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3 days after being entertained at dinner. Today the
thoughtful guest will write a note of appreciation,
telephone, or send flowers.
The importance of
expressing your appreciation to your host cannot be
overemphasized.
INTRODUCTIONS
Remember the following three basic rules when
introducing two individuals:
A man is normally introduced to a woman.
A younger adult is introduced to an older adult
of the same sex.
An officer of lower rank is introduced to one of
higher rank.
Most introductions go wrong because a person is
too wordy. The following formats are best:
“Mrs. Doe—Mr. Boate” (directed to Mrs. Doe)
“Ensign Door—Chief Warrant Officer Brush”
(directed to Ensign Door)
“This is Ensign Pistol” spoken to Mrs. Frost;
then to the ensign, “Mrs. Frost”
When formal introductions are necessary (high
church, military, or government officials; royalty; or
guest speakers), use the following formats:
“Miss Doe, I have the honor to present
Mr. Seaman”
“Ensign Door, may I present Ensign Boat”
A male officer in civilian clothes and wearing a hat
should uncover on being introduced to a woman. The
officer should remain uncovered while other men of
the party are being introduced to a woman or to each
other in the presence of women. If in uniform, the male
officer is governed by circumstances. To remove your
uniform cap during the introduction is perfectly
correct, but replace it sooner than you would a civilian
hat.
The important thing is to convey the idea of
courtesy and to maintain a military appearance.
Following an introduction, the general rule is that
the civilian lady starts the handshake.
When two
officers are introduced, the senior officer starts the
handshake.
If seated, a man rises to acknowledge an
introduction and remains standing while other
members of the party are being introduced to one
another.
However, at a table where rising might
inconvenience other persons, he does not rise on
being introduced to either women or men who are
themselves seated.
MISCELLANEOUS GUIDELINES
The following are points of reference and handy
items to know for situations that may confront you:
Exact protocol is normally observed only in
diplomatic circles and at high-level
governmental affairs.
Attire for a change of command and retirement
ceremony is usually service dress if you are an
observer. The attire of an officer’s spouse or
date is a tailored dress or business suit. These
ceremonies always provide a printed program
informing guests when to sit and when to rise.
When an admiral or high-ranking dignitary
arrives aboard, civilian women do not stand;
but during rendition of personal honors, ruffles
and flourishes, or gun salutes, women stand at
attention as long as the service members are
saluting.
Ship’s ceremonies, such as christenings,
commissionings, and changes of command, are
always daytime affairs. Attendance of guests
is by invitation only.
If you are away, your spouse is not expected to
represent you at official functions except at the
change of command of a friend, when invited.
Always acknowledge wedding gifts or baby
gifts from shipmates by addressing a thank you
note to the senior member of the group that
sent it.
When you entertain officially, do it in a manner
you can afford.
If others entertain you,
reciprocating is desirable and acceptable. Do
not expect a senior officer to do all the
entertaining.
To call upon newcomers whose rank is close to
yours is a courteous gesture.
Never hesitate to call aides or secretaries for
information or guidance.
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