Customs and courtesies aren’t just about being polite and keeping Air Force traditions going. There are many facets and guidelines to follow while proudly wearing the Air Force uniform.
“Customs and courtesies start with the simple act of respect and courtesy, yet stretch across from the professionalism we display while in uniform to the way we carry ourselves out of uniform,” said Staff Sgt. Israel Revuelta, 86th Airlift Wing protocol NCO.
Etiquette is defined as a common, everyday courtesy. Minding your p’s and q’s, showing up on time and presenting yourself in a professional manner are some ways to maintain customs and courtesies.
“Customs and courtesies are the building blocks to the level of professionalism we display on a daily basis. They are the characteristics that distinguish us as professionals to not only our nation, but the many countries we work hand-in-hand with,” Revuelta said.
Today, customs and courtesies ensure a solid foundation of self-discipline in all ranks, from airman basic to general. “Our customs and courtesies reflect the unique nature of our profession and guide significant aspects of our behavior.
They emphasize our strong bond with other military members, committed to the profession of arms, reinforce good order and discipline, and promote loyalty to the chain of command — both up and down,” said Chief Master Sgt. James Morris, 86th AW command chief. “Customs and courtesies play an important role in our daily life and culture, enabling us to be the effective Air Force we are today.”
As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, expect to hear the familiar tunes of the American and German national anthems being played for all to hear as the colors are retired for retreat.
A few things to keep in mind while in uniform when hearing the music bellowing over the loud speaker: Stand at attention and salute on the first note of the music and hold until the last note.
If driving, safely pull over and remain seated in silence. All sporting or physical training activities, unless it’s an official physical training test, halt with proper honors to the flag.
“The respects that are shown to our flag demonstrates the commitment we have to our nation and what it stands for, to include the display of homage for those who have served, continue to serve and have fallen to keep the flag raised,” Revuelta said.
Showing respect for all military members is as much a part of courtesies as paying respects to our nation’s flag.
A hand salute is a form of greeting exchanged between those in the armed forces. If in uniform, it is required that you salute when you encounter any person or situation entitled to the salute.
“Not only is it showing respect for the person standing in front of you, it’s showing respect to all those who came before that person,” said Master Sgt. William Sanders, 86th Comptroller Squadron flight chief.
Sometimes, all people need is a little reminder of why it’s important to be respectful of the uniform we wear. Keeping up with customs and courtesies can make a world of difference in the work place; it showcases a sense of professionalism to those around us.
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News for the Ramstein, Kaiserslautern, Landstuhl & Baumholder military communities in Germany 
Customs and courtesies aren’t just about being polite and keeping Air Force traditions going. There are many facets and guidelines to follow while proudly wearing the Air Force uniform.
“Customs and courtesies start with the simple act of respect and courtesy, yet stretch across from the professionalism we display while in uniform to the way we carry ourselves out of uniform,” said Staff Sgt. Israel Revuelta, 86th Airlift Wing protocol NCO.
Etiquette is defined as a common, everyday courtesy. Minding your p’s and q’s, showing up on time and presenting yourself in a professional manner are some ways to maintain customs and courtesies.
“Customs and courtesies are the building blocks to the level of professionalism we display on a daily basis. They are the characteristics that distinguish us as professionals to not only our nation, but the many countries we work hand-in-hand with,” Revuelta said.
Today, customs and courtesies ensure a solid foundation of self-discipline in all ranks, from airman basic to general. “Our customs and courtesies reflect the unique nature of our profession and guide significant aspects of our behavior.
They emphasize our strong bond with other military members, committed to the profession of arms, reinforce good order and discipline, and promote loyalty to the chain of command — both up and down,” said Chief Master Sgt. James Morris, 86th AW command chief. “Customs and courtesies play an important role in our daily life and culture, enabling us to be the effective Air Force we are today.”
As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, expect to hear the familiar tunes of the American and German national anthems being played for all to hear as the colors are retired for retreat.
A few things to keep in mind while in uniform when hearing the music bellowing over the loud speaker: Stand at attention and salute on the first note of the music and hold until the last note.
If driving, safely pull over and remain seated in silence. All sporting or physical training activities, unless it’s an official physical training test, halt with proper honors to the flag.
“The respects that are shown to our flag demonstrates the commitment we have to our nation and what it stands for, to include the display of homage for those who have served, continue to serve and have fallen to keep the flag raised,” Revuelta said.
Showing respect for all military members is as much a part of courtesies as paying respects to our nation’s flag.
A hand salute is a form of greeting exchanged between those in the armed forces. If in uniform, it is required that you salute when you encounter any person or situation entitled to the salute.
“Not only is it showing respect for the person standing in front of you, it’s showing respect to all those who came before that person,” said Master Sgt. William Sanders, 86th Comptroller Squadron flight chief.
Sometimes, all people need is a little reminder of why it’s important to be respectful of the uniform we wear. Keeping up with customs and courtesies can make a world of difference in the work place; it showcases a sense of professionalism to those around us.