Reporting to an Officer

When you have officially asked for and received permission to speak to an officer-or if you have been notified that an officer wishes to speak to you- you are required to report to the officer. The manner in which you report to an officer will create a good or bad impression. You will make a good impression if you report to an officer properly and demonstrate good military bearing. The reporting procedure is broken down into three steps: entrance, reporting, and departure.

Entrance

Before entering the room or office, knock once firmly and loudly enough to be heard in an average-sized room. If you don't get an answer in a reasonable amount of time, knock again. When told to enter, march in at the position attention. Take the most direct route to the officer. Halt approximately two paces from the officer or from the desk if the officer is seated. Always halt in a way that places you squarely facing the officer.

Reporting

Reporting is the most critical step. Report in a military manner with snap and precision, but do not exaggerate the movements. The first thing to do is to salute properly. Begin your reporting statement at the time your hand reaches the saluting position. Speak in a clear, conversational tone of voice. If you were told to report , say "Sir/Ma'am, Cadet(your last name) reports as ordered." If you are reporting on your own, say "Sir/Ma'am, Cadet(your last name) reports." Hold the salute until you have completed the reporting statement and the officer has returned your salute. Stand at attention unless ordered otherwise. When the conversation is finished-or the officer has dismissed you- come to attention and properly salute. Hold the salute until the officer returns it, then drop the salute.

Departure

As soon as you drop the salute, complete the appropriate facing movement ( about face, left face, right face, or a face in marching) and march or walk at the position of attention. Take the most direct route. Maintain proper military bearing at all times.