Do I need to render a salute to an officer when my hands are occupied?

TSgt James Warfield - If you re-read the posting, it was the CSM that demanded they drop everything and salute, not the CPT. That being said, no reason that they couldn't shift the mug to the other hand and hold the binder under their arm as you stated.

Maj Gail Lofdahl - hadn't thought about it in years but I still do the same, born out for almost 30 years and still try to keep my right hand free

I would like to just say that this LTC might not have the best interest of an enlistedman in mind here. Firstly no. Article 117 of the UCMJ paves the way for the exception of rendering a salute (safety, performing a task, etc) which covers carrying something like equipment in both hands as being an exception.

Hand something to the CSM so HE can't salute, though? Sorry "Sir" but I'm afraid I'd be a little more concerned with upsetting the CSM and getting HIM in trouble. I've generally found that when you have your CSM's back, he has yours. Never met an officer without "Warrant" in front of it where that was true.

If you're carrying something heavy...no....like in a work crew but a folder and cup of coffee which can moved...yes.

Common sense is sometimes so rare it almost qualifies as a super power.

SFC Kelly Fuerhoff I was at the hospital and on crutches when a butter bar went off on me for not saluting. Unknown to him there was a Brigadier General walking up behind him. After the General got through I promise that LT never did that again. There are always exceptions to every rule! Even in the military.

forbidden? No. I never was told or heard that till just now.

COL Guy Campion a greeting back and I have the common sense to know he can’t salute due to his hands are full.

Capt George Wolf - Good one.....but as much as I LOVE coffee, it would have been in my other hand.

I detect maybe a slight bit of anger here. I'm assuming some unit spaced themselves out by about 20 meters and walked past you single-file causing you to keep your salute up for 20 mins?

SGT Michael Wells III - I got chew out by an ensign for not rendering a salute when I had books under both arms. Courtesy and understanding works both ways.