Salute

A salute is a formal gesture used to display respect or deference.

While most people associate salutes with military or law enforcement, many civilian groups use them too. Organizations like the Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, and the Salvation Army use formal salutes in their ceremonies. In daily life, ordinary civilians use informal salutes to acknowledge others. This might include a simple hand wave or a tip of a hat.

In professional settings, a salute serves as a structured way to honor rank and authority.

There are many different mechanisms for performing a salute. The most common method is the hand salute, where the right hand moves toward the head.

However, salutes can also involve body gestures, hoisting flags, or removing headgear. Soldiers carrying swords use a specific two-step gesture. They first raise the sword to the level of the neck. Then, they slash the blade downward toward the ground. This downward motion is a traditional act of submission.

Small arms, such as rifles, also have specific saluting methods. One common method is called "present arms." In this movement, the rifle is held vertically in front of the chest. The muzzle points up, and the hands hold the stock as if ready to fire. A less formal version is the "order arms salute." In this case, the sentry touches the rifle near the muzzle with a flattened left hand. There is also a ceremonial "three-volley salute" used during military funerals.

This involves riflemen firing three blank cartridges into the air in unison.

Historians have several theories about the origins of the modern hand salute. Some military manuals suggest it began in France with medieval knights. Knights would raise their visors to show they were friendly and not carrying weapons. Other historians point to ancient Rome, where a salute called "salutatio militaris" was practiced. A third theory suggests the salute grew from the custom of removing headgear. During the American Revolution, British soldiers saluted by removing their hats. As headgear became more complex in the 18th and 19th centuries, the act evolved into a simpler touch of the hat brim.

Different nations and branches of service follow distinct protocols. The British Army uses a salute with the palm facing outward. In contrast, the Polish Armed Forces use a two-finger salute.

The Russian military requires the palm to face down against the temple. In the Hellenic Army, the palm faces down and fingers point toward the coat of arms. Naval salutes often differ because of the environment. For example, Queen Victoria required sailors to turn their palms downward because their hands were often covered in tar and pitch.

In the Commonwealth of Nations, such as Australia and New Zealand, salutes follow specific rules. In these countries, the salute is given to the commission held by an officer. The Australian Army salute involves the arm taking a long path up and a short path down. However, the Royal Australian Navy takes the shortest path up and down. Protocol dictates that junior members must salute first. The senior member is then obliged to return the compliment.

In certain combat areas, known as the Forward Edge of the Battle Area, no salutes are given to avoid drawing attention.

Salutes are vital to military transitions and ceremonies. They are used during change of command ceremonies to honor new leaders.

The three-volley salute used at funerals has deep historical roots. It originated from an old European tradition where battles were halted to care for the wounded. Three shots were fired to signal that the group was ready to re-engage. Today, these various forms of saluting maintain a sense of discipline and respect across different cultures and eras.