Posted on Aug 8, 2021
Is it ever permissible to salute with your left hand?
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Only situation that I could think of is either your right hand/arm is unable to salute (like in a sling) or you are a member of a ceremonial unit that wears a uniform from the 1700s.
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Customs and Courtesies
Customs and Courtesies
Posted >1 y ago
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Both of the things You say are true and also a Navy Boson's mate using His left hand for the Boson's pipe may salute with their left hand. The left hand also can be used for a salute from and individual carrying a guidon or a person carry in weapon at right shoulder arms.
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I believe that there is one time, and I think it has to do with the guidon. I was taught basic that saluting with your left hand is a sign of disrespect so I never do it. After I broke my hand I gave a head nod in acknowledgement and had anyone questioned me about my "salute" I would have explained the reason above.
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SMSgt Lawrence McCarter
Yes, if on carry Guidon which will be on You right while walking You do use Your left hand and touch the edge of the guidon staff to salute. The picture here is from Army Manual, TC3-21-5, Drills and ceremonies, May 2021 and shows the proper salute with the left hand from an individual carry of the guidon. There is a far different salute with the guidon itself extended if in formation. That salute with the guidon in this circumstance, and NOT in formation or reporting as an individual where a salute is warranted is common to all branches of the US Armed Forces. Picture (2) shows a soldier saluting in the manner described that I had learned where the leading edge of the left finger touch the guidon pole in salute. The current manual it appears changed that slightly and I Myself feel the older way was a lot sharper. I have performed as a guidon bearer in the past both IAW the Army Manual and later Air Force. Picture (3) Also if under arms and at Right shoulder arms the same type of salute with the left hand is authorized with the hand just below the lower received on the weapon on that salute. A Navy Bosons mate using a Boson's whistle in His right hand can also salute with the left hand. A person missing are having an incapacitated right arm can also salute with the left hand. I hope that answers any question You may have about left hand salutes. Note: You may have to click on the pictures to get the entire image.
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