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As the command chief of the 316th Wing here, I am constantly struck by the dedication and professionalism of our Joint Base Andrews community. Every day, you all do amazing, hard work... and you all make it look so easy!
Despite how unique our base is, we are connected to something bigger: The U.S. military. No matter what base you serve at, we are all uniquely shaped by our shared traditions, from saluting to marching. These traditions are part of our collective identity, and shape who we are as a group and how we behave.
But there’s one military tradition that happens every day on most bases around the world: the playing of “Reveille” and “Retreat.”
“Reveille,” played at 7 a.m. each morning marks the beginning of the duty day. It is a moment that calls for respect and reflection. “Retreat,” played at 5 p.m., marks the end of the duty day and provides another opportunity for us to honor our flag.
I urge everyone to observe the appropriate customs and courtesies during this time, not only to honor the U.S. flag and our Nation, but also for safety of others on the road. Members should follow their service-specific guidance, if different from Air Force guidance.
If you are driving, safely pull over to the side of the road until the last note of “To The Colors.” If you are outdoors in uniform, stand at the position of “parade rest” during the bugle call of “Reveille,” facing the flag or music. Stand at attention and render a salute during “To The Colors,” which immediately follows the bugle call.
During “Retreat,” the same courtesies apply: drivers should pull over and stop, those outside should render the appropriate courtesies for the national anthem. Members outdoors in uniform should render a salute, while members not in uniform should remove any non-religious headdress and place their right hand over their heart.
Additionally, “Taps” is played at 9 p.m., serving as a poignant reminder to reflect on the day and honor those who have served. Service members do not need to stand at attention or salute during this period.
These moments are not just routines; they are daily opportunities for us all to reflect on our service and honor the sacrifices of those who have come before us. When we participate in “Reveille” and “Retreat,” we reinforce the respect and camaraderie that define our community. We honor our Nation, and those who serve it.
As your command chief, I want to emphasize how proud I am to serve alongside each of you. Let us continue to uphold these customs and courtesies, fostering a culture of respect that reflects our commitment to one another and to our mission. Together, we can embody the values that connect us in the long-standing heritage of our U.S. military.
| Date Taken: | 11.13.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 11.13.2024 14:42 |
| Story ID: | 485192 |
| Location: | JOINT BASE ANDREWS, MARYLAND, US |
| Web Views: | 7 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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