute when reporting to a superior officer.
Passing an Officer: Salute when passing an officer who is senior in rank.

How to Salute

Standard Salute: Stand at attention, raise your right hand smartly until the tip of your forefinger touches the lower part of your headgear or forehead, palm facing down, with fingers extended and joined. Lower the hand to its natural position upon acknowledgment.
Without Headgear: If uncovered (without headgear), the salute is not rendered. Instead, stand at attention and greet verbally.

Who Salutes Whom

Junior to Senior: Junior service members salute senior officers. The junior initiates the salute, and the senior returns it.
Formation: When in formation, only the formation leader salutes unless given the command to "Present Arms."

Addressing Superiors and Subordinates

Officers: Addressed as "Sir" or "Ma'am," followed by their rank and last name. Example: "Good morning, Colonel Smith."
NCOs: Addressed by their rank and last name. Example: "Good afternoon, Sergeant Jones."
Enlisted Members: Addressed by their rank and last name, or simply "Private," "Specialist," etc.

Greeting of the Day

Time-Based Greetings: Use the appropriate greeting based on the time of day:
- Morning: "Good morning"
- Afternoon: "Good afternoon"
- Evening: "Good evening"
Incorporate Rank: Follow the greeting with the rank and name of the person being addressed. Example: "Good morning, Major Thompson."

Courtesies in Uniform

Indoors: Generally, do not salute unless reporting to a superior officer. Stand at attention when speaking to or being addressed by a superior.
Outdoors: Always salute when in uniform and covered (wearing a hat). Salute senior officers, the flag during ceremonies, and vehicles marked with officer insignia.

Standing and Sitting

At Attention: Stand at attention when speaking to or being addressed by a superior officer. Remain attentive and respectful.
Sitting: Sit at attention during meetings or briefings. Stand when a superior officer enters the room unless otherwise directed.

Table Etiquette

Formal Dining: Follow proper dining etiquette during formal meals. Wait for the senior officer to begin eating before you start.
Conversational Etiquette: Engage in respectful and appropriate conversation. Avoid controversial topics that may cause discord.
Toast Protocol: Participate in toasts with respect. Stand and raise your glass when toasting, and remain seated if you are the subject of the toast.

Specific Customs and Courtesies by Branch

Army

Reveille and Retreat: Stand at attention and salute during the playing of "Reveille" (morning) and "Retreat" (evening) when the flag is raised or lowered.
Change of Command: Attend and participate in change of command ceremonies, showing respect to incoming and outgoing commanders.
Dining-In and Dining-Out: Formal military dinners that include customs such as toasts, formal attire, and ceremonial procedures.
Standards of Dress: always Adhere to uniform regulations and grooming standards.

Weddings

Uniform: Officers and enlisted members may wear their dress uniforms during the ceremony. It is a personal choice, and the specific uniform depends on the formality of the event.
Arch of Sabers: A traditional element where an arch is formed by fellow officers with sabers for the couple to pass through.
Protocol: Follow military protocol for saluting and addressing superiors and guests, ensuring respect and decorum are maintained throughout the event.

Commissioning Ceremonies

Commissioning Ceremony: A significant event marking the transition from cadet or midshipman to officer. The ceremony includes the administration of the Oath of Office, the pinning of rank insignia, and the first salute.
Oath of Office: Recited by the new officer, pledging allegiance and commitment to the Constitution and the duties of an officer.
Pinning of Rank: Family members or mentors often pin the new officer's rank insignia onto their uniform.
First Salute: The newly commissioned officer receives their first salute from an enlisted service member, symbolizing the beginning of their leadership role. It is customary for the officer to present a silver dollar to the first person who salutes them as a token of respect and gratitude.

Service Academy Traditions

Ring Dance: A formal event where cadets receive their class rings, symbolizing their transition from cadets to future officers. The ring dance is a significant tradition that includes formal attire, dancing, and the presentation of rings.
Graduation Week: Includes various ceremonies and traditions leading up to commissioning, such as parades, award ceremonies, and the graduation ball.

Navy

Quarterdeck Customs: Salute the national ensign when boarding or departing a ship and salute the officer of the deck.
Colors Ceremony: Stand at attention and salute during morning and evening colors ceremonies.
Passing Honors: Render passing honors when meeting ships of superior rank, including sounding whistles and saluting.
Wardroom Etiquette: Observe proper dining etiquette and decorum in the wardroom, including standing when the commanding officer enters.
Crossing the Line Ceremony (Shellback Initiation): A traditional ceremony held when a ship crosses the equator. Sailors who have never crossed are called "Pollywogs" and are initiated by "Shellbacks" (those who have crossed before). Pollywogs undergo various rituals and challenges orchestrated by Shellbacks, symbolizing their transformation.
Grog Bowl: During formal events, such as dining-ins, a ceremonial grog bowl is prepared. Ingredients have symbolic meanings and are humorously explained as they are added. Drinking from the grog bowl is a tradition and a rite of passage.

Weddings

Uniform: Navy personnel often choose to wear their dress white or dress blue uniforms. Decorations and medals are worn according to the regulations.
Arch of Swords: Similar to the Army’s Arch of Sabers, Navy weddings may feature an Arch of Swords, typically performed by fellow officers or shipmates.
Nautical Traditions: Incorporate nautical traditions, such as maritime-themed vows or settings, reflecting the couple's connection to the sea.

Boarding a Ship

Procedure: When boarding a ship, always salute the national ensign if it is flying. Then salute the officer of the deck and request permission to come aboard.
Departing a Ship: When leaving, salute the officer of the deck and request permission to go ashore, then salute the national ensign.

Commissioning Ceremonies

Commissioning Ceremony: This ceremony marks the transition from midshipman to officer. It includes the administration of the Oath of Office, the pinning of rank insignia, and the first salute.
Oath of Office: The new officer pledges allegiance to the Constitution and commits to their duties as an officer.
Pinning of Rank: Family members, mentors, or senior officers pin the new officer's rank insignia onto their uniform.
First Salute: The newly commissioned officer receives their first salute from an enlisted sailor. It is customary for the officer to give a silver dollar to the first person who salutes them, symbolizing mutual respect.

Ship Selection Day

Ship Selection: An event for graduating midshipmen where they select their first ship assignment. This is a highly anticipated event, reflecting their preferences and performance.
Ceremony: Often involves a formal ceremony where midshipmen publicly announce their ship choices. Family and friends typically attend to celebrate the occasion.
Significance: Ship selection day marks the beginning of their careers at sea and is a momentous occasion that signifies their readiness to serve as naval officers.

Service Academy Traditions

Ring Dance: A formal event where midshipmen receive their class rings, symbolizing their transition from cadets to future officers. The ring dance is a significant tradition that includes formal attire, dancing, and the presentation of rings.
Graduation Week: Includes various ceremonies and traditions leading up to commissioning, such as parades, award ceremonies, and the graduation ball.

Air Force

Protocol Office: Follow protocols established by the Protocol Office for ceremonies, social functions, and formal events.
Call to Quarters: Observe the "Call to Quarters" signal by ceasing activities and coming to attention.
Wingman Concept: Embrace the Wingman concept by supporting and looking out for fellow airmen.
Professional Development: Participate in professional development opportunities and mentorship programs.
Grog Bowl: Similar to the Navy, the Air Force includes the tradition of the grog bowl during formal dining-ins. Ingredients symbolize various aspects of military life and history, and drinking from the grog is a humorous and ceremonial act.

Weddings

Uniform: Dress uniforms are commonly worn by Air Force personnel during weddings, with the choice between mess dress or service dress depending on the formality.
Arch of Sabers: The Air Force equivalent involves fellow officers forming an arch for the couple to walk through, symbolizing unity and protection.
Aviation Themes: Integrate aviation elements, such as aircraft flyovers or venue decorations, highlighting the couple's service in the Air Force.

Commissioning Ceremonies

Commissioning Ceremony: This ceremony marks the transition from cadet to officer, including the administration of the Oath of Office, the pinning of rank insignia, and the first salute.
Oath of Office: Recited by the new officer, pledging allegiance to the Constitution and committing to their duties.
Pinning of Rank: Family members, mentors, or senior officers pin the new officer's rank insignia onto their uniform.
First Salute: The newly commissioned officer receives their first salute from an enlisted airman. It is customary for the officer to present a silver dollar to the first person who salutes them, symbolizing respect and tradition.

Service Academy Traditions

Ring Dance: A formal event where cadets receive their class rings, symbolizing their commitment and future service as officers. The ring dance includes formal attire, dancing, and the presentation of rings.
Graduation Week: Includes various ceremonies and traditions leading up to commissioning, such as parades, award ceremonies, and the graduation ball.

Marine Corps

Marine Corps Birthday: Celebrate on November 10th with a cake-cutting ceremony and other traditions. Observe the reading of the Marine Corps Order.
Mess Night: Formal dinners that observe strict customs and courtesies, including toasts, seating arrangements, and speeches.
Esprit de Corps: Foster a sense of brotherhood and loyalty among Marines through shared traditions and values.
Attention to Detail: Demonstrate precision and attention to detail in all aspects of service.
Grog Bowl: During mess nights and other formal events, the Marine Corps includes the tradition of the grog bowl. Ingredients are humorously introduced and often represent different battles or traditions.

Weddings

Uniform: Marines often wear their dress blue or white uniforms, showcasing their pride and service.
Arch of Swords: Marine Corps weddings may include an Arch of Swords, performed by fellow Marines, adding a sense of tradition and honor.
Military Traditions: Emphasize Marine Corps traditions in the ceremony, such as incorporating the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor symbol in decor and vows.

Commissioning Ceremonies

Commissioning Ceremony: This ceremony marks the transition from candidate to officer, including the administration of the Oath of Office, the pinning of rank insignia, and the first salute.
Oath of Office: Recited by the new officer, pledging allegiance to the Constitution and committing to their duties.
Pinning of Rank: Family members, mentors, or senior officers pin the new officer's rank insignia onto their uniform.
First Salute: The newly commissioned officer receives their first salute from an enlisted Marine. It is customary for the officer to present a silver dollar to the first person who salutes them, symbolizing respect and tradition.

Service Academy Traditions

Ring Dance: A formal event where cadets receive their class rings, symbolizing their commitment and future service as officers. The ring dance includes formal attire, dancing, and the presentation of rings.
Graduation Week: Includes various ceremonies and traditions leading up to commissioning, such as parades, award ceremonies, and the graduation ball.

Coast Guard

Ceremonial Guard: Participate in and observe customs during official ceremonies and parades.
Boarding Protocol: Follow specific customs when boarding and disembarking vessels, including saluting the national ensign and the officer of the deck.
Search and Rescue (SAR): Uphold the highest standards of professionalism and readiness in search and rescue operations.
Community Engagement: Engage with and support local communities through outreach and volunteer efforts.
Crossing the Line Ceremony (Shellback Initiation): Similar to the Navy, the Coast Guard holds a crossing the line ceremony for sailors who cross the equator for the first time, involving rituals and challenges.

Weddings

Uniform: Coast Guard personnel may wear their dress whites or blues, depending on the season and formality of the event.
Arch of Swords: Similar to other branches, an Arch of Swords can be featured, symbolizing the unity and protection of the couple.
Maritime Elements: Include maritime elements such as lighthouse venues, nautical decorations, and Coast Guard insignia.

Boarding a Ship

Procedure: When boarding a ship, salute the national ensign if it is flying. Salute the officer of the deck and request permission to come aboard.
Departing a Ship: Request permission to go ashore from the officer of the deck and salute the national ensign.

Commissioning Ceremonies

Commissioning Ceremony: This ceremony marks the transition from cadet to officer, including the administration of the Oath of Office, the pinning of rank insignia, and the first salute.
Oath of Office: Recited by the new officer, pledging allegiance to the Constitution and committing to their duties.
Pinning of Rank: Family members, mentors, or senior officers pin the new officer's rank insignia onto their uniform.
First Salute: The newly commissioned officer receives their first salute from an enlisted Coast Guardsman. It is customary for the officer to present a silver dollar to the first person who salutes them, symbolizing respect and tradition.

Traditions and Heritage

Uniform Standards

Wear with Pride: Wear the uniform with pride and adhere to regulations regarding appearance, grooming, and conduct.
Inspection Ready: Maintain uniforms in a clean and serviceable condition, ready for inspection at all times.
Medals and Decorations: Wear medals, ribbons, and other decorations according to regulations, ensuring proper placement and alignment.

Unit Traditions

Unit Mottos and Mascots: Participate in and uphold unit-specific traditions, which may include mottos, mascots, and unique customs.
Battle Streamers: Understand the history and significance of battle streamers attached to unit colors.
Historical Awareness: Educate yourself about your unit's history and significant achievements.

Ceremonial Events

Changes of Command: Attend and respect change of command ceremonies, which symbolize the transfer of authority.
Promotions and Retirements: Participate in ceremonies honoring promotions and retirements, showing respect to those advancing or leaving service.
Memorial Services: Attend memorial services and honor fallen comrades with appropriate solemnity and respect.
Award Ceremonies: Show support and recognition during award ceremonies for fellow service members' achievements.

Funerals

Military Funerals

Respect and Dignity: Attend military funerals with the utmost respect and dignity. Wear the appropriate uniform and adhere to dress standards.
Ceremonial Honors: Participate in or observe ceremonial honors, including the playing of "Taps," the folding and presentation of the flag, and the firing of volleys.
Support for Families: Offer condolences and support to the families of the deceased. Show empathy and understanding during their time of loss.

Flag Etiquette

Half-Staff: Understand the protocol for flying the flag at half-staff during periods of mourning.
Flag Presentation: During funerals, the flag is presented to the next of kin as a token of respect and gratitude for the service member's sacrifice.

Retirement Ceremonies

Planning and Preparation

Event Planning: Ensure proper planning and preparation for retirement ceremonies. This includes selecting a venue, sending invitations, and coordinating with the retiree's unit.
Speeches and Tributes: Prepare speeches and tributes that honor the retiree's service and achievements. Include anecdotes and memories that highlight their contributions.

Ceremony Conduct

Uniform and Appearance: Adhere to uniform standards and ensure a sharp appearance for the ceremony.
Presentation of Awards: Present retirement awards and certificates with respect and formality.
Family Acknowledgment: Recognize and thank the retiree's family for their support and sacrifices.

Dining-Ins and Dining-Outs

Dining-In

Formality and Tradition: Dining-ins are formal events that involve strict adherence to military traditions and customs. They are typically for service members only.
Sequence of Events: Follow the established sequence of events, which may include a receiving line, posting of colors, toasts, and formal speeches.
Mess Rules: Observe the mess rules, which may include fines for infractions such as lateness or improper dress.
Grog Bowl: The grog bowl is a central element of dining-ins, where a concoction of various ingredients is mixed and served ceremonially. Each branch may have its own unique traditions and humorous explanations for the ingredients used.

Dining-Out

Inclusion of Guests: Dining-outs are similar to dining-ins but include spouses and guests. They are social events that celebrate camaraderie and esprit de corps.
Toasts and Ceremonies: Participate in toasts and ceremonial activities, showing respect for military traditions.
Dress Code: Adhere to the formal dress code, which may include mess dress or formal evening wear.

Christening a New Ship

Ship Christening Ceremony

Ceremonial Protocols: Follow established protocols for the christening of a new ship, which may include the breaking of a bottle of champagne over the bow.
Naming and Blessing: The ship is named and blessed during the ceremony, often by a sponsor who is typically a prominent individual or family member of the ship's namesake.
Involvement of Dignitaries: The ceremony may involve speeches and participation by dignitaries, naval officers, and shipbuilders.

Traditions and Customs

Historical Significance: Understand the historical significance of ship christening traditions and their importance in naval heritage.
Celebration and Reception: Following the christening ceremony, there may be a reception to celebrate the commissioning of the new ship.

At-Sea Celebrations

Crossing the Line Ceremony (Shellback Initiation)

Neptune's Court: A traditional ceremony held when a ship crosses the equator. Sailors who have never crossed are called "Pollywogs" and are initiated by "Shellbacks" (those who have crossed before).
Rituals and Challenges: Pollywogs undergo various rituals and challenges orchestrated by Shellbacks, symbolizing their transformation.
Certificates: At the end of the ceremony, Pollywogs receive certificates marking their transformation into Shellbacks, recognizing their new status.

Blue Nose Ceremony

Arctic Circle Crossing: Similar to the Shellback ceremony but for crossing the Arctic Circle. Sailors become "Blue Noses" upon completion of the ceremony.
Cold Water Rituals: The initiation may involve activities in cold water to symbolize the Arctic environment.
Commemoration: Sailors receive certificates and recognition for crossing the Arctic Circle.

Birthdays and Anniversaries

Service Birthdays

Army Birthday: Celebrate the Army's birthday on June 14th, commemorating its establishment in 1775. Activities may include formal ceremonies, cake-cutting, and historical presentations.
Navy Birthday: Celebrate the Navy's birthday on October 13th, marking its establishment in 1775. Events include formal balls, cake-cutting ceremonies, and speeches highlighting naval history.
Marine Corps Birthday: Celebrate on November 10th with the traditional cake-cutting ceremony and other events. The Marine Corps Order is read, and the oldest and youngest Marines present are honored.
Air Force Birthday: Celebrate on September 18th, recognizing the Air Force's establishment in 1947. Events include formal balls, speeches, and cake-cutting ceremonies.
Coast Guard Birthday: Celebrate on August 4th, marking the Coast Guard's founding in 1790. Activities may include formal ceremonies, cake-cutting, and historical presentations.

Significant Anniversaries

Pearl Harbor Day: Commemorate the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7th with ceremonies, moments of silence, and educational events.
D-Day Anniversary: Mark the anniversary of the D-Day landings on June 6th with ceremonies, reenactments, and educational events.
Veterans Day: Observed on November 11th to honor all veterans. Events include parades, ceremonies, and educational programs.

Weddings and Special Events

Military Weddings

Uniform Protocol: Service members may wear their dress uniforms during the ceremony. The specific uniform depends on the branch and formality of the event.
Arch of Sabers/Swords: A traditional element where an arch is formed by fellow officers with sabers or swords for the couple to pass through.
Military Protocol: Follow military protocol for saluting and addressing superiors and guests, ensuring respect and decorum are maintained throughout the event.

Special Celebrations

Ring Dance: A formal event for service academy cadets and midshipmen to receive their class rings. The event includes formal attire, dancing, and the presentation of rings.
Graduation Week: Service academies celebrate graduation week with various ceremonies, including parades, award ceremonies, and the graduation ball.
Service Anniversaries: Celebrate significant anniversaries of service milestones with ceremonies, award presentations, and social gatherings.

Customs for Special Occasions

Military Balls and Celebrations

Military Balls

Formal Attire: Wear the appropriate uniform or formal attire for military balls. Ensure your appearance is impeccable.
Protocol and Etiquette: Follow established protocols and etiquette for formal events, including greetings, seating arrangements, and toasts.
Participation: Engage in the event's activities with enthusiasm and respect. Show appreciation for the event organizers and hosts.

Special Celebrations

Marine Corps Birthday Ball: Participate in the Marine Corps Birthday Ball with respect and adherence to traditions, including the cake-cutting ceremony and reading of the Marine Corps Order. The ball celebrates the founding of the Marine Corps on November 10, 1775.
- Formal Dress: Marines wear their dress blue uniforms, and guests dress in formal attire.
- Ceremonial Protocol: The evening includes a formal program with speeches, toasts, and the presentation of the birthday cake. The oldest and youngest Marines present are traditionally honored with the first pieces of cake.
- History and Traditions: Emphasize the rich history and traditions of the Marine Corps, fostering a sense of pride and camaraderie among attendees.
- Grog Bowl: A traditional grog bowl may also be included, where the ingredients symbolize various aspects of Marine Corps history and traditions.
Navy Ball: Attend the Navy Ball to celebrate the Navy's birthday, observing traditions such as the cutting of the birthday cake and speeches by senior officers.
- Uniform and Attire: Navy personnel wear their dress uniforms, while civilians and guests wear formal attire.
- Historical Significance: Celebrate the Navy's heritage and contributions, with a focus on its founding on October 13, 1775.
- Events and Activities: The ball typically includes a formal dinner, dancing, and socializing, with an emphasis on camaraderie and naval traditions.
- Grog Bowl: A ceremonial grog bowl may be prepared, with humorous and symbolic explanations for the ingredients used.
Air Force Ball: Celebrate the Air Force's anniversary with formal ceremonies, speeches, and the traditional cutting of the birthday cake.
- Dress Code: Air Force personnel wear their mess dress or semi-formal uniforms, and guests wear evening attire.
- Anniversary Celebrations: The Air Force Ball commemorates the establishment of the Air Force on September 18, 1947, with a focus on its history and achievements.
- Program Highlights: The evening includes speeches, awards, and recognitions, emphasizing the Air Force's role and contributions to national defense.
- Grog Bowl: A grog bowl may be part of the festivities, where the ingredients have humorous and symbolic meanings.

Memorial and Remembrance Events

Memorial Day

Participation: Participate in Memorial Day ceremonies with reverence. Honor fallen service members through observances, parades, and moments of silence.
Respect: Show respect during moments of silence and wreath-laying ceremonies, reflecting on the sacrifices made by service members.

Veterans Day

Acknowledgment: Acknowledge the contributions of veterans on Veterans Day. Attend ceremonies and events that recognize their service.
Support: Show support for veterans by participating in community events and offering assistance to veteran organizations.

Unit Memorials

Traditions: Respect unit-specific memorials and traditions. Participate in events that honor fallen comrades and their sacrifices.
Attendance: Attend memorial services and ceremonies, showing solidarity with fellow service members and their families.

Customs and Courtesies During Deployment

Interacting with Host Nations

Cultural Awareness: Educate yourself about the culture and customs of the host nation. Show respect and sensitivity to local traditions and practices.
Professional Conduct: Maintain professional conduct when interacting with host nation personnel and civilians. Represent the military with dignity and respect.
Operational Security: Adhere to operational security protocols. Avoid sharing sensitive information with unauthorized individuals.

Working with Coalition Forces

Teamwork and Collaboration: Foster teamwork and collaboration with coalition forces. Show respect for their customs and courtesies.
Communication Protocols: Follow established communication protocols. Use clear and respectful language in all interactions.
Shared Objectives: Focus on shared objectives and mission success. Work together to achieve common goals.

Customs for Returning Home

Reintegration: Support the reintegration process for returning service members. Provide resources and assistance to ease their transition.
Welcome Home Ceremonies: Participate in welcome home ceremonies with enthusiasm and respect. Show appreciation for the service and sacrifices of returning personnel.
Support Networks: Encourage the use of support networks and resources. Help returning service members connect with organizations that offer assistance and guidance.

Additional Ceremonies and Traditions

Marine Corps Birthday Ball

Cake-Cutting Ceremony: The oldest and youngest Marines present are honored by cutting the first slice of the birthday cake.
Reading of the Marine Corps Order: The Marine Corps Order, which established the Marine Corps on November 10, 1775, is read aloud.
Formal Attire: Marines wear their dress blue uniforms, and guests dress in formal attire.
Grog Bowl: A traditional grog bowl may also be included, where the ingredients symbolize various aspects of Marine Corps history and traditions.

Navy Ship Christening

Breaking the Bottle: A bottle of champagne is broken over the bow of the ship by the sponsor, often a prominent individual or family member of the ship's namesake.
Blessing the Ship: The ship is blessed and named during the ceremony.
Ceremonial Traditions: The ceremony may involve speeches and participation by dignitaries, naval officers, and shipbuilders.
Reception: A reception often follows the christening ceremony to celebrate the commissioning of the new ship.

At-Sea Celebrations

Crossing the Line Ceremony (Shellback Initiation): A traditional ceremony held when a ship crosses the equator, with rituals and challenges for Pollywogs.
Blue Nose Ceremony: Similar to the Shellback ceremony but for crossing the Arctic Circle, with cold water rituals and certificates for participants.
First Salute: The newly commissioned officer receives their first salute from an enlisted sailor, with a customary presentation of a silver dollar.

Service Academy Commissioning Week Ceremonies

Parades and Reviews: Cadets and midshipmen participate in parades and reviews to showcase their skills and training.
Awards Ceremonies: Recognition of outstanding achievements and presentation of awards to cadets and midshipmen.
Graduation Ball: A formal event that includes dancing, speeches, and celebration of the cadets' and midshipmen's achievements.
Graduation and Commissioning Ceremony: The highlight of the week, where cadets and midshipmen take the Oath of Office and are commissioned as officers.
Oath of Office: The new officers pledge allegiance to the Constitution and commit to their duties.
Pinning of Rank: Family members, mentors, or senior officers pin the new officers' rank insignia onto their uniforms.
First Salute: The newly commissioned officers receive their first salute from an enlisted service member. It is customary for the officer to present a silver dollar to the first person who salutes them, symbolizing respect and tradition.

Air Force Commissioning Week Ceremonies

Recognition Parade: Cadets march in a formal parade to signify their recognition and acceptance into the Air Force as future officers.
Honor Night: An event where cadets are recognized for their academic, athletic, and leadership achievements.
Commissioning Ceremony: Cadets take the Oath of Office, pledging their commitment to the Constitution and their duties as officers.
Pinning of Rank: Family members, mentors, or senior officers pin the new officer's rank insignia onto their uniform.
Graduation Parade: Cadets participate in a final parade, marking the end of their training and the beginning of their careers as officers.
Ring Dance: Cadets receive their class rings, symbolizing their commitment and future service as officers.
Graduation Ball: A formal event that includes dancing, speeches, and celebration of the cadets' achievements.

Special Traditions and Celebrations

Ship Selection Day (Navy)

Ceremony and Announcement: Midshipmen publicly announce their ship choices in a formal ceremony attended by family and friends.
Celebration: Following the announcement, there is often a celebration to mark the beginning of the midshipmen's careers at sea.
Significance: Ship selection day signifies the readiness of midshipmen to serve as naval officers and their commitment to their future roles.

Additional Service Academy Traditions

Ring Dance: A formal event where cadets and midshipmen receive their class rings, symbolizing their transition from cadets to future officers.
Graduation Week: Includes various ceremonies and traditions leading up to commissioning, such as parades, award ceremonies, and the graduation ball.

Navy Dining Customs

Dining-In and Dining-Out

Formality and Tradition: Dining-ins are formal events that involve strict adherence to military traditions and customs. Dining-outs include spouses and guests.
Sequence of Events: Follow the established sequence of events, including a receiving line, posting of colors, toasts, and formal speeches.
Mess Rules: Observe mess rules, which may include fines for infractions such as lateness or improper dress.
Grog Bowl: The grog bowl is a central element of dining-ins, with a concoction of various ingredients mixed and served ceremonially. Each ingredient has symbolic and humorous explanations.

Additional Navy Customs

Crossing the Line Ceremony: A traditional ceremony held when a ship crosses the equator, with rituals and challenges for Pollywogs.
Blue Nose Ceremony: Similar to the Shellback ceremony but for crossing the Arctic Circle, with cold water rituals and certificates for participants.
First Salute: The newly commissioned officer receives their first salute from an enlisted sailor, with a customary presentation of a silver dollar.

Conclusion

Understanding and adhering to military customs and courtesies are essential for maintaining discipline, respect, and unity within the armed forces. These practices foster a sense of tradition and honor, helping service members to carry out their duties with professionalism and pride. By embracing these customs and courtesies, service members contribute to the overall effectiveness and cohesion of the military.