Military customs and courtesies Published Oct. 14, 2008 By Jessica Rossman 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs student intern SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Customs and courtesies are a tradition Airmen have followed for years that tell them what they should and shouldn't do in many situations involving the military. All members must abide by these traditions that include respect for the flag, respect and recognition toward other servicemembers and types of ceremonies. Having respect for the flag is very important. Military members respect the flag in accordance with laws relating to the U.S. flag that are detailed in the United States Code. In order to respect and care for the flag, there are certain things members should never do, like allow the flag to touch anything beneath it such as the ground, floor or water. The flag should never be stored in a place where it could get torn, soiled or damaged. Never place a flag or pennant above the flag. Do not drape the flag over the hood, side, or back of a vehicle, train or boat. To show respect, display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and stationary flagstaffs. The flag should be flown during the school day in or near the school house every day. Anyone outside in uniform must face the flag and salute during the raising and lowering of the flag. Showing respect and knowing how to care for the flag isn't the only custom or courtesy that Airmen follow; members must also respect each other. Whether Air Force, Army, Navy or Marine, everyone must show respect to each other. Everyone deserves respect. "Respect is a broad street that applies to all," said Master Sgt. Keith Holbert. "Remembering to say 'please' and 'thank you' every day is courteous." Additionally, Sergeant Holbert recommends, unless someone is told otherwise, to rise and acknowledge a senior member when he or she enters or leaves the room, and be sure to address senior members accordingly. These acts of respect should be performed every day to show common courtesy, he said. Ceremonies are another tradition of the armed forces. There are many different types of ceremonies including reenlistments, retirements, promotions and more. Each type of ceremony has its own guidelines and procedures that must be followed. For example, during a reenlistment ceremony, according to AFPAM 36-2241, Professional Development Guide, unit commanders will honor all reenlistees through a dignified reenlistment ceremony without special gimmicks or publicity stunts. The Airman may request any commissioned officer to perform the ceremony. The U.S. flag must form a backdrop for the participants, and reenlistees and reenlisting officers must wear an authorized uniform for the ceremony. The Oath of Enlistment is the core of the ceremony. A retirement ceremony is held to honor the member and ensure members are recognized for their service to their country, the Air Force, and to assure them they will remain a part of the Air Force family in retirement. During the ceremony, the member receives a certificate of retirement, the Air Force retired lapel button, and appropriate awards, decorations, honors and letters of appreciation. These are a just few examples of military ceremonies, and certain aspects of the military's customs and courtesies. (Editor's note: Information on the laws relating to the flag of the U. S. of America are found in detail in the United States Code. Title four, Chapter one pertains to the flag; Title 18, Chapter 33, Section 700 regards criminal penalties for flag desecration; Title 36, Chapter 3 pertains to patriotic customs and observances. These laws were supplemented by Executive Orders and Presidential Proclamations. This information was taken from www.ushistory.org)