← All FMF Flashcard Decks

Marine Corps Customs, Courtesies, and Traditions Flashcards

7 cards from real FMF practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Marine Corps Customs, Courtesies, and Traditions flashcards as text
  1. What is the historical origin of the Mameluke sword carried by Marine officers?

    Answer: It was presented to Lt. Presley O'Bannon following the Battle of Derna in 1805

    The Mameluke sword traces its origin to 1805 when Lt. Presley O'Bannon received a similar sword from a Tripolitan prince after victory at the Battle of Derna during the First Barbary War.

  2. When the command 'Attention on Deck' is called, what is the required response from all personnel in the space?

    Answer: All personnel immediately come to the position of attention

    When 'Attention on Deck' is called, all personnel present immediately assume the position of attention as a sign of respect for the senior entering.

  3. What is the proper verbal form of address for a Warrant Officer?

    Answer: 'Warrant Officer [last name]' or 'Sir/Ma'am'

    Warrant Officers are properly addressed as 'Warrant Officer' followed by their last name, or simply as 'Sir' or 'Ma'am.'

  4. When two Marines of different ranks approach a door simultaneously, what does military courtesy dictate?

    Answer: The senior enters first while the junior holds the door open

    Military courtesy dictates that the senior person enters first, with the junior holding the door as a gesture of deference and respect.

  5. What position does the command 'Parade Rest' place Marines in during a formation?

    Answer: Feet shoulder-width apart, hands clasped behind the back at the small of the back, eyes front, silent

    'Parade Rest' places Marines with feet shoulder-width apart, hands clasped behind the back, eyes forward, and requires silence — a relaxed but still formal position.

  6. What is the purpose of the 'morning colors' ceremony conducted on Marine Corps installations?

    Answer: To formally raise the National Colors and begin the official duty day

    Morning colors is the ceremony in which the National Colors are raised to the playing of the National Anthem or 'To the Colors,' formally commencing the duty day.

  7. What does each element of the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor emblem symbolize?

    Answer: The Marine Corps' service to the nation (eagle), worldwide presence (globe), and naval/amphibious ties (anchor)

    The Eagle represents service to the nation, the Globe signifies worldwide service and presence, and the Anchor reflects the Marine Corps' close naval relationship and amphibious heritage.