CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Extending proper customs and courtesies are the easiest things we can do in our day to day interactions.
Simply saying yes and no, sir or ma'am, thank you and may I help you? Standing when someone enters your work center or a customer service area and saying thank you go a long way. We learned these things as children and also in basic military training.
When you answer the telephone, identify your organization or section and give your name. This let's the caller know if they have reached the right number.
Remember, when engaged in a conversation with higher ranking members, stand and be professional. The senior ranking member should always be on the right while walking, officer or enlisted. It is our responsibility to police each other along with policing ourselves.
If you see someone in or out of uniform doing something they shouldn't be doing, you are obligated to approach the individual and make the correction on the spot. Be professional and point out the inappropriate behavior or discrepancy and move on.
Eating or drinking, talking on cell phones or wearing Bluetooth devices while walking in uniform are not authorized. There are appropriate areas for all of these things. You are only authorized to use hands-free cell phones while driving on the installation.
Paying tribute to our flag in the afternoons by standing at attention and saluting sharply shows much pride. Don't be the one running to the vehicle or into a building to avoid the national anthem. If the music starts playing and you are exiting a building, continue out of the building and stand at attention and execute a sharp salute! Don't stand inside the doors and wait for the music to end. Also, while sitting in your vehicle during the national anthem, sit quietly and turn down your music and reflect upon the day and the meaning of retreat. Retreat only takes a few minutes. We are ambassadors of the Air Force and we should uphold the highest standards at all times.
As Air Force members, we represent an elite group of people and we must remember that at all times. When we are off base in our uniforms, we have to be very aware that we are being watched by our civilian counterparts. We must maintain our professionalism at all times because we are a reflection of more than 300,000 Air Force members.
Many times I'm approached and complimented on my uniform and thanked for my service. That makes me feel proud and appreciated. That's why I am always on my best behavior in and out of uniform because I don't want anyone to ever get the impression that we are not professional. Simply put, remember to always render proper customs and courtesies and be the professional that you know you should be. It's not hard and it all starts with showing respect and upholding the traditions of our professional organization.
If you have any questions about where to find more information on customs and courtesies, consult your Professional Development Guide AF Pamphlet 36-2241. Another good source of information is your first sergeant and supervisors.