Dear Folks,
Unlike Bobby I will address the leters to mother but they are meant for everyone. I haven't had much time to write home in the past few days. Counting today's mail I have received sixteen letters in the past four days.
Everything is going alone pretty smoothly but I ache all over. They are giving us a real workout in gym. Don't worry though, in another week I will be a superman. At 1330 this afternoon I received my fourht needle. This one was for typhoid. Nothing happened until two hours afterwards, then......... Is my arm sore. It's disgusting. Some of the fellows didn't even eat supper. Along with their stiff legs, the boys are good candidates for 4F. Did you hear that groan. Someone just tried to take his sweater off. I guess this gripe letter wouldn't be complete if I didn't complain about the bell that so rudely disturbs our sleep at 0545 every morning. What they call that bell, they shouldn't call Hitler. It's a routine now. They curse Hitler, they curse the Navy, they curse the Officer of the Day, they curse everything that has any connection with the ringing of the bell. You only have 1/2 a minute to be out of bed. If you are caught, you receive two demerits (punishment- walk one hour with a gun on y our shoulder for each demerit.) I am in the top bunk and when that bell stops, my eyes are still blurry. I just throw my feet out of the bunk, push off and pray that I land safely.
Yesterday I received letters from Oliver, Ruth Drayton (the girl I worked with), my own dear mother, Muriel Eichler, Rose Dene (another girl from the bank).
Today I received letters from Al Laguskaus, Jack Purcell, Bob Ludwig
From the letters I have received, Bub must have had a good time rollerskating.
Thanks, Jerry, for the Dodgers scores. I haven't seen a paper or heard a radio since I have been here.
By the way Bub, how is that softball team of yours making out? Are you still twirling them for the dear old routing dept?
Thanks for that volume that you sent me mother. It took me fifteen minutes to read it and I imagine you were tping for a couple of hours.
I don't know exactly how I to get radio but I think the simplest means is to have it sent up here by mail.
The work hasn't been too bad so far but they do everything on the double up here. From 0700 until 1200 you do not have a minute to yourself.
Food is still plentiful. Every day I have been up here I drank 2 1/4 quarts of milk. Believe it or not I have lost five pounds though. I am down to 157. Relax, mother, that was all fat I lost.
I think I had better close now because tjere are still quite a few letters to be written.
Your Navy friend,
Jim
P.S. If you have a dictionary that isn't being used, will you please send it to me. Room 22 has eight of the worst spellers up here.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Thursday, April 15, 2010
May 17, 1943
To the Chellis household ( That should include everybody)
Aviation Cadet James R. Chellis has completed his first day of school. It was a beast. Probably the worst part of all was the heat. The sun was out plenty strong and the air was sticky. First period starts at 0715 and the subject is plane recognition. I bet Jerry would get a kick out of this subject. Within three weeks I have to be able to distinguish a plane withing 1/15th of a a second. They flash a plane or a ship on the screen for the alloted time and Chellis should be able to tell them what kind of a plane or ship it is. At present there is a series of 40 different type ships. The projector they use is so valuable they have a guard with it 24 hours a day.
Next two period we have math. In the short time I have been here I have found out that all the profs here are characters. No kidding, they are just like the wild and punchy type that you would see in the movies. Well, the prof I have for math is a cross between and Englishman and an Italian.
The following period is gym. All I can say about that is I will either be a super-duper man or a good 4F. They had us out doing cal ( no one in my room knows how to spell the rest of the word. You know what I mean- I hope) What a workout.
The best part of the day follows immediately. One guess. Chow- we have an hour off and then back for a study period. Two navigation periods follow and then communication. I am taking the Morse code. Dit Dat Dot Dit Dat Dat Dat Dot and all that baloney. This winds up school at 1650 Chow again 1736 and we can knock around until 1900. From 1900 to 2130 there is a study period. We hit the sack at 2200 and sleep like little babies untio 0545. Then the routine starts all over again.
I though you might want to know what Chellis was doing up here.
Thanks for the card everyone. I received two other cards, one from the Executive Dept at the Dime and another from Muriel.
With best regards to all
Jim
P.S. Will get a letter of to Bobby as soon as possible.
Aviation Cadet James R. Chellis has completed his first day of school. It was a beast. Probably the worst part of all was the heat. The sun was out plenty strong and the air was sticky. First period starts at 0715 and the subject is plane recognition. I bet Jerry would get a kick out of this subject. Within three weeks I have to be able to distinguish a plane withing 1/15th of a a second. They flash a plane or a ship on the screen for the alloted time and Chellis should be able to tell them what kind of a plane or ship it is. At present there is a series of 40 different type ships. The projector they use is so valuable they have a guard with it 24 hours a day.
Next two period we have math. In the short time I have been here I have found out that all the profs here are characters. No kidding, they are just like the wild and punchy type that you would see in the movies. Well, the prof I have for math is a cross between and Englishman and an Italian.
The following period is gym. All I can say about that is I will either be a super-duper man or a good 4F. They had us out doing cal ( no one in my room knows how to spell the rest of the word. You know what I mean- I hope) What a workout.
The best part of the day follows immediately. One guess. Chow- we have an hour off and then back for a study period. Two navigation periods follow and then communication. I am taking the Morse code. Dit Dat Dot Dit Dat Dat Dat Dot and all that baloney. This winds up school at 1650 Chow again 1736 and we can knock around until 1900. From 1900 to 2130 there is a study period. We hit the sack at 2200 and sleep like little babies untio 0545. Then the routine starts all over again.
I though you might want to know what Chellis was doing up here.
Thanks for the card everyone. I received two other cards, one from the Executive Dept at the Dime and another from Muriel.
With best regards to all
Jim
P.S. Will get a letter of to Bobby as soon as possible.
May 14, 1943 2100
Dear Everybody,
Aviation Cadet James Chellis has now completed his second full day here at R.P.I. This morning after breakfast we heard a few more speeches and saw more pictures. I imagine you are wondering what these pictures have to do with our training. Don't worry - they don't show Buck Jones, Lana Turner, or Clark Gable. Most of them have to do with drilling. They made a few pictures down at Annapolis illustrating the various types of turns, marches and other drills. We have seen a few pictures about other training we will go through in the Naval Air Corp.
This afternoon we marched over to the airport. After I finish my three months here I am assigned to another college for C.A.A.W.T.S. ( figure it out yourself). There is a possibility that I might stay here for that training. I guess that's why we went to see the boys fly today. The fellows were all hepped up to see the planes.
Last night our room had it's first run-in with the officers. About fifteen minutes after we were suppose to be asleep, one of the characters in the room was telling jokes and naturally we were laughing like madmen. Suddenly in comes the officer of the day, Boy, did he let off steam. Everything turned out OK.
I was thining that I had better send you a diagram of my room.
Aviation Cadet James Chellis has now completed his second full day here at R.P.I. This morning after breakfast we heard a few more speeches and saw more pictures. I imagine you are wondering what these pictures have to do with our training. Don't worry - they don't show Buck Jones, Lana Turner, or Clark Gable. Most of them have to do with drilling. They made a few pictures down at Annapolis illustrating the various types of turns, marches and other drills. We have seen a few pictures about other training we will go through in the Naval Air Corp.
This afternoon we marched over to the airport. After I finish my three months here I am assigned to another college for C.A.A.W.T.S. ( figure it out yourself). There is a possibility that I might stay here for that training. I guess that's why we went to see the boys fly today. The fellows were all hepped up to see the planes.
Last night our room had it's first run-in with the officers. About fifteen minutes after we were suppose to be asleep, one of the characters in the room was telling jokes and naturally we were laughing like madmen. Suddenly in comes the officer of the day, Boy, did he let off steam. Everything turned out OK.
I was thining that I had better send you a diagram of my room.
This is a rough schetch. Of course there are a couple of chairs throuwn around someplace.
Taps blows in a few minutes so I will say
Good-night
Jim
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
May 13, 1943
U.S. Navy Flight Prepatory School
May 13, 1943 2000
Dear Pop, Ma, Mary, Jerry, Mat & Bub,
Well I have just finished my first day as a cadet. Boy was it long. We hit the deck at 0545 ( Navy slang) and chow at 0615. The officer of the day came around at 0700 for room inspection. You should see me make my bed now. As you probably know all the sheets and blankets must be tucked under that certain way ( the Navy way), but I will be darned if I am going to spend half an hour a day making my bed. Tonight Chellis sleeps on the floor.
After inspection we mustered and drilled at the Armory for an hour or so, then off to see more movies ans some jerk let off some steam. Chow again, drill again and, more wind. Don't get me wrong. I am not complaining. I couldn't ask for a better set-up. we are living the same life as the college boys still here. In fact we are being paid and they are paying. (plenty) You wouldn't believe it but there are over a thousand student still here adn only 520 cadets. Most of the students are schduled to be called up in the Army and Navy Reserves some time next month. That should leave the college pretty much to the Navy.
As I said before no-kicks yet. Everyone is anxious to start on their school work. All these movies they have been showing us , deal with the Air Corp. It's only natural that everyone wants to get in the air. Comes the day.
The letter must come to a close. There are so many cards I have to send out , it isn't funny.
Your loving son , brother, cousin and nephew,
Jim
PS I hope you have sent the electric razor. This morning it was a slaughter for the bathroom.
May 12, 1943
8:45pm
Dear Moth
Haven't had much time to myself so far. As far as I can see the set-up is pretty smooth. The only thing we have been doing is sitting around listening to seom officers welcome us and taking in a few patriotic movies so to build up the boys morale.
First of all, I better explain " Hunt #3" on my address. There are quite a few different houses that make up the freshman dorms. These houses are named after the founders of the college, therefore the number the houses White #1, White #2 White #3; Hunt #1, #2, #3.
As far as I can see the don't give you much time to yourselve except over the weekend. I have been talking to some of the old-timers here and they are pretty well satisfied with the place. There is plenty of book work and study but a little work won't kill me.
There is a fellow waiting to mail this letter so I had better close.
Tomorrow I will try and get off a longer letter but at present I am mighty tired.
Please send me the rest of my junk and make sure to send the electric razor. The wash basin is going to be a mad house in the morning.
I will close now saying
This is your Navy son
Jim
Dear Moth
Haven't had much time to myself so far. As far as I can see the set-up is pretty smooth. The only thing we have been doing is sitting around listening to seom officers welcome us and taking in a few patriotic movies so to build up the boys morale.
First of all, I better explain " Hunt #3" on my address. There are quite a few different houses that make up the freshman dorms. These houses are named after the founders of the college, therefore the number the houses White #1, White #2 White #3; Hunt #1, #2, #3.
As far as I can see the don't give you much time to yourselve except over the weekend. I have been talking to some of the old-timers here and they are pretty well satisfied with the place. There is plenty of book work and study but a little work won't kill me.
There is a fellow waiting to mail this letter so I had better close.
Tomorrow I will try and get off a longer letter but at present I am mighty tired.
Please send me the rest of my junk and make sure to send the electric razor. The wash basin is going to be a mad house in the morning.
I will close now saying
This is your Navy son
Jim
A Message to Aviation Cadets Entering Naval Prep Schools- 1943
A Message to Aviation Cadets
Entering the U. S. Naval Flight Preparatory Schools
(April, 1943)
A. W. RADFORD
Captain, U.S.N. Director of Aviation Training Bureau of Aeronautics
Preface
This pamphlet, originally prepared by Lieutenant R. H. Robinson, U.S.N.R., is considered of such value that it should be made available to all students of the United States Naval Flight Preparatory Schools. The high quality and standards achieved by Naval Aviation during the current conflict can be maintained only by the individual and all-out efforts of each officer and man within its organization.
A Message to Aviation Cadets
You have been selected for flight training from a large number of applicants. The U. S. Navy welcomes you as an Aviation Cadet and future officer. You now have the most important job of your life to do. Absolutely nothing must stop you from achieving success-in this, your greatest venture. To attain your objective you will have to exercise to the fullest those qualities with which you have been endowed.
The transition from civilian life to military routine may not be easy at first and will require considerable adjustment on your part. You must "grow up" quickly and discard schoolboy ideas. You must learn to do things the Navy way, but, as you progress through the various stages of instruction, things will come easier to you. It is the purpose of this pamphlet to answer some of the questions which undoubtedly are in your mind and to give you a few hints which will aid your adjustment.
The modern airplane is an ingenious piece of machinery, extremely delicate and complicated, and to fly one well requires the greatest skill. The U. S. Navy is not interested in developing a corps of "aerial truck drivers"; instead, it needs trained men thoroughly proficient in the fine art of flying and fighting as a team. You must think straight and act quickly in order to handle successfully the powerful planes which you will fly. You must have the courage and ability to beat your opponents, even when the odds are against you.
During your course of instruction at the Flight Preparatory School and in your later training, the Navy will spend many thousands of dollars to equip you for active combat service and the serious business of prolonging your own life. It is up to you to concentrate, study, persevere, and give absolutely everything you have. You are now playing for keeps. If you learn thoroughly the subjects that will be taught to you here and in the schools to follow, you will be, when you receive your wings, one of the best trained aviators in the world.
You may as well know now that if your ground work here is careless and halfhearted, you soon will return through the same gate you entered. We are at war, and the Navy does not have the time or money to waste if you are not deadly serious! A commission and the coveted wings of a Naval Aviator await you if you strive hard for this goal with all you have — and don't give up.
During your training on the ground and in the air, there are apt to be times when something is said or done that is over your head. Do not be afraid to ask questions. The officers and civilian instructors teaching you are just as anxious to impart their knowledge with thoroughness as you are to acquire it, and they welcome intelligent questions. It is our duty to instruct you with all the knowledge that we have — it is your duty to absorb it.
You must be conscious of your position at all times, remembering that Aviation Cadets are future officers. You must be correct in behavior and appearance and must create a good impression of the Naval service with all whom you contact. Do not smoke on the streets nor do anything which may reflect upon your training. The honor system is in force here and it is up to you to live up to the trust placed in you. Violations may result in dismissal.
The Meaning of Discipline
Naval discipline is a habit of intelligent obedience instilled in you by education and training. It insures order, precision, and promptness at all times. Without discipline, a group of men becomes a mob, incapable of accomplishing an assigned mission.
Those who are destined to command must first learn to obey.
Discipline means that you subject your-self to control exerted for the good of the whole. It is absolutely indispensable in a military organization.
Two essentials of discipline are obedience to proper authority and uniform obedience by all.
Discipline is a necessary component of every phase of military life. If you willingly subject yourself to Its standards, you will soon learn to respect it and therefore never have to fear it. Unlike small boys who try to see how much they can get away with, Aviation Cadets must enforce regulations upon themselves and later upon others. Willful infraction of regulations will result in punishment for the offender. You will find, however, that discipline at the U. S. Naval Flight Preparatory School is used chiefly to mold, correct, improve, and develop qualities of leadership in cadets.
Three reasons why men accept discipline are fear of punishment, cheerful and spontaneous acquiescence because of faith in their cause, and respect for the confidence their leaders place in them.
Most of the discipline of the Navy rests either upon tradition or on the basic laws that comprise The Articles for the Government of the Navy. These "Articles" comprise the "Constitution" of the Navy and from them most Naval regulations and instructions have been derived.
The Rules of Discipline are:
Obey orders cheerfully and willingly.
Obey the last order received from any responsible authority.
Show respect to your seniors at all times.
Remember that you will soon be a leader and will be giving orders. You will be responsible then to see that those under you obey. You must first learn to be obedient yourself before you can expect to be a leader of other men.
Discipline does not mean short liberties, restrictions of personal conduct, and forced obedience to all sorts of rules and regulations. It does mean self-control, a cheerful obedience to necessary laws and regulations, and a square deal to your fellowmen.
You must learn by observation, study, and by asking questions. Pending acquisition of a more thorough knowledge of Naval customs, you will do nothing very wrong if you exercise good common sense, never forget that you are a gentleman, and bear in mind that you are a member of the finest military organization in the world. Undoubtedly there are many questions in your mind right now which the following may help to clear up.
The Salute
Your right hand is raised smartly until the tip of your forefinger touches the lower part of your headdress above and slightly to the right of your right eye. Your thumb and fingers are extended and joined, palm to the left, upper arm horizontal, forearm inclined
at about 45 degrees, and hand and wrist straight. If necessary, turn your head and eyes toward the person saluted. To complete the salute, drop your hand and arm smartly to your side in one motion.
The salute is an exchange of courtesy and mutual respect between individuals in a military organization. It is in no sense an admission by the one who salutes first that he is mentally, morally, or physically inferior to the one being saluted. In a sense, you are saluting the uniform that a man wears. When saluting, you are reiterating your oath of allegiance to the Service.
Nothing gives a better indication of the state of discipline than the observance of forms of military courtesy such as the salute. From time immemorial, it has been strictly and conscientiously observed by men of every nationality who follow the profession of arms.
Whom and When to Salute
Juniors always salute seniors first.
Every officer senior to you in the Navy, Army, Marine Corps, and allied or friendly foreign service should be saluted upon meeting or passing on the street. If uncertainty exists, render the salute. Better to err on the side of courtesy than be thought ignorant of the rules or expose yourself to censure.
You will salute all commissioned officers on every occasion of meeting, passing near, or being addressed.
Salutes are begun by juniors at six paces distant, when meeting, or at the nearest point of passing if greater than six paces.
Salutes are supplemented generally by a brief greeting, i.e., "Good morning, sir."
Salute only when covered. If uncovered, come to a halt and greet the senior. He will return the greeting with a salute.
Salute even though the senior is uncovered. He will return the salute with a greeting.
Don't salute when double timing. Come to a walk, salute, then resume double time. If uncovered, come to a halt and give a greeting.
Always salute, if covered, when given a personal order. In addition you acknowledge with, "Aye, aye, sir," signifying that the order is understood and will be obeyed.
Do not salute when in ranks unless you are the senior in command. He renders the salute for the entire organization, whether it be a regiment, battalion, company, platoon, squad, or detail.
Ladies of your acquaintance upon being introduced are saluted, usually with a slight bow. Never take your cap off when talking to ladies out of doors.
When passing an officer going in the same direction, you say, "By your leave, sir," as you reach his side, accompanied by a salute. Pass on his left.
In accompanying officers, juniors walk or ride on the left of their seniors unless there be special reason for the contrary. When-ever you are in a room and an officer enters, you will come to attention, at the same time calling all other cadets in the room to attention. You will remain at attention until told to "Carry on," or until the officer has left
The Uniform
The uniform with its various insignia and devices is designated primarily to indicate on sight those belonging to the Naval service. It shows at a glance the rank, corps, or rating, and hence the authority and responsibility imposed by law upon those wearing it.
Many times you are judged by your appearance. You are expected to make sure that your uniform is at all times clean, neatly pressed, and completely buttoned. Hands will not be carried in pockets nor will pockets be used to carry articles which show from the outside or because of their bulkiness, create an unmilitary appearance. Care, of course, should be taken to make sure that shoes are shined, ties correctly tied, and that other articles of uniform are properly worn. You also will keep your hair neatly trimmed and your person fresh and clean.
War regulations require that you must be in uniform at all times except when in the confines of your own home and even then when there are three or more guests present.
Qualities to Develop
Having familiarized yourself with the contents of this pamphlet, try to develop in yourself these qualities which are essential to your success as a naval officer:
Be a leader.
Be cooperative.
Be loyal.
Show Initiative.
Have confidence in yourself.
Be willing to accept responsibility.
Be fearless but not foolhardy.
Be honest and truthful at all times.
Be a gentleman always.
Be tactful, patient, fair, and just.
Reflect credit at all times on the uniform you wear and the Service you represent.
It is obviously impossible to anticipate and answer all of your questions in a booklet of this size but it is hoped that these few "hints" may prove helpful. Follow instructions, work hard, stick to the job, and you will attain your goal. Good luck in your new venture. The United States must and shall win — It's up to you!
Entering the U. S. Naval Flight Preparatory Schools
(April, 1943)
A. W. RADFORD
Captain, U.S.N. Director of Aviation Training Bureau of Aeronautics
Preface
This pamphlet, originally prepared by Lieutenant R. H. Robinson, U.S.N.R., is considered of such value that it should be made available to all students of the United States Naval Flight Preparatory Schools. The high quality and standards achieved by Naval Aviation during the current conflict can be maintained only by the individual and all-out efforts of each officer and man within its organization.
A Message to Aviation Cadets
You have been selected for flight training from a large number of applicants. The U. S. Navy welcomes you as an Aviation Cadet and future officer. You now have the most important job of your life to do. Absolutely nothing must stop you from achieving success-in this, your greatest venture. To attain your objective you will have to exercise to the fullest those qualities with which you have been endowed.
The transition from civilian life to military routine may not be easy at first and will require considerable adjustment on your part. You must "grow up" quickly and discard schoolboy ideas. You must learn to do things the Navy way, but, as you progress through the various stages of instruction, things will come easier to you. It is the purpose of this pamphlet to answer some of the questions which undoubtedly are in your mind and to give you a few hints which will aid your adjustment.
The modern airplane is an ingenious piece of machinery, extremely delicate and complicated, and to fly one well requires the greatest skill. The U. S. Navy is not interested in developing a corps of "aerial truck drivers"; instead, it needs trained men thoroughly proficient in the fine art of flying and fighting as a team. You must think straight and act quickly in order to handle successfully the powerful planes which you will fly. You must have the courage and ability to beat your opponents, even when the odds are against you.
During your course of instruction at the Flight Preparatory School and in your later training, the Navy will spend many thousands of dollars to equip you for active combat service and the serious business of prolonging your own life. It is up to you to concentrate, study, persevere, and give absolutely everything you have. You are now playing for keeps. If you learn thoroughly the subjects that will be taught to you here and in the schools to follow, you will be, when you receive your wings, one of the best trained aviators in the world.
You may as well know now that if your ground work here is careless and halfhearted, you soon will return through the same gate you entered. We are at war, and the Navy does not have the time or money to waste if you are not deadly serious! A commission and the coveted wings of a Naval Aviator await you if you strive hard for this goal with all you have — and don't give up.
During your training on the ground and in the air, there are apt to be times when something is said or done that is over your head. Do not be afraid to ask questions. The officers and civilian instructors teaching you are just as anxious to impart their knowledge with thoroughness as you are to acquire it, and they welcome intelligent questions. It is our duty to instruct you with all the knowledge that we have — it is your duty to absorb it.
You must be conscious of your position at all times, remembering that Aviation Cadets are future officers. You must be correct in behavior and appearance and must create a good impression of the Naval service with all whom you contact. Do not smoke on the streets nor do anything which may reflect upon your training. The honor system is in force here and it is up to you to live up to the trust placed in you. Violations may result in dismissal.
The Meaning of Discipline
Naval discipline is a habit of intelligent obedience instilled in you by education and training. It insures order, precision, and promptness at all times. Without discipline, a group of men becomes a mob, incapable of accomplishing an assigned mission.
Those who are destined to command must first learn to obey.
Discipline means that you subject your-self to control exerted for the good of the whole. It is absolutely indispensable in a military organization.
Two essentials of discipline are obedience to proper authority and uniform obedience by all.
Discipline is a necessary component of every phase of military life. If you willingly subject yourself to Its standards, you will soon learn to respect it and therefore never have to fear it. Unlike small boys who try to see how much they can get away with, Aviation Cadets must enforce regulations upon themselves and later upon others. Willful infraction of regulations will result in punishment for the offender. You will find, however, that discipline at the U. S. Naval Flight Preparatory School is used chiefly to mold, correct, improve, and develop qualities of leadership in cadets.
Three reasons why men accept discipline are fear of punishment, cheerful and spontaneous acquiescence because of faith in their cause, and respect for the confidence their leaders place in them.
Most of the discipline of the Navy rests either upon tradition or on the basic laws that comprise The Articles for the Government of the Navy. These "Articles" comprise the "Constitution" of the Navy and from them most Naval regulations and instructions have been derived.
The Rules of Discipline are:
Obey orders cheerfully and willingly.
Obey the last order received from any responsible authority.
Show respect to your seniors at all times.
Remember that you will soon be a leader and will be giving orders. You will be responsible then to see that those under you obey. You must first learn to be obedient yourself before you can expect to be a leader of other men.
Discipline does not mean short liberties, restrictions of personal conduct, and forced obedience to all sorts of rules and regulations. It does mean self-control, a cheerful obedience to necessary laws and regulations, and a square deal to your fellowmen.
You must learn by observation, study, and by asking questions. Pending acquisition of a more thorough knowledge of Naval customs, you will do nothing very wrong if you exercise good common sense, never forget that you are a gentleman, and bear in mind that you are a member of the finest military organization in the world. Undoubtedly there are many questions in your mind right now which the following may help to clear up.
The Salute
Your right hand is raised smartly until the tip of your forefinger touches the lower part of your headdress above and slightly to the right of your right eye. Your thumb and fingers are extended and joined, palm to the left, upper arm horizontal, forearm inclined
at about 45 degrees, and hand and wrist straight. If necessary, turn your head and eyes toward the person saluted. To complete the salute, drop your hand and arm smartly to your side in one motion.
The salute is an exchange of courtesy and mutual respect between individuals in a military organization. It is in no sense an admission by the one who salutes first that he is mentally, morally, or physically inferior to the one being saluted. In a sense, you are saluting the uniform that a man wears. When saluting, you are reiterating your oath of allegiance to the Service.
Nothing gives a better indication of the state of discipline than the observance of forms of military courtesy such as the salute. From time immemorial, it has been strictly and conscientiously observed by men of every nationality who follow the profession of arms.
Whom and When to Salute
Juniors always salute seniors first.
Every officer senior to you in the Navy, Army, Marine Corps, and allied or friendly foreign service should be saluted upon meeting or passing on the street. If uncertainty exists, render the salute. Better to err on the side of courtesy than be thought ignorant of the rules or expose yourself to censure.
You will salute all commissioned officers on every occasion of meeting, passing near, or being addressed.
Salutes are begun by juniors at six paces distant, when meeting, or at the nearest point of passing if greater than six paces.
Salutes are supplemented generally by a brief greeting, i.e., "Good morning, sir."
Salute only when covered. If uncovered, come to a halt and greet the senior. He will return the greeting with a salute.
Salute even though the senior is uncovered. He will return the salute with a greeting.
Don't salute when double timing. Come to a walk, salute, then resume double time. If uncovered, come to a halt and give a greeting.
Always salute, if covered, when given a personal order. In addition you acknowledge with, "Aye, aye, sir," signifying that the order is understood and will be obeyed.
Do not salute when in ranks unless you are the senior in command. He renders the salute for the entire organization, whether it be a regiment, battalion, company, platoon, squad, or detail.
Ladies of your acquaintance upon being introduced are saluted, usually with a slight bow. Never take your cap off when talking to ladies out of doors.
When passing an officer going in the same direction, you say, "By your leave, sir," as you reach his side, accompanied by a salute. Pass on his left.
In accompanying officers, juniors walk or ride on the left of their seniors unless there be special reason for the contrary. When-ever you are in a room and an officer enters, you will come to attention, at the same time calling all other cadets in the room to attention. You will remain at attention until told to "Carry on," or until the officer has left
The Uniform
The uniform with its various insignia and devices is designated primarily to indicate on sight those belonging to the Naval service. It shows at a glance the rank, corps, or rating, and hence the authority and responsibility imposed by law upon those wearing it.
Many times you are judged by your appearance. You are expected to make sure that your uniform is at all times clean, neatly pressed, and completely buttoned. Hands will not be carried in pockets nor will pockets be used to carry articles which show from the outside or because of their bulkiness, create an unmilitary appearance. Care, of course, should be taken to make sure that shoes are shined, ties correctly tied, and that other articles of uniform are properly worn. You also will keep your hair neatly trimmed and your person fresh and clean.
War regulations require that you must be in uniform at all times except when in the confines of your own home and even then when there are three or more guests present.
Qualities to Develop
Having familiarized yourself with the contents of this pamphlet, try to develop in yourself these qualities which are essential to your success as a naval officer:
Be a leader.
Be cooperative.
Be loyal.
Show Initiative.
Have confidence in yourself.
Be willing to accept responsibility.
Be fearless but not foolhardy.
Be honest and truthful at all times.
Be a gentleman always.
Be tactful, patient, fair, and just.
Reflect credit at all times on the uniform you wear and the Service you represent.
It is obviously impossible to anticipate and answer all of your questions in a booklet of this size but it is hoped that these few "hints" may prove helpful. Follow instructions, work hard, stick to the job, and you will attain your goal. Good luck in your new venture. The United States must and shall win — It's up to you!
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