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Base reveille and retreat reminder

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  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Those new to Eglin may not be aware of the military traditions or are curious about the protocol. The expectations behind reveille and retreat are worth revisiting or providing an orientation and introduction to the military lifestyle.

The terms "Reveille" and "Retreat" can refer both to the ceremony that is used to show respect to the flag and to the music that initiates the event. Reveille is initiated with a bugle call, which is followed by the playing of "To the Colors."

Retreat signifies the end of the duty day, and is a signal to all who hear it that the flag is being secured. It is initiated with the playing of "Retreat", followed by the playing of the National Anthem.

During reveille and retreat, all personnel on Eglin AFB participating in outdoor activity (to include, but not limited to, walking, individual/unit physical training) should stop their activity to show respect for the flag, according to AFI 34-1201.

In the interest of safety on Eglin, drivers are not required to stop driving on Eglin Boulevard during reveille or retreat. On all other Eglin streets however, stopping is suggested within the limits of safety.

If sponsoring guests, including contractors, one should inform them of these requirements.

Below are some common questions regarding the proper protocol to follow during reveille and retreat.

What do I do when reveille or retreat is played?

At the first notes of "Reveille" or "Retreat," stop where you are and turn to face the flag. If the flag is not visible, turn in the general direction of the flag or towards the direction of the music.

If in uniform, come to parade rest at the first notes of "Reveille" or "Retreat." Come to attention and salute at the first notes of "To the Colors" or the National Anthem.

If not in uniform, come to attention and place your right hand over your heart at the first notes of "To the Colors" or the National Anthem. If you are wearing a hat, remove it with your right hand and hold it at the left shoulder while your right hand is over the heart.

Service members and veterans, even if not in uniform, may render a salute during reveille or retreat.

What if I'm wearing my physical training uniform?

Proper military customs and courtesies apply while wearing the PT uniform during reveille and retreat. When in the PT uniform, come to parade rest at the first notes of "Reveille" or "Retreat." Come to attention and salute at the first notes of "To the Colors" and the National Anthem.

What do I do if I'm driving at the time of reveille or retreat?

As stated above, in the interest of safety on Eglin, drivers are not required to stop driving on Eglin Boulevard during reveille or retreat. On all other Eglin streets however, stopping is suggested within the limits of safety.