Correct Protocol for Meeting with ROTC Major???

Kyguardmom

Kyguardmom

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My 17 year old son, who is a senior in high school, has a meeting scheduled with the ROTC program at a nearby university. The ROO wasn't available, so he set up a meeting with a professor of military science. To clarify, this will be our second visit to this program, and we've met with the ROO before.

The professor is a Major. My son is enlisted Army National Guard, and has just completed BCT. So, can anyone advise on what is appropriate for this meeting, as in should my son go in uniform? Required to salute? Anything else?

Thanks in advance!
 
As an enlisted soldier I'm not sure if there is any protocol to follow. If it were me I would go in class B's and observe military etiquette ( reporting for the meeting and attention until told to do otherwise.) It's indoors so I don't believe saluting will be necessary unless your son meets him or her outside. Just my two cents. Just have your son do what he is supposed to do in the presence of an officer until told to do otherwise, better safe than sorry.

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I wouldn't wear the uniform. He is not on National Guard duty, he is going as a civilian, therefore he should dress as one. And since he would be in civilian clothes (off duty) he shouldn't be required to salute.
 
QA1517 makes a good point, I think this option would be less confusing as well for your son.

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Go in appropriate civilian attire, he is going as a potential Cadet, not as NG soldier. Be respectful, call him sir. The Major will more than likely call him by his first name.
 
I agree, business attire. Show the respect to the Major that he has learned through the NG.
 
Thanks so much for your replies! I'm glad I asked. Appropriate civilian attire/respectful demeanor it is!
 
Good advice here. He's going as a potential student and cadet, so civilian attire (NICE civilian attire, such as pressed khakis and an open collar, button down shirt) is fine. And yes, the Major will most likely call your son by his first name at some point. And your son can use the Major's first name as well, which in this case is always "Major" or "Sir".
 
Absolutely! His first visit to this program was before he enlisted. He wore khakis with a dress shirt and tie - all that good Eagle Scout training. The ROO commented in a positive way about my son's attire, so it was a good choice.

I feel much better knowing what is appropriate now that he's enlisted. Thank you all again for your help.

ps....and in complete agreement regarding the cell phone.
 
Some additional recommendations... Not sure if they are generational or military custom...

Firm handshake
Eye contact
No yea, uhm, nah - yes, no instead
Stand until the Major sits
Sit upright at modified attention - don't cross legs
Bring a portfolio and take notes
Have some prepared questions
Dont chew gum or mints
 
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