SUMMARY
Customs and courtesies play an integral part of the
seafarer’s life. Through them, we show respect for each
other and for certain symbols or objects, such as the
American flag. When we address the commanding
officer as captain, even though he or she holds the rank
of commander, we are using a time-honored custom of
respect for the person in command.
The courtesy of the salute is not only the required
recognition of a senior but also the expression of mutual
respect and pride in service. The courtesy of rendering
honors to the Arizona Memorial and Washington’s
tomb is a sign of respect. The custom of officer
personnel boarding ships’boats after enlisted personnel
is another sign of respect. The customs and courtesies of
removing your hat indoors or in the presence of a lady,
of rendering honors to the national ensign, and of
playing the national anthem at morning and evening
colors are also signs of respect. Our customs and
courtesies will continue to be a part of our daily routine
as long as we maintain pride and respect in our Nation,
our service, and ourselves.
REVIEW 1 ANSWERS
A1. Define the following terms.
a. Courtesy—an act or verbal expression of
consideration or respect for others
b. Custom—a usual way of acting in a
situation that has been practiced so long
that it has the force of law
A2. A salute is a required act of military courtesy.
A3. The hand salute is the most common form of
salute.
A4. When in uniform, Navy personnel salute the
flag, anthem, and officers.
A5. True, under naval customs, the hand salute is
accompanied by a word of greeting.
A6. As an enlisted person, you should salute all
officers.
A7. When boarding a ship in which the national
ensign is flying, you should—
a. Stop on reaching the upper platform of the
accommodation ladder or end of brow
b. Face the ensign and salute
c. Salute the OOD
A8. As a sentry at a gangway, you should render a
salute—
a. To all officers going or coming over the side
b. When passing or being passed by officers
close aboard in boats
A9. The three rifle salutes are—
a. Present arms
b. Rifle salute at order arms
c. Rifle salute at right shoulder arms
A10. Honors are salutes rendered to ships,
high-ranking individuals, and nations.
A11. Manning the rail is a passing honor rendered to
the President of the United States.
A12. A ruler of a country recognized by the United
States rates a 21-gun salute.
REVIEW 2 ANSWERS
A1. Hoisting and lowering the national flag at 0800
and sunset are known as morning colors and
evening colors.
A2. Shifting the colors—as a ship gets underway,
the ensign is shifted from its in-port position
on the stern to its at-sea position on the
mainmast.
A3. National flags flown at half-mast are
internationally recognized symbols of
mourning.
9-19
Student Notes:
