Marine Corps Customs, Courtesies, and Traditions Flashcards

At what approximate distance should a Marine initiate a hand salute to an approaching officer?

Answer: 6 paces

Marines render the hand salute when the senior is approximately 6 paces away, or as soon as recognition is made.

When indoors, under which circumstance is a Marine required to render a hand salute?

Answer: When reporting to an officer or at an indoor ceremony

Salutes are generally not rendered indoors except when reporting to an officer or during specified indoor ceremonies.

What is the proper greeting when a Marine passes a senior officer outdoors?

Answer: A hand salute accompanied by a verbal greeting such as 'Good morning, Sir/Ma'am'

Outdoors, Marines render a hand salute accompanied by a verbal greeting to acknowledge senior officers properly.

What term describes the collective spirit of pride, camaraderie, and devotion shared among members of the Marine Corps?

Answer: Esprit de Corps

'Esprit de Corps' is the French term referring to the collective enthusiasm, pride, and devotion to the unit shared by Marines.

When a Marine enters an officer's office to formally report, what is the correct first action upon entering?

Answer: Knock, request permission to enter, march to within two paces of the desk, and render a salute

The proper reporting procedure requires knocking, requesting permission, approaching the desk, rendering a salute, and stating the purpose of the report.

What is the correct English translation of the Marine Corps motto 'Semper Fidelis'?

Answer: Always Faithful

'Semper Fidelis' is Latin for 'Always Faithful,' representing the Marine Corps' unwavering commitment to duty, Corps, and country.

When walking alongside or escorting a senior officer, where should a junior Marine position themselves?

Answer: To the left of the senior officer

By military custom, the junior walks to the left of the senior, yielding the position of honor (right side) to the senior.