Keeping tradition strong with reveille and retreat ceremonies

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Sara Csurilla
  • 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Do you ever wonder why we stop to honor our flag when reveille and retreat begin to sound?

"It's what we do," said Chief Master Sgt. Bruce Heinzen, 47th Flying Training Wing command chief. "As a military force we've performed reveille and retreat for centuries, originally for operational reasons, and today, because of tradition and respect to those who have secured the freedoms we enjoy."

So to keep tradition sturdy at Laughlin, units and squadrons here will begin taking turns performing these honors every Thursday afternoon and Friday morning at Heritage Park. While each unit will only be performing the honors about two times each year, all base members are welcome to attend the ceremonies every week.

Now imagine, it's 7 a.m. or 5 p.m., the first note to reveille or retreat has sounded and you're outside. What should you do?

According to Chief Heinzen, the ceremonies are honored in very similar ways.
Upon the first note of reveille or retreat stop where you are, face the flag, if visible, and assume the position of parade rest. If the flag is not visible, face the music. On the first note of "To the Colors" for reveille and the "Star Spangled Banner" for retreat, come to the position of attention and salute. If in civilian clothes, place your right hand over your heart instead of rendering a salute. At the end of the music, drop your salute and proceed on your way. If you are in a vehicle when the music sounds pull over to the side of the roadway and wait until the music has played; then proceed on your way. You may exit your vehicle and render a salute during "To the Colors" or our "Star Spangled Banner," but it is not mandatory.

If you are interested in serving as your unit POC or being involved with the ceremonies, let your supervisor know.

"Today, our reveille and retreat ceremonies not only signal the beginning and end of the duty day, they pay homage to America's flag and to those that have and continue to serve under it," said Chief Heinzen.