When Taps is played, is it required by any AR or Army Pub to stand at the Position of attention?

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 09:33:41 -0400

I always have even though I haven't found anything in writing, just because I feel it's the respectable thing to do, as I see it as more than just a song to signify "lights out". Any input on this would be greatly appreciated.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Aug 20 at 2015 9:36 AM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 09:36:10 -0400

You render a salute when Taps is played so you are standing at attention.

http://tapsbugler150.blogspot.com/2010/06/protocol-during-taps.html

CONDUCT/PROTOCOL DURING SOUNDING OF TAPS - During a rendition of Taps at a military funeral, memorial service or wreath ceremony,

-All present not in uniform should stand at attention facing the music with the right hand over the heart;

-Men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold the headdress at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart; and

-Individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of Taps and maintain that position until the last note;

-When Taps is sounded in the evening as the final call of the day at military bases, salutes are not required.

Response by CMSgt Mark Schubert made Aug 20 at 2015 9:39 AM

CMSgt Mark Schubert — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 09:39:56 -0400

Taps began as a signal for lights or lights out at the end of the day. For these purposes, there are no formal protocol procedures required. However, the playing of Taps continues to be a part of a military funeral/memorial honors ceremony. Upon hearing Taps at a military ceremony, proper protocol dictates those individuals in uniform render a salute until the music is complete. Civilians should remove their headgear and place their hand over their heart.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2015 11:22 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 11:22:47 -0400

I actually have looked into this as well.

From what I can tell you are only "required" to be at attention and salute (if in uniform) when Taps is played at a ceremony (funeral, etc.).

That said it is enforced to different degrees on installations as lights out. I have always come to attention for it and think it's "right" but I don't believe it is actually required.

Response by MSgt Curtis Ellis made Aug 20 at 2015 11:33 AM

MSgt Curtis Ellis — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 11:33:57 -0400

Throughout my career, I've discovered it depended on whose installation you were on and the guidance put out, and you are right. I have not seen anything in writing that specifically addresses it.

Response by SPC Curtis Kennedy made Aug 20 at 2015 5:55 PM

SPC Curtis Kennedy — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 17:55:36 -0400

It is as part of a military funeral and rendering a salute is also required and expected

Response by SPC William Ziemer made Oct 13 at 2017 8:23 PM

SPC William Ziemer — Fri, 13 Oct 2017 20:23:29 -0400

What is protocol for the President when taps is played?

Response by PO3 J.W. Nelson made Oct 14 at 2017 6:28 PM

PO3 J.W. Nelson — Sat, 14 Oct 2017 18:28:51 -0400

NO ! But out of pure respect for all the military men and women who have died to give you the opportunity to be alive to hear it, stand at attention !! I do !!