What is the standard protocol for saluting an officer in uniform?

• A. Render a salute on approach and address by rank; the officer may return the salute.
• B. Stand at attention and bow.
• C. Salute only if the officer salutes first.
• D. Do not salute indoors.

Answer: (A)

Saluting an officer in uniform is a formal sign of respect for the rank and the uniform. The standard approach is to render a salute as you approach and to address the officer by rank, using a respectful form like “Sir” or “Ma’am.” The act of saluting and the verbal address together acknowledge the officer’s position, and the officer should return the salute as a courtesy when appropriate. This practice keeps the chain of command clear and maintains uniform courtesy in any setting where you meet an officer in uniform.

Other options don’t fit because a bow is not the standard gesture in uniformed naval protocol, and saluting is not contingent on the officer saluting first—you initiate the salute yourself. Indoors isn’t a blanket exception to saluting; the key requirement is acknowledging the rank with the salute and appropriate address, not the location.