MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- As members of the finest joint-fighting force the world has ever known, we are bound by a shared commitment to professionalism, discipline, and mutual respect. These values are the foundation of our military service and are visibly demonstrated every day through customs and courtesies. They are the simple, yet powerful, actions that define our identity and unite us as one very lethal team!
The commitment to our customs as foundational principles is at the heart of restoring warrior ethos across the Joint Force. This restoration focusses on more than getting back to basics, but the deliberate pursuit of Excellence in All We Do and re-energizing the core of our profession at arms. Our customs are our courtesies, the universal language that reinforces the chain of command and communicates respect across all services and ranks. Adherence to these standards is a direct reflection of our discipline and is clearly outlined in guidance, such as Air Force Instruction 1-1, Air Force Standards.
Adhering to customs is a culture of respect we must actively cultivate. When a junior service member is speaking with a senior officer or non-commissioned officer, the simple, required act of respect is to stand. Addressing senior leaders by “Sir” or “Ma’am” or their appropriate rank should be the rule and not the exception. Doing so is in deference to their rank and experience and the immense responsibilities they carry. It is a fundamental courtesy that acknowledges the structure and discipline that make our joint force effective.
We also share a powerful moment of unity each day on our military installations with the playing of the national anthem. Hearing the first notes of "Retreat" followed by the national anthem connects all service members to a shared tradition. This is a moment for everyone to embrace. According to regulations, when outdoors, all personnel should stop their activity and face the flag or the direction of the music and render the appropriate salute. If in a vehicle, the driver is expected to pull over safely and stop until the last note has played. This brief pause is a profound tribute to our flag, our nation, and every service member—Soldier, Marine, Sailor, Airman, or Guardian—who has defended it.
Finally, let’s not forget the most fundamental of all military courtesies: the salute. Rendering a crisp, proud salute to a senior officer or a passing staff car is the quickest and most visible sign of a disciplined service member. It is a gesture that transcends service branches and signifies our shared respect for leadership and our profession of arms.
These are only a few examples, and whether active, Guard or Reserve, government civilian or contractor, or even military family members, there are customs and courtesies on military installations that apply to us all. The responsibility to uphold military standards belongs to each of us, and we are all accountable to one another. A quiet, professional reminder is an effective way to remind someone of our shared standards. Always remember that our customs are our courtesies; caring about our profession and demonstrating a commitment to excellence are hallmarks of a truly disciplined force.
We are members of the United States Air Force. We do not aspire to meet the minimum; we train, lead and execute to exceed the standard. The uniform we wear carries the weight of those who stood watch before us. Airmen who built this force on discipline, innovation, and decisive action. We are torch bearers of that legacy. Let us lead the way and let our unwavering adherence to customs and courtesies be a clear sign of our professionalism and our readiness to answer our Nation's call.