Military customs, courtesies play big with ORI evaluators Published Aug. 19, 2008 By Master Sgt. F.B. Toledo 30th Force Support Squadron VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- How the 30th Space Wing performs its mission will weigh heavily during the operational readiness inspection this September. Military customs and courtesies communicate the professionalism and commitment of the individuals who make up the wing. Customs and courtesies will be evaluated across the base and ensure proper respect for military members and build the foundation for self-discipline. They are acts of respect and courtesy when dealing with other people and they have evolved as a result of the need for order, as well as the mutual respect and sense of fraternity that exists among military personnel. Violations of customs and courtesies have been annotated in recent ORI reports from other bases. These include failure to render salutes, failure to pay proper respect to the national anthem, walking with hands in pockets, and drinking and eating while walking in uniform. As ORI time gets closer, wing leadership reminds all personnel to set and enforce all standards, including customs and courtesies. Making a positive first impression is very important when you're dealing with inspectors and something as simple as standing when an inspector is in your area shows respect to the position. It doesn't matter if you outrank the inspector or not -- everyone should stand up to show respect. Members need to properly salute officers when they are out and use proper greetings. Another common area the inspectors will be looking for is how Airmen respond to noncommissioned officers and how NCOs respond to senior NCOs. All members should show their professionalism by addressing each other by their rank and last name. The inspectors also annotate how wing personnel show respect to the flag during retreat and that all members ensure they are following the proper procedures. All members must come to attention and salute the flag during retreat. Retreat is at 4:30 p.m. every day at Vandenberg and signifies the end of the duty day. The ORI will present some unique situations and some customs and courtesies will be waived during the contingency exercise portion. For example, while deployed to the simulated contingency area, saluting officers within the combat zone isn't done. During a contingency exercise, you don't typically salute officers, but other procedures still apply. If you have any questions on military customs and courtesies, please contact the 30th Force Support Squadron customer service section at 606-2276.