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| Social
Etiquette and Protocol Courtesy
to the Flag, National Anthem, and Marine Corps Hymn The Flag (“Colors”) and the National Anthem are a ever present part of our military environment and our life. Stand in respect for the Colors, during the National Anthem (with your right and over your heart), during the national anthems or other countries and the Marine Corps Hymn. Also, stand when Colors passing in review are six paces before you and remain standing until they are six paces past you. Stand at the first note of “Ruffles and Flourishes” (played when a General Officer is present). If in doubt, follow the lead of others around you. If
you are on Base when the Flag is being raised or lowered, stop driving
or walking, and wait respectfully until the music/bugle stops. Common
Courtesy RSVP
is French for “Please Reply,” so a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer
should be given to the hostess approximately 48 hours after you
receive the invitation. She
needs to know that you received the invitation and how many will be
attending, so she can complete her plans for the event.
Do
not forget to thank your hostess – both verbally before leaving the
party – and in writing no more than a week after attending an event,
being a house guest, or receiving a gift.
Your note does not need to be long, but should be written on a
nice card or stationary. NEVER
surprise a hostess at the last minute with extra guests.
If you want to bring others, call the hostess, and let her
decide if she can include them or not.
Take
a small hostess gift when you are invited for dinner, an overnight, or
a special celebration. (Ideas:
candy, flowers, wine, or gifts from the oven or garden)
INTRODUCTIONS
are also important. The
rule is normally to introduce first someone older, more senior,
female, etc. “General
Smith, I would like to introduce you to my mother, Barbara Jones.” Don’s
be too late….if you cannot be on time, please call the hostess.
It is most important to be on time for a reception, parade,
luncheon, or dinner. The
BEST way to remain on the guest list is to Be
On Time, BUT Never Be Early, and Leave Before Your Wear Out Your
WELCOME! What
Should I Wear? What to wear varies with the area of the country, time of the day, and the type of event. Here are some general suggestions:
Military Ceremonies Marine
Corps Birthday Ball
-
a special formal evening of tradition held every year around Nov. 10.
Usually begins with a dinner or cocktail hour.
When “Attention” is sounded, everyone rises and acts very
respectful. Do not talk,
drink, smoke, or lean on the table. The
honor escort will come in first, then the guest of honor, followed by
the playing of the National Anthem and the presentation of the Birthday
Cake. The Commandant’s message
is read, then the first piece of cake is given to the youngest Marine
and the second piece to the oldest Marine present.
This concludes the ceremony and the dancing/party usually begins. Dining
In
– another formal event with husband and wife.
This is a very structured dinner where the “President of the
Dining In” makes all the rules; so even if you want to go to the
bathroom, your Marine must ask permission for you.
This night is filled with many toasts and many fines paid to
“Mr. Vice.” It really
is a great experience and the fines go to a local charity.
So, take a few extra dollars! Mess
Night
– this is an evening for only Marines to promote social camaraderie.
It has a cocktail hour, dinner, and toasts. Bosses’
Night
– when Marines get together with their peers and senior Marines for a
rare social evening. It is
a time to get to know your Marine boss outside of the office. (No
Spouses) Wetting
Down
– a promotion party that can be held at home or at the club.
Wives and girlfriends can be invited for this celebration.
Sometimes the Marine promoted is ‘wet down’ with the liquid
of his choice. Hail
and Farewell
– a get-together to say GOOD-BYE to those leaving the military unit an
HELLO to those joining the unit. Try
to attend the Veterans Day Parades or any Military Parade and shoe your
support to those who have served before you, or who are now serving! Just a Few More “Nice To Knows" When there is a receiving line at a Marine Corps function, ladies go first. Shake hands with everyone in the line except the adjutant or aide.
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