Military Customs and Courtesies

There are many traditions that have been established over the long history of the military services. These many traditions can be broken into numerous customs and courtesies. A custom is a way of acting in a manner that has been continued constantly over a long period of time. It is almost like a law. A courtesy is a way of displaying good manners and politeness when dealing with other people. Military courtesy conveys respect both up and down the chain of command. One commonly recognized custom and courtesy is the military salute. The salute has been an exchange of greetings since the age of chivalry. During these ages the knights were mounted with steel armor that covered their body completely …show more content…

Conduct in such a situation is then governed by customs of the service. Customs are closely linked with many traditions. A custom is a usual way of acting in given circumstances. It is a practice repeated over a period of time it will gain the force of law or an unwritten rule. Courtesy is an act or verbal expression of consideration or respect for others. When a person acts with courtesy toward another, the courtesy is likely to be returned. When courtesy is not giving to ones peers and or subordinates they are highly likely to receive none in return. We are courteous to our seniors because we are aware of their greater responsibilities and authority. Seniors are courteous to us juniors because they aware of their important contributions to the mission at hand. How ever when a leader is not a senior but simply out ranks the seniors and demands the courteousness and or respect issues from seniors to leadership arise. Respect is never given, but earned. To be well respected by ones peers and or seniors one must first give respect and courteousness to those who have given as well as earned it. With out first giving one shall not receive the same treatment good or bad, moral will fall. In the military service, where personnel live and work in close quarters, courtesy is practiced both on and off duty. Military courtesy is important to everyone in the military. If you know and practice