Why do Marine Corps officers never salute back?

2013-11-11T18:47:00-05:00

While on entry controller duty on my assigned installation we are required to render all proper customs and courtesies to both foreign and domestic officers to include warrant officers. For the most part the foreign officers respectfully acknowledge the salute and offer one back. Something I have been noticing though is the lackluster salutes given by officers from my own country. I greatly respect officers because that is what I was taught and because I know that everyone has their part to play in the military. However it is discouraging when American officers render a salute from their upper lip, or cuff their hands in the shape of a "C" while saluting. But something I just have never understood is why do Marine Corps officers never salute back? 

Response by CMC Robert Young made Nov 11 at 2013 7:07 PM

2013-11-11T19:07:32-05:00

<p>A1C, I actually had a similar event walking across the parking lot in front of the exchange last week. A junior officer stuttered his way through returning my salute. It was almost as if he didn't think it was necessary. Makes you wonder what's going on the academy, ROTC, and OCS these days....</p><p> </p><p>Good on you for doing the right thing. Their poor performance never reflects poorly on you.</p>

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2013 11:26 PM

2013-11-11T23:26:49-05:00

Concerning US Army personnel: AR 600-25 para 1-5 d.; USAF AFPAM 34-1202 para 8.4.6.7. I interpret the AR as the SM driving not being required to render, and not initiating a salute. It seemed slightly vague, but we do it anyway. For the AFPAM, they are to return the salute "when practical". <div><br></div><div>When I was in the USAF we were told "when in doubt, salute", and as always "Sir" or "Ma'am" everyone. As long as you're doing the right thing, that's what matters. Integrity First! </div><div><br></div><div>I hope this helps...</div>

Response by SSgt Frank Lanford made May 5 at 2016 9:43 AM

2016-05-05T09:43:28-04:00

SrA Murrell, I put in many years as an Elite Gate Guard back in the day, and I must admit I rarely noted IF an Officer ever saluted me back or not, as in my mind "I" was doing what I was required to do by rendering a salute, and then immediately moving on to the next car to wave through. I admit that as a young Airman just stationed to Elemendorf AFB in Anchorage, Alaska, I waved in a Canadian Air Force staff car without realizing that the license plate on the bumper (with one red Maple leaf on it) was the equivalent to an American One Star General, and I failed to salute the Canadian General and yes I did get a call from the LE desk shortly thereafter and was set straight on the whole each Maple leaf equals one Star thing :-)

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2016 12:24 PM

2016-05-06T12:24:41-04:00

Marine officers do not render salutes when they are wearing civvies, nor when they are not wearing covers even if in uniform.

Even in uniform, we are not required to wear covers in vehicles, particularly as the driver since doing so may be a safety hazard (but we can if we chose to and deem it safe.)

Now, in order to avoid precisely the question that was asked, I have started saluting non-Marine guards and sentries because it's more conducive to keeping good relations with sister services, and it sure as hell is faster than trying to educate a non-Marine base one guard at a time...

Response by SP5 George Doyle made Aug 20 at 2017 11:28 AM

2017-08-20T11:28:46-04:00

It does not natter wat branch ur in or watever if u r receiving a salute from someone if u r n officer u should definitely return the salute if u r at the rank off n officer n u gained the respect to get saluted u should definitely be respectful enough to return one back. My family was all military in every branch n we were taught if u an officer u slaute n if u r that officer n ur being slauted u better return it back to the person ur being saluted from

Response by Capt Bob Soldner made Aug 20 at 2017 11:29 AM

2017-08-20T11:29:19-04:00

Thru RESPECT!

Response by MAJ Albert McCaig made Aug 20 at 2017 4:42 PM

2017-08-20T16:42:48-04:00

Salute! It is not demeaning but denotes respect between comrades in arms. Learn how to do it correctly and do it! Stand in front of the mirror until you know your DI or Senior TAC would approve.

Response by 1stSgt Eugene Harless made Aug 21 at 2017 5:22 AM

2017-08-21T05:22:27-04:00

I certainly never noticed this trend with USMC officers. There are instances like someone stated in an earlier post where Naval Services do not salute, either officer or enlisted.

Response by MSgt Billy Harcus made Jan 15 at 2018 8:04 PM

2018-01-15T20:04:34-05:00

i have never had a marine officer fail to return a salute. it is a show of respect from both.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2018 12:59 PM

2018-01-16T12:59:17-05:00

I’ve never run into this situation. Amy officer from any branch I’ve ever saluted has rendered one back. Even sometimes anticipate my salute before I render it and salute before I do.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2018 11:20 PM

2018-01-19T23:20:49-05:00

I had a rather odd encounter with a army officer. While on I&I duty we took our Marines to the local army base to run a PFT ( standard for our unit). As our Marines are crossing the finish line a soldier approaches us in PT gear and tells us to leave the base immediately because no one saluted him while they were running. We were dumbfounded because we also didn't know who he was. He ended up being the base commander, we explained that we do not salute in PT gear and we were also unaware he was the base commander. He said that was unacceptable in a very rude manner so It ended up getting much worse(

Response by Megan Miller made Jan 20 at 2018 10:52 PM

2018-01-20T22:52:53-05:00

My son will salute every officer when it is necessary and respectful, how dare you even disgrace this branch of the military

Response by Megan Miller made Jan 20 at 2018 10:53 PM

2018-01-20T22:53:23-05:00

Know your worth

Response by LCpl Dave Snider made Jan 21 at 2018 12:52 PM

2018-01-21T12:52:26-05:00

Marines don’t salute unless there under arms

Response by SSgt Julius Bob Midgett made Jan 21 at 2018 2:12 PM

2018-01-21T14:12:09-05:00

Marines do not salute when driving or when uncovered nor when indoors unless under arms also the first time an officer is encountered onboard a ship you salute after that a salute is not required until the next day

Response by Sgt Louis Alpers made Jan 21 at 2018 3:21 PM

2018-01-21T15:21:17-05:00

A marine if uncovered dose not salute

Response by LCpl Travis Harris made Jan 21 at 2018 5:02 PM

2018-01-21T17:02:36-05:00

Marines, Marine Warrant Officers, & Marine Officers do not salute while in civilian attire, indoors, in the field, or anytime without wearing a cover. The only exception is while standing duty. A duty belt is worn with cover regardless of indoors or outside. In this instance a salute will be rendered. Marines, MWO's, & Marine Officers follow Marine traditions and rules, regardless of location unless otherwise directed to deviate(very rare) by the commanding officer.

Response by Sgt James Piatt made Jan 21 at 2018 7:47 PM

2018-01-21T19:47:20-05:00

Why do you guys hate on the Marine Corps and the Navy? Make sure your Soldiers and Airman render sales per your branch’s regulations. The Marine Corps nor the Navy doesn’t need anyone from any other branch to police them. Believe me we police our own. This is instilled in both Sailors and Marines in BootCamp. I was in the Army Reserves prior to switching over to the Marine Corps.

Response by CSM John Pepper made Jan 21 at 2018 8:06 PM

2018-01-21T20:06:27-05:00

Stationed at the Five Sided Funny Farm for a number of years. Never, ever have I had an officer fail to return a salute or a salutation. Counterpoint: Why do Air Force Security Police at the gates to an Air Force Base call me SIR? I'm not a sir, I'm a Command Sergeant Major, the proper honorarium is Sergeant Major. If you're working a gate, at least learn the ranks for the other branches of service. That is all.

Response by PFC Mark Rackley made Jan 22 at 2018 3:18 PM

2018-01-22T15:18:12-05:00

My school outta bootcamp was Fort Sill and we got tired of saluting enlisted because they have the brass US on their collars

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2018 5:39 PM

2018-01-22T17:39:36-05:00

First off thanks for sharing this photo of our Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps Who is now retired. I knew the General while he was the CG at MCRD, San Diego CA. For your question about why Marine Corps Officers never salute back. Well first you’re not in the Marine Corps so how would you know. Secondly, Why would any Marine Corps Officer never return your salute in the first place. But most importantly from my perspective on saluting Marine Corps Officers, we do salute when properly rendered and in the proper arena. I’m a Mustang Officer who served as an enlisted Marine Gunny and as a Chief Warrant Officer. During my tours of duty (1972-1994) I’ve never seen or witness what you’re implying to. So if you’re still worried about your question, give this Marine Chief Warrant a holler. Semper Fi Mac!

Response by Cpl Doni Robinson made Jan 22 at 2018 8:49 PM

2018-01-22T20:49:42-05:00

I became a Marine in 1988 and I was taught to salute all officers. When in doubt salute. mariners don’t wear covers indoors and we don’t salute when not wearing a cover. Everyone is sir or ma’am. It’s just a sign of respect. Parrish Island Marine all day every day!

Response by MGySgt Gaylord Mays made Jan 22 at 2018 10:40 PM

2018-01-22T22:40:24-05:00

Marines have a saying, "If it moves salute, if it doesn't paint it". Marines are also taught to salute officers of foreign military services too.

Response by SMSgt Frank Shaw made Jan 22 at 2018 10:51 PM

2018-01-22T22:51:23-05:00

What does a "cover" have to do with returning a salute?

Response by LCpl Anthony Orr made Jan 23 at 2018 7:33 AM

2018-01-23T07:33:06-05:00

I was in from '87 to '91. Not once did I ever experience a Marine officer rendering a less than perfect salute in return to mine and always with a crisp finishing cut. If the had their hands full of something then would at least verbally acknowledge my salute and greeting.greeting .

Response by Sgt Tee Organ made Jan 23 at 2018 7:44 AM

2018-01-23T07:44:11-05:00

Not sure what youre referencing, as Most Marine Corps officers salute, all of them render acknowledgement at least when I was in they did. Here are some exceptions: Marines do not salute indoors unless they are on a duty status and covered. I understand the Army does salute indoors when reporting and may be some other rule for rendering salutes indoors, Marines do not salute indoors other than the manner I mentioned above. Marines do not salute in field environments either. If you are in the field and salute an Officer they will likely not respond. PT is another exception. Any other situation where salutes are expected I have seen them being rendered appropriately. Hope this helps.

Response by Cpl John Craig made Jan 23 at 2018 12:56 PM

2018-01-23T12:56:17-05:00

They are told not to in a posable hostile area of operations, So not to give a posable sniper a high value target

Response by SSgt Skip Paige made Jan 23 at 2018 2:16 PM

2018-01-23T14:16:01-05:00

Never? Difficult to believe. BUT, certainty as a custom and courtesy, rendering a sharp salute is and always will be as sharp as the service sword we carry. IF a salute was not returned, I believe it may be because he did not see or hear you. OR he may be disappointed in your poor attempt at respect through a sloppy, half-assed salute.

Response by CWO5 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 23 at 2018 3:27 PM

2018-01-23T15:27:00-05:00

Marines only slalute when under cover (thats when wearing a hat for you Air Force dudes). Actually as an officer I have noticed tjat very few Air Force enlisted salute officers. I guess that is because they are on a fist name basis?

Response by PO2 Daniel Stansbury made Jan 23 at 2018 3:50 PM

2018-01-23T15:50:52-05:00

I would say, when in doubt whip it out. You are a non commissioned officer and you rendering a salute is your duty, one you were trained to do. The officer, no matter the branch, may or may not return the salute and that is their particular choice, you are saluting the uniform and the commission not the person. The person may be an asshole but the commission held represented by the uniform worn is what is to be honored with a proper and sharp salute. It has been my experience that uniformed officers that do not return a proper salute are poor officers. Nevertheless, salute and honor the commission and rank, it's their choice to be a good officer or a poor officer, you are required to perform your duty even if they refuse to honor it. As an aside old timer story. I was on liberty in Tulon France in uniform with other sailors from my ship and with British Navy sailors all of us were non commissioned officers, petty officers. We were all approached coming in the opposite direction by junior officers of the US Navy, US Marine Corps, Italian Navy and British Navy. All of us to a man stopped and saluted all the officers and did not drop the salute until they had all past by. Some returned some did not. We moved on. Then we heard a very load and angry voice coming from the quarter deck of one of the British Ships along with ringing honors informing all that CIC Mediterranean Fleet Departing. 4 very pissed off stars it turns out. He was accompanied by 4 equal ranks from the Italian Navy, the British Navy, The French Navy and the Turkish Navy. As we looked back on our way to booze and babes, we all took great pleasure in seeing those Jr. officers getting a 4 by 4 star ass chewing. Never heard a word more nor were we asked to come back. I suspect it was a lesson learned by guy who were our age but had a higher rank that they just had no respect for. Yeah its a no shitter but a good one.

Response by Sgt Troy Bankert made Jan 23 at 2018 8:41 PM

2018-01-23T20:41:20-05:00

I’ve never heard such a thing...6 years in the Marine Corps...never saw an officer fail to return a salute. I think. if anything, there is a misunderstanding of Marine Corps regulations.

Response by Capt Floyd Wygant made Jan 26 at 2018 8:44 PM

2018-01-26T20:44:20-05:00

Back in the day '74 to '76, I was enlisted 811x0/x1 USAF Security Police. When we went through the SP Academy, one of our instructors was prior service Army. One lesson he imparted was that each branch has similar but not exact customs and courtesies to include saluting. Specifically, gate duty and wearing a hat/cover. When I was at headquarters Strategic Air Command (SAC), in addition to all US service branches, we had international officers. Our rule was always offer the courtesy and don’t fret the reciprocation. Most officers assigned to Offutt adapted to the Air Force tradition as a courtesy to the host base and the security forces rendering the honor, and we the enlisted personnel respected them for their effort.

PS. To avoid dirty looks from gate guards after my commission, my wife always did a friendly wave back to the gate guards who saluted my car with the officer decal. A little understanding on both sides helps everyone.

Response by SPC David Willis made Jan 31 at 2018 1:56 PM

2018-01-31T13:56:43-05:00

I read something a while back about marines eating crayons with their saluting hands and being too embarrassed to show the evidence. Of course when I say read I mean told so cuz, you know, 11Bs cant read too good.

Response by CSM Victor Gomez made Jun 5 at 2018 7:23 PM

2018-06-05T19:23:17-04:00

I was on a multi service installation during one of my assignments. I have never had an officer of any service not return my salute. I can assure you he or she would have never forgotten the encounter. And when I was walking with my commander I also made sure anyone that crossed our path rendered a proper salute.

Response by LtCol George Carlson made Aug 16 at 2018 5:53 PM

2018-08-16T17:53:45-04:00

Back in the "Dark Ages" while attending an Army school we were instructed that while Naval Services customs dictate otherwise, "when in Rome, do as the Romans do." As noted, it is far easier to return salutes of Army and Air Force security guards than to educate two entire services.

Response by SPC Franklin McCoin made Aug 18 at 2018 11:30 AM

2018-08-18T11:30:36-04:00

What is the purpose of the warrant officer?

Response by SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA made Sep 1 at 2018 6:42 AM

2018-09-01T06:42:23-04:00

I noticed this too, but I knew from the Marines in my Airborne School class that they don't salute uncovered.
But, there's no good excuse for the absolutely crappy salutes I would get from a huge number of Army Officers.

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Sep 1 at 2018 7:09 AM

2018-09-01T07:09:05-04:00

I do find that interesting....when I'd been in the BOQ where I was, we had a couple of !arime company grades in with us on installations as well as numerous foreign senior and even a USCG O-5, I think where I was ,sevl of the foreign commissioned were from Europe and other allied countries, I saw tjem all quite frequently where I was, the SPs at the gates by us, always rendered formally!services, all countries, all of us on installations did, always....

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Sep 1 at 2018 7:28 AM

2018-09-01T07:28:31-04:00

I have no idea. I am a retired AF officer. Always happy to get and give a salute and I am always careful to do so.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 25 at 2018 7:10 PM

2018-09-25T19:10:40-04:00

You're stating that Marine Corps officers never salute back. That statement as is, would suggest all encompassing.... as in each and every Marine Corps officer. If there's one branch that holds customs and courtesy to the highest regard, it's the Corps. There's a common denominator to your question and it's not the thousands of Marine Corps officers.... I suggest you consider the circumstances of your salutes not being rendered, because the answer probably lies somewhere within them.

I'm sure I'll piss off all sorts of people, but no branch comes close to the level of professionalism, pride, regard for customs, and courtesies, and warfighting abilities as the Corps. It's something the Army could learn from.

Response by Maj John Johnston made Oct 30 at 2018 8:52 AM

2018-10-30T08:52:46-04:00

That, to all who read this is simply a crock of "you know what." Marine officers return salutes period!

Response by Cpl Bernard Bates made Nov 17 at 2018 5:06 PM

2018-11-17T17:06:17-05:00

I joined the Army 2 weeks after I got out of the Marine Corp. I had to report to the Capt. (CO.) I stood before his desk and reported, but I did not salute. The CO. said aren't you forgetting something. I explained that in the Marine corp We never saluted indoors with a cover (hat) on and we never wore a cover indoors unless we had a Duty Belt on. The army wouldn't let me take basic training so I didn't know I was supposed to salute indoors. I then saluted him and left. I think the reason the Marine Corp and Army have different Regulations is because Marines were originated to be a sea going force to fight on ships, whereas the army was formed to fight on land. Semper Fi.

Response by Capt Jeff S. made Jan 21 at 2019 10:24 PM

2019-01-21T22:24:06-05:00

Marine officers only salute when their head has a cover on it. It is improper etiquette to salute indoors unless on duty wearing a duty belt and cover. If a Marine officer is in civvies, even if they are wearing a baseball cap or cowboy hat, they do not salute. It is considered a breach of military etiquette. Marine Officers wearing covers WILL return your salute. Hope that helps...

Response by COL Jon Lopey made Feb 22 at 2019 10:16 PM

2019-02-22T22:16:33-05:00

I never saw a Marine officer that didn't salute when appropriate. I think Marine officers are very professional and I would be willing to bet your observation was an exception. I served on active-duty in the Marines during the Viet Nam Era and a short time in the reserves and all my commanders and junior officers were outstanding leaders. Marines know how to salute and I think they do it the best of all services. Marines also do not salute if they are indoors unless they are under arms. They also do not have to salute if their arms or hands are occupied or they are performing a duty that precludes the salute. I have been in combat zones where it is discouraged as well due to enemy threats. COL L

Response by Sgt Dan Catlin made Mar 25 at 2019 12:37 PM

2019-03-25T12:37:38-04:00

If indoors or in a vehicle, the officer is probably "uncovered" (not wearing a hat- the exception being if he is "under arms"). The naval services typically do not salute when uncovered. The officer should however return the greeting, and most would acknowledge with a nod of the head if they cannot do so verbally. It is not a slight to you, just protocol.

Response by Cpl Steve Mincey made Apr 1 at 2019 11:58 AM

2019-04-01T11:58:10-04:00

Always did me

Response by Cpl Bruce Hoffman made Apr 4 at 2019 9:30 PM

2019-04-04T21:30:48-04:00

Their suppose to. Any where but a combat zone.

Response by CW5 Jack Gaudet made Apr 5 at 2019 2:26 PM

2019-04-05T14:26:23-04:00

I was corrected by a USMC Staff Sergeant once and never forgot it. There is only one way the salute should be rendered, properly.

Response by Maj Dale Dicks made May 4 at 2019 3:59 PM

2019-05-04T15:59:27-04:00

I'm a retired Marine Officer, and the first thing that comes to mind is the scenario wherein a Marine Officer is in his/her vehicle, and is uncovered, in uniform or in civilian attire. We were taught that we don't salute while uncovered; therefore, we don't salute while in our vehicles, uncovered. It always caused me pause when I found myself in the uncomfortable position of being in an environment outside the Marine Corps not covered, and I could tell by the look or reaction of the sentry, that he/she did not appreciate, nor understand, why I did not return the salute. I usually attempted to diffuse the situation by clearly acknowledging with a hearty, "Good afternoon/morning, how are you today?" But somehow, it never seemed enough. It's been over 20 years now since I retired, and all is not fresh in my mind, but, I believe I have spoken accurately here, and my hope is that at a minimum, I have provided a back-drop for understanding. I further believe I can say, with all confidence, that no group of officers--under the proper circumstances--takes more pride in the tradition of saluting, than those who bear the title, Marine!!

Response by SPC Donald Donovan made May 5 at 2019 3:20 PM

2019-05-05T15:20:16-04:00

Hey. The question was not about when driving. We all know that, the writers question, as I understand it is that he wants to know why Marine officers don’t return salutes. I have never experienced it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2019 4:29 PM

2019-05-08T16:29:40-04:00

All of this applies to all branches

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2019 5:39 PM

2019-05-08T17:39:51-04:00

I don't understand why people keep preaching that the rules and regs are different, it's a really small gesture of respect between service members. It's not like you're really going out of your way. I have a friend who's a marine that when I told him I was planning on submitting my early release to commission package and he said he will never salute an air force officer which might be an infantry thing but there seems to be a subculture of refusing to respect sister service officers

Response by Al Reynolds made May 9 at 2019 1:35 AM

2019-05-09T01:35:53-04:00

In 1967 I was working a traffic detail for Prince Philip on the NATO Base, Keflavik, Iceland.... As the car he was riding in turned left in front of me I gave him a salute. I expected to be ignored. Instead Prince Philip leaned forward in his seat and returned a real snappy salute.... I was gobsmacked...

To this day I have wished him many girl friends and never once thought about criticizing him for rolling his really nice Land Rover at age 87 or something....

Response by SSG Ralph Watkins made May 9 at 2019 1:21 PM

2019-05-09T13:21:25-04:00

My Army unit spent two months assigned to the Marines during Operation Vigilant Resolve. You do not salute Marine officers in a combat zone. After that we got pulled to the Army controlled Green Zone. We were expected to salute all of the time. It was nuts. We still had insurgents & bombers in the GZ/IZ yet. The Army tried it's hardest to believe it was garrison in there. Those of us who had been with the Marines would arrogantly salute Army officers & say "Semper fi, Sir" When asked why we say that, we'd say there was none of this saluting BS with the Marines. One day a large group of VIPs came into our area. 2-stars all the way down. The first one into our area was a Marine major. I didn't salute. You'd swear from the Army people like I just kicked a baby or something. The Marine major gave me a big smile & thanked me for my sanity. The Army is too much about showing off & less about being warriors. I will take the Marines in combat any day. They are much better at fighting than saluting. By the way, I always prided myself with having the utmost military bearing but the Army has gotten nuts with formalities.

Response by LTC Russ Smith made May 11 at 2019 11:30 AM

2019-05-11T11:30:59-04:00

I was an enlisted Marine for 3 years, an Army NCO for 3, and an Army officer for a little over 20. I found eff listed Matinees to ve generally disrespectful and contemptuous of officers from other services, refusing to salute, state getting of the day, call us Sir, etc. W never did this when I was an enlisted Marine/ 0311. I am fine with the Marines' elitism and still buy in to it even today. Part of that elitism, when I was a Marine, was executing customs and courtesies with precision and aplomb.

Response by Cpl Mark Oresko made Jun 8 at 2019 4:24 AM

2019-06-08T04:24:09-04:00

Google when Marines are suppose to salute. You’ll be amazed at the silly little details that make each branch unique. The Marine saluting might just be doing you a favor so that you’re not drawing extra equally felt awkwardness or unwanted attention to him for having to return a salute they’re not supposed to be giving. Good job trying to find out this answer, but poor job on the title choice that Marines NEVER salute back! Oh and don’t always expect someone’s salute to be as erect as yours. You’ll just end up finding yourself frequently dissatisfied.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2019 10:40 AM

2019-06-19T10:40:31-04:00

I once had a KATSU private salute me while I was standing at the urinal. Apparently they are taught to salute any officer any where any time. Guy just stood there saluting until I finished my business and returned his salute. One of the most bizarre situations I've ever encountered.

Response by Sgt Peter Schlesiona made Jun 24 at 2019 11:41 AM

2019-06-24T11:41:21-04:00

Marines (officers and enlisted) do NOT salute when uncovered, when in civvies - even if wearing a hat (a “cover”), when indoors (since Marines do not wear a cover indoors unless under arms). Other than those situations, Marines always salute. It’s nothing more than Naval Service custom and tradition.

Response by Sgt Peter Schlesiona made Aug 6 at 2019 2:13 PM

2019-08-06T14:13:06-04:00

Absolute nonsense that Marine officers do not salute back. What you are probably witnessing is the Naval protocol that Marines do not salute indoors and do not salute when uncovered (not wearing a hat). The only exception - for both saluting and being covered indoors is if they are under arms. As a sergeant, I frequently stood what we called “staff duty NCO” on weekends. I wore the “duty belt” and that was considered being under arms. Whenever I walked indoors, I did not remove my cover and did salute where normally required. Frankly, I stated out of buildings like battalion HQ until I was sure most of the officers were gone for the day of I’d have been saluting every 3 seconds or so.

Response by Capt Helen Slack made Aug 6 at 2019 10:14 PM

2019-08-06T22:14:23-04:00

I was stationed as a liaison officer to the army in Korea as a Marine officer. I adapted to army customs and rendered salutes according to army traditions. The army and Air Force traditions are very different than navy services .

Response by SP5 Gary Smith made Aug 6 at 2019 11:51 PM

2019-08-06T23:51:57-04:00

I loved saluting officers. Especially on the perimeter.

Response by Capt Daniel Goodman made Aug 7 at 2019 3:34 AM

2019-08-07T03:34:12-04:00

God knows, where I was, we had a few in the BOQ by me, they always did...actually, watching them taught me to actually do it halfway right, ya know? I could never quite master how they did it, exactly, however, God knows I watched them doing it enough....

Response by MAJ Ronnie Reams made Aug 7 at 2019 1:29 PM

2019-08-07T13:29:01-04:00

Retired Amy that goes to SJAFB for meds and shopping. As I come to gate, I stop and put transmission in N and hand the SP my ID, we do not have CACs, he/she runs it through hand held computer thingie and returns with right hand and raises hand to salute, I retrieve card with my left hand, return salute with right hand and give greeting of day, place ID in console and put car in D and move on. Works for me.

Response by Cpl Bernard Bates made Aug 7 at 2019 4:38 PM

2019-08-07T16:38:14-04:00

When I first joined the army after being in the Marine Corp 4yrs, I reported to the CO of the company It was in his office. I walked in stood at attention, we talked I did an about face started to walk out. I heard "BATES" aren't you forgetting something. I did an about face stood at attention and explained that I took Boot Camp in the Marine Corp and was taught not to Salute indoors without a cover (Hat) on. The Army wouldn't let me take Basic training. I Proudly saluted did an about face and walked out the door. The only time a Marine wore his hat indoors was when he was wearing a Duty Belt. I remember going to services in the chapel at Bootcamp. The DI. who marched us their wore a duty Belt and did NOT remove his cover he stood in the back of the Chapel servicers were over. Then we fell out got in formation and were marched back to the area. Semper Fi.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2019 7:46 PM

2019-08-07T19:46:06-04:00

I have routinely not been saluted by marine enlisted. Marines, correct me if I'm wrong and I may be, but I feel as if there is a disrespect here that is purposeful. Marines are proud, and they should be, but this attitude spills over to how they view other services...as inferior to their corps. Now, all of this experience with Marines happened as a 2LT, so that may have been some of it.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Aug 7 at 2019 8:04 PM

2019-08-07T20:04:40-04:00

Services have some differences in saluting protocols. Naval Department personnel do not salute while driving. Hence the failure of Marines to return a salute while passing a guard point. Hope my Department of the Army and Air Force counterparts return your salute properly.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 14 at 2019 1:53 PM

2019-08-14T13:53:12-04:00

As a young Corporal I was “gently” reminded by a young Lt to salute. The Lt was working with a squad doing patrol drills between two barracks. I thought I was being respectful by swinging wide around their patrol formation to not disturb them. Hehehehe. Nothing like him charging over and reminding me of the courtesy. Never happened again. Lol

Oh yeah, just reminds me of the fun we had when I was infantry and the whole platoon would line up along a sidewalk with enough distance for the Lt to return 33 salutes.

Response by Maj David J Carter made Sep 10 at 2019 6:06 PM

2019-09-10T18:06:34-04:00

If someone renders me a salute I return the salute, people make way too much of saluting and not saluting it's a custom and curtosey nothing more.

Response by GySgt Richard James made Oct 14 at 2019 10:45 PM

2019-10-14T22:45:58-04:00

All Marine Corps Commissioned and Warrant Officers have returned salutes throughout my 20 plus years on active duty.

Response by GySgt Thomas Lieb made Oct 20 at 2019 11:52 AM

2019-10-20T11:52:47-04:00

I have never, ever experienced a Marine Corps officer failing to return my salute, quickly, crisply and is n proper form so. Don’t understand the wuestion

Response by Capt Ed Turner made Nov 14 at 2019 3:34 PM

2019-11-14T15:34:23-05:00

??
All Marine Corps officers render and return salutes. And do so with pride and pleasure.
Unless something has changed since I left active duty.
The exception would be when deployed in a field situation; reason being one does not wish to be appropriately identified and put on the top of an enemy sniper's preference list.

Response by MSG Richard Loden made Nov 22 at 2019 8:50 PM

2019-11-22T20:50:18-05:00

I don’t know where you got the idea that Marine officers don’t return salutes. I have saluted many Marine officer. All returned my salute with one exception and he had both hand full of books. He did acknowledge my salute verbally.

Response by PFC John Nobert made Dec 20 at 2019 2:43 AM

2019-12-20T02:43:36-05:00

I’m from a military family which started with my father and continues through two of my children. My brother in law retired a Navy O-4. I was never in a position to have to salute him. He attended one of my daughter’s graduation ceremonies which happened to occur on a Naval installation. I laughed quite a bit afterwards when my sister watched all of those sailors salute their car.

He passed away a couple of years ago, but she lives near Camp Pendleton. Her car still gets saluted a lot.

Response by SSgt Derick Brock made Jan 14 at 2020 10:17 AM

2020-01-14T10:17:13-05:00

I was in the the USAF in a joint exercise run by the Army somewhere in a desert in the mid-80s. On Sunday morning coming from church services I passed an Army General and his staff walking toward the Chapel. I did not salute as I was in civvies at the time. A Major on his staff proceeded to educate me and then I received a second briefing later in the day from my Captain. Never made that mistake again.

Response by Capt Michael Love made Feb 25 at 2020 8:38 AM

2020-02-25T08:38:43-05:00

Marines and even the lowly Navy never salute when indoors as in a car

Response by SGT Kyle Bickley made Mar 9 at 2020 7:26 PM

2020-03-09T19:26:25-04:00

If a salute is render from an EM it is required for the officer to render one back! Unless in combat zones neither should be saluting at all! I'd call an officer out if one did it deliberately! Not saluting. It's a sign of disrespect! If an officer is so arrogant not to salute troops perhaps they need to find another country to serve. If a general is willing to salute his troops, lower grade officers best follow his example!

Response by Cpl Arvin Konrad Madison made Mar 10 at 2020 10:41 AM

2020-03-10T10:41:17-04:00

Marines also don't salute when wear bonnie covers. I have been asked by an US Army officer why we don't salute. I respectfully explained that Marines while wearing bonnie covers do not salute, but I still gave the proper greeting of the day.

Response by Cpl Ed Hines made Mar 10 at 2020 2:34 PM

2020-03-10T14:34:21-04:00

Salutes sound important to you.

Response by SP6 John R Diligard Jr made Apr 29 at 2020 1:31 AM

2020-04-29T01:31:54-04:00

I was told many moons ago you salute the commission not the individual, if the car that is coming through my gate had a blue strip on the bumper or windshield I saluted, sometimes it was the Officers wife.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2020 6:48 AM

2020-05-10T06:48:37-04:00

As an E5 reservist I took my wife to an inland Navy base in Calif. I cannot remember the name of it. Anyhow the guard waved us in with a snappy salute chest high. I asked him what kinda salute that was. He told me it was a midshipman's salute. I do not know if it was regulation but it sure looked good.

Response by SMSgt Bob W. made May 10 at 2020 1:46 PM

2020-05-10T13:46:43-04:00

Another service quirk which I like. Rules for rendering a salute should be the same for all services. The services need to come together and standardize requirements/regulations which are common to all services.

Response by Cpl Jerry Allison made Jul 22 at 2020 12:31 PM

2020-07-22T12:31:08-04:00

Most Marine officers I had the privilege of serving with (at least the good ones) didn't want to deal with saluting. In the Infantry most officers referred to it as a "sniper check".

Response by 1SG Frank Boynton made Oct 24 at 2020 10:55 PM

2020-10-24T22:55:00-04:00

Marines are a different breed. I served 20 years in the Army. If you render a salute, an officer is required to return it. The only time they were exempt was when you reported for pay.

Response by GySgt Herman Poe made Dec 29 at 2020 1:53 AM

2020-12-29T01:53:11-05:00

Sounds like BS. Damn right they return the salute. As an mp in the Corps I witnessed thousands return my salute while on gate duty.
Gysgt

Response by SFC Kenneth Hunnell made May 2 at 2021 9:37 PM

2021-05-02T21:37:49-04:00

Never say never, as I have seen they always return a salute in full uniform, as I remember, the head gear is part of the uniform

Response by Cpl Vic Burk made Mar 8 at 2023 8:32 AM

2023-03-08T08:32:02-05:00

The only time I can ever remember a Marine Officer not returning a salute is when their hands were full and the couldn't return it. Other branches even, when I saluted them it was rare that they didn't salute back.