The Correct Way to Salute: British Military Protocol Explained

The British militaryrsquo;s salute is an iconic part of military tradition, often seen in ceremonial events like the Coronation of the Queen or the Changing of the Guard at Londonrsquo;s Buckingham Palace. However, one common misconception is the inclusion of stomp and click movements in the salute. This article aims to clarify the correct way to salute and the proper etiquette in British military ceremonial practices.

Understanding the Salute

In British military protocol, the salute is not just about waving hands aloft with precision. It includes a specific drill movement known as stomping. This involves the quick, sharp movement of one foot to the other, which adds a sense of discipline and respect to the act. The stomp is typically executed after the salute itself, where soldiers bring their feet together sharply. However, the unique clicking sound often associated with the salute is actually the heels coming together, not a separate stomp or click action.

During the salute, soldiers must ensure that their movements fit the occasion. For instance, when giving a salute, British soldiers are expected to maintain a refined posture, especially indoors. Floor-slamming or stomping is considered rude and inappropriate, as it could damage indoor flooring like carpets. In a formal setting, soldiers are taught to execute the salute with such grace and precision that it doesnrsquo;t cause any disturbance to the environment around them.

The Art of Saluting Indoors

Saluting indoors can be particularly delicate, as soldiers must be mindful of their surroundings. The act of stomping or clicking should not be mistaken for the actual solemn nature of the salute. Instead, the emphasis is on precision and respect, where the soldier raises their left leg until the thigh is parallel to the ground (about 12 inches), then swiftly drives the foot down (about 14 inches). The key is to perform these movements quietly and with as much finesse as possible, as one would expect from a well-trained member of the British military.

Itrsquo;s also important to note that the salute is not a command or a halt. Soldiers who are on the move are encouraged to continue their pace while performing the salute. This is a skill taught in basic training, where multi-tasking is crucial. However, if a soldier is approaching an officer, they would halt or come to attention, a more formal version of the parade ground halt, but indoors it is more refined to avoid disturbing the environment.

Urban Legends and Misconceptions

While topics about saluting can sometimes be mundane, they are immensely rich in lore and history. Therersquo;s even an urban legend about a British soldier named Sapper Blogs. According to this tale, Blogs was out for a routine parade march when he saw a female adjutant exiting the headquarters building. Before approaching, he quickly gave a friendly salute. However, the adjutant, instead of indulging in a jest, corrected him by stating, ldquo;Donrsquo;t give compliments; salute female officers.rdquo; In a flash, Blogs retorted, ldquo;Oh sorry Ma'am, nice tits,rdquo; before continuing on his way.

This anecdote, while nonsensical, demonstrates the importance of the correct etiquette in the British military. Even in the face of a jest, the discipline and respect for protocol must be maintained, regardless of the situation. Itrsquo;s a testament to the rigor of the British militaryrsquo;s training and its unwavering commitment to tradition and professionalism.

Conclusion

Saluting is not just a formality; it is an act of respect and discipline in the British military. The correct way to salute involves sharp movements like stomping and the deliberate sound of the heels coming together, but these actions should be performed with a refined touch indoors and with a sense of continuity when on the move. Understanding and practicing these nuances ensures that the tradition remains intact and that the salute retains its rightful place in military ceremonies and everyday life.