Can cadets give a first salute?

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 10:11:46 -0400

My good friend is graduating from the Naval Academy this weekend and he has asked me to be his first salute. I've seen this done before. One of my friends gave his sister her first salute when she graduated. I don't believe there are any regulations on it, rather a time honored tradition. I also know it's typically performed by NCOs but since cadets are required to salute officers just like any other soldier.... I'm just not sure what is "right."

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 10:21 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 10:21:52 -0400

I don't see why not

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made May 26 at 2016 10:23 AM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Thu, 26 May 2016 10:23:39 -0400

Yes that's totally fine and common. Once your friend is commissioned, you should be there and render a salute. It is also a tradition at some commissioning sources for the 'new officer' to give a gold dollar coin to the first person who salutes him or her. So maybe you will be $2 richer too :)

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 10:44 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 10:44:25 -0400

I've heard both yays and nays. My Professor of Military Science had a junior Cadet render him his first salute when he was commissioned, but our HR Administrator (a retired USAF E-9) said no Cadets and no one who's not an NCO. I'd say that as long as you were specifically asked and that your good friend's chain of command at USNA is aware that his first salute will be a Cadet and has greenlighted it, I'd say go for it. That's awesome that a friend is asking you.

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made May 26 at 2016 11:07 AM

SGM Erik Marquez — Thu, 26 May 2016 11:07:48 -0400

I do not believe you will find regulatory guidance on this.. That leaves local policy and socially / historically accepted norms.
End of the day its not worng... As you stated, cadets are required to salute commissioned officers.
Talk with the PMS,,, if it is ok with that leader, it should be fine.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made May 26 at 2016 11:44 AM

Cpl Justin Goolsby — Thu, 26 May 2016 11:44:10 -0400

The quote from the movie The Last Castle has always resonated with me. I see it as a sign of respect for that person and I wouldn't begrudge anyone who asked someone in particular to be their 1st salute.

[It comes from medieval times. Two knights would approach each other on horseback. They would raise their visors and show their faces. It's like they're saying, "This is who I am. I'm not the enemy and I'm not afraid." A salute's about respect, son. Respect for yourself, the service and the flag.]

Response by SrA Steve Susumu Monas made May 26 at 2016 12:07 PM

SrA Steve Susumu Monas — Thu, 26 May 2016 12:07:12 -0400

I am symbol of respect and long standing tradition. As long as they mean it. Yea it's fine.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 1:48 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 13:48:02 -0400

Anyone who is required to salute an officer is eligible to be your first salute. Make sure you have your silver dollar ready.

Beat Navy.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2016 4:12 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 May 2016 16:12:14 -0400

Once he commissions, would you, in your current status, be required to salute your good friend, were you to pass each other in uniform on the street? If yes, then I don't see any problem.

Response by SSgt Ryan Sylvester made May 26 at 2016 5:54 PM

SSgt Ryan Sylvester — Thu, 26 May 2016 17:54:29 -0400

My cousin just graduated from Army ROTC, and our uncle (retired Army CSM) was his first salute at the ceremony. Other cadets also had military family that were their's. Accompanied with the silver dollar, of course. So yes, it's allowed.