ARNOLD AIR FORCE BASE, Tenn. -- If you have ever spent the morning on an Air Force installation, you are likely familiar with the music that echoes across the base precisely at 7:30 a.m.
This daily tradition is a cornerstone of military heritage, reminding Airmen, civilians and families of the values of life, liberty and the sacrifices made to protect them.
The morning music typically consists of a bugle call known as "Reveille” followed by “To the Colors.” These signify the beginning of the duty day for most employees at Arnold Air Force Base. Understanding the history behind this daily ritual – and the specific protocols required when it plays – is essential for anyone living or working on a military base.
When the music begins to play over the "giant voice" system, the entire base comes to a standstill. According to Air Force Instruction 34-1201 (Protocol) and Air Force Manual 36-2203 (Drill and Ceremonies), rendering proper courtesies is mandatory when “Reveille” is accompanied by the raising of the flag or the playing of "To the Colors" or the national anthem.
Here is what you are expected to do depending on your situation:
If you are outdoors in uniform:
- On the first note of “Reveille”: Immediately stop whatever activity you are doing (including walking or physical training). Face the installation flag. If the flag is not in view, turn to face the direction the music is broadcasting from and assume the proper position. Stand at attention and salute.
If you are outdoors in civilian attire:
- On the first note of “Reveille”: Stop your activities, face the flag (or the music) and stand quietly.
- On the first note of "To the Colors" or the national anthem: Stand at attention and place your right hand over your heart. If you are wearing a non-religious hat or headgear, remove it with your right hand and hold it over your left shoulder so your hand rests over your heart.
If you are driving a vehicle:
Safety is paramount, but respect is still required. If you are driving on base when the morning music begins:
- Safely slow down and pull your vehicle to the side of the road and stop.
- Turn off your radio or turn the volume completely down.
- All occupants should remain seated inside the vehicle and sit quietly at attention until the last note of the music has finished playing. You do not need to exit your vehicle.
Gate procedures
- At the gate, security will stop traffic coming onto the base to coincide with the playing of the music.
- You should drive up to the gate and then stop to wait there. You should avoid stopping and blocking Wattendorf Memorial Highway, if possible.
At 4:30 p.m., “Retreat” and the national anthem are played to signal the end of the official day. Once again, gate security will stop traffic coinciding with the playing of the music. Drive up to the gate and wait there. Avoid blocking Wattendorf Memorial Highway, if possible. All steps listed above for the 7:30 a.m. music is to be followed in the same manner at 4:30 p.m. for the end of the day music.
It is essential to understand and follow these specific protocols if you are living or working on base. Please be respectful and show support to the United States Air Force.
References:
- https://www.mortuary.af.mil/Portals/31/AFI%2034-1201%2C%20Protocol.pdf
https://ga152.cap.gov/media/cms/AFMAN_3662203_June_2018_D59DB14F82A53.pdf