Retreat ceremony recommences at Edwards

  • Published
  • By by 95th Air Base Wing Command Post
  • 95th Air Base Wing
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Base officials recommenced Retreat ceremonies Aug. 2. Retreat is played, Monday through Friday using the Giant Voice System at 4:30 p.m. The music file is approximately two minutes long when Retreat is played, followed by the National Anthem.

As a reminder, on the first note of Retreat, certain protocol is required of military members and the base populace:

- For military members in uniform or out of uniform, at the first note of Retreat, stop and turn to face the flag. In cases where the flag is not visible, turn in the general direction of the flag or the sound of the music. When in uniform, stand at parade rest. When not in uniform, protocol still dictates that service members stop and face the flag or music out of respect.

- When the Retreat music concludes, come to attention and render a salute when the first note of the National Anthem is played. Service members will lower their salute when the final note is finished.

- When not in uniform, service members and veterans may still render a salute if they so desire during the hoisting, lowering or passing of the flag. At a minimum, service members not in uniform should come to attention and place their right hand over their heart. They should remove their hat with the right hand and hold it at the left shoulder while their right hand is over their heart.

- Those wearing the Air Force physical fitness uniform will follow the same procedures as if they were in uniform when outdoors.

- When driving, on the first note of Retreat, bring the moving vehicle safely to a complete stop as you would if an emergency vehicle were approaching. Then put the car in park. Base guidance is that people turn off any music playing in the vehicle. Everyone inside the vehicle, including the driver, should remain seated and still until the last note of the National Anthem is finished.

- Civilian employees on base are asked to participate as well. When hearing the first note of Retreat sounded, civilians should generally follow the same procedures as military members who are not in uniform, with the exception of coming to attention.

For more information, call Master Sgt. James Joyner at 661-277-3040.