Military Ball

At least once a year each military JROTC program hosts a formal military ball in which students/guest can attend.

It's an exciting time for the JROTC military communities to get together, but often times, students get anxious about what to expect as they honorably represent their JROTC program. Each branch runs their event differently, so some of the following advice varies, but here are a few general things students may want to know about military ball:

Dressing up for the military ball

A military ball is a great excuse to dress up and feel like a princess/prince.

What to wear

In a military ball, JROTC male members wear dress blue or class uniforms while female are allowed to wear along gowns. Guests complement them with formal attire. Male guests typically wear dark suits with a bow tie or a tuxedo. Women wear knee -to floor- length gowns, but also have the option of cocktail dresses, as long as detailing is minimal. Patterns and bright should be avoided.

Women are not expected to get their hair professionally done, but many sport fancy curls or elegant hairdos. Since spouses will be greeting people with handshakes, hands should be well groomed. If a woman chooses to wear gloves, proper glove protocol includes removing the right glove and holding it in the left hand while meeting other guests.

Photographer

The night kicks off around 6 with a social hour where JROTC members and guests can mingle. There may also be a photographer for formal pictures. When hours ends it's typically time for the receiving line.

Receiving Line

Before you head to the receiving line, be sure to leave all food, drink, extra garments and umbrellas in the check area. Women are permitted to bring their purses with them. When walking as a couple, women walk in front of the men in a single-file line, even if the woman is the service member. The first person you'll encounter is the announcer and you do not shake his or her hand. You simply introduce or are introduced by your last name. As you continue through the line, short greetings are appropriate, such as, "Good evening, it's nice to meet you."

Dinner Hour

When dinnertime is sounded by a horn, it's time for you to take your assigned seat. It's a good idea to open the lines of communication.

After Dinner

When the presentation ends, the dance floor opens up. It may begin with formal dances such as waltzes or foxtrots, but depending on the band or DJ that runs the show, more contemporary music can be played. You can let loose on the dance floor, but be sure to leave the club moves at home.

Have you attended a military ball? What was your experience?

Do you have any advice or things spouses should know before they go?