Appendix G

Cerimonies

This appendix contains a checklist for successfully conducting military ceremonies. It also shows the sequence of events for a change of command and change of responsibility ceremonies. 

G-1. Ceremonies honor lineage and history, thereby requiring the utmost in respect and courtesy. Military ceremonies can honor high-ranking commanders, officials, or dignitaries; or permit them to observe the state of training of an organization. Military ceremonies can also be used to present decorations and awards, honor or recognize unit or individual achievements, commemorate events, mark changes of command and responsibility, and induct newly promoted NCOs into the ranks. Presentation of awards recognizes distinguished accomplishment by the Service member. AR 600-8-22 states that awards will be presented with an appropriate air of formality and with fitting ceremony. 

G-2. There are several different types of ceremonies that units will occasionally conduct. Unit CSMs and their staff will develop their own sequence of events for the following types of ceremonies:

G-3. Most ceremonies will include some of the mandatory events listed in the reviews chapter and end with the playing of the Army song. A unit CSM or their designated representative develops their ceremony specific SOP and ensure the preparedness of the unit conducting the ceremony. If the ceremony is conducted at the company or troop level, then the responsibilities for the sequence of events could be delegated to the company first sergeant and command team. Hail and farewells do not require the playing of the national anthem or playing of the Army song. Figure G-1 on page G-2 shows a sample checklist for conducting military ceremonies.