The correct form for military courtesy
“From now on —” the drill sergeant looks at the suitcase in your right hand — “whatever you carry — suitcase, broom, shovel — you carry it in your left hand. Because you will salute officers with your right hand. Two fingers to your forehead above your right eye, good and snappy.” He demonstrates. “You hold it there until the officer returns your salute. Do it now, three times.”
No Lucky Strike salute
“I will not return your salute. Sergeants are not officers. Practice in the mirror tonight,” He points over his shoulder to the latrine. “You smokers —” that’s most of you recruits — “you may walk while in uniform. You may smoke while in uniform. You may not walk and smoke while in uniform. Keep your cigarette in that left hand. Officers do not want a Lucky Strike salute.” The sergeant does not smile. “You’ll see a movie about military courtesy after chow.”
