Air Force

Reserve Officer Training Corps

Dining-In/Dining Out
Guide
 Preface
This booklet provides information on the broad range of activities associated
with planning and carrying out an AFROTC Dining-In. It is intended for use
by AFROTC cadets who are in the process of planning a dining-in/out. Even
though much of the information contained in the booklet is common to the Air
Force Dining-In, many items are unique to Air Force ROTC. In short, the
purpose of this booklet is to provide information necessary for the proper
planning and convening of the AFROTC Dining-In. Even though this is not a
regulation and therefore not directive in nature, it is strongly recommended
that the guidance given here be adhered to as closely as possible.

KATHLEEN DRAPEAUX, Capt, USAF

Field Leadership

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Updated 2003
Supersedes 1998

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 Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1: Introduction …………………………………………………. 1

History ……..………………………………………………………………
Purpose

CHAPTER 2: Planning …………………………………………………………

Where to Begin …………………………………………………………….

Date and Location ………………………………………………………….
Guest Speaker
………………………………………………………………
Invitations and Place Cards
…………………………………………………
Program……………………………………………………………………..
Decorations
…………………………………………………………………
Budget ……………………………………………………………………...
Photographer ……………………………………………………………….
Gift for the Speaker
…………………………………………………………

CHAPTER 3: Rules and Protocol ………………………………………………

Relationship of the President and Vice
……………………………………..
Dress ……………………………………………………………………….
Arrival and Opening ………………………………………………………..
Invocation ………………………………………………………………….
Addressing the Mess ……………………………………………………….
Toasting ……………………………………………………………………
Infractions of the Mess
……………………………………………………..
Grog Bowl …………………………………………………………………
Dinner ……………………………………………………………………..
Recess ……………………………………………………………………...
Reconvening the Mess …………………………………………………….
Awards and Recognition ………………………………………………….
Guest Speaker’s Address ………………………………………………….

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 Closing and Departure ……………………………………………………
Post Dinner Entertainment ……………………………………………….

CHAPTER 4: Duties of the Committee Members …………………………

President ………………………………………………………………….
Arrangements Officer …………………………………………………….
Protocol Officer ………………………………………………………….
Host Officer ……………………………………………………………..
Mess Officer ……………………………………………………………..
Mr./Madam Vice …………………………………………………………
ATTACHMENTS

1. Planning Guide
2. Sample Agenda
3. Sample Script
4. Sample Seating Arrangement
5. Sample Menu
6. Site Inspection Checklist
7. Rules of the Mess
8. US Air Force Song

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Chapter 1

INTRODUCTION
History

The dining-in represents the most formal aspects of Air Force social life.
The custom is a very old tradition. Although its origin is not clear, formal
feasts to honor military victories and individual/unit achievements have been
customary from pre-Christian Roman legions to King Arthur’s knights in the
sixth century.
The custom of the dining-in is not exclusively military. The tradition as
we know it today is rooted in England where it was a custom in the
monasteries. It was later adopted by the early universities and spread to the
military when the Officers’ Mess was established. With the adoption of the
dining-in by the military, these feasts became more formalized. British
soldiers introduced the custom to colonial America, where it was borrowed by
George Washington’s Continental Army.
These dinners have become traditional in all branches of the armed forces.
In the Air Force and Navy, it is the dining-in; in the Army, the regimental
dinner; in the Marine Corps and Coast Guard, mess night.
The Air Force dining-out format began in the United States Army Air
Corps with General “Hap” Arnold’s “Wing-dings”. The Air Corps’
association with the British in World War II increased its popularity, and since
that time it has been modified into its present form. Faculty members in
Squadron Officer School of Air University began having faculty dining-ins.
They were later included in the curriculum for the students. Because of its
success, dining-ins spread rapidly to other Air Force units. Many of the
original traditions are still very much alive.
Although the term, “dining-in” is used throughout this guide, most of the
information applies to the “dining-out” as well. The only significant
difference between the two is that spouses and guests are invited to attend the
dining-out.

Purpose

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 The dining-in’s purpose is to provide a situation for members of the Air
Force unit to see how ceremony and tradition play an important role in the life
of an Air Force unit. It helps enhance morale and espirt de corps, and
provides an appropriate setting for recognizing individual and unit
achievements. It can also be used to say hello to new unit members and to bid
farewell to those departing.

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 The dining-in has served the Air Force well by giving commanders an
opportunity to meet socially with other members of the unit. It gives members
of all grades an opportunity to create bonds of friendship and better working
relationships in an atmosphere of fellowship and camaraderie.
A dining-in for AFROTC cadets provides experiences and training in a
traditional air Force social function and cultivates a spirit of loyalty, pride and
enthusiasm. It is important for the success of the AFROTC dining-in that
members enjoy the festivities, and those ceremonies are done in tasteful,
dignified manner. Its format should be adhered toast closely as possible.

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Chapter 2

PLANNING
Where to Begin

Begin planning early. Ninety days to one year in advance is not too soon.
You should begin with a tentative date, location and guest speaker well ahead
of time. A Planning committee chaired by the arrangements officer should be
established. Details for the various arrangements should be allocated to
committee members and their specific duties should be outlined. (see chapter
4)
The size of the committee depends on the size of the function. Committee
members must be motivated and action oriented. In addition to the
arrangements officer, other possible members of the committee should include:

• Recorder
• Budget officer
• Invitations and reservations officer
• Food and beverage officer
• Decorations officer
• Protocol officer

Date and Location

The first step of the planning committee should be to select a date and
location. Initially the date should be tentative. Informally check your
prospective guest speaker’s schedule for availability. Make certain the date
doesn’t conflict with other military and university events that might affect
participation.
The location is next. Many universities are located near a military
installation. If it’s convenient, consider using the officer’s open mess. Pay
close attention to what the caterer is providing. If a written contract is
required, ensure that you understand and agree with everything before you
sign. Keep in mind, the signer is legally liable. As a precaution, have the
commander of commandant of cadets review the contract before signing.

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Guest Speaker

The guest speaker can be military or civilian and I expected to address the
mess in an interesting manner on an appropriate subject. Once a firm date and
location have been established, the guest speaker can be officially invited. It is
recommended that an alternate speaker be kept in mind in the event the
original speaker can’t attend.
Care should be taken in choosing a guest speaker. A speaker can make or
break a dining-in. Traditionally, the speaker is a high-ranking military officer,
government, or university official. However, the list of potential speakers is
almost endless.
An official invitation to the prospective speaker should be prepared by the
arrangements officer for the detachment commander’s signature. Make sure to
include the date, place, time and dress of the dining-in as well as description of
the audience and other applicable facts about the occasion. Suggested topics
along with the desired length of the speech can also be included in the
invitation. You should also ask the speaker to provide you with a brief
autobiography, which the President of the mess can use to make a proper
introduction.
Further guidance regarding guest speakers for AFROTC dining-ins can be
found in AFOATSSI 35-101 on the HQ AFOATS web page. AFROTC/PA
should always be notified as soon as the guest speaker has accepted the
invitation.

Invitations and Place Cards

Formal invitations should be sent to all guests and extended in the name of
the President or sponsoring organization. They should be ordered well in
advance and mailed at least three weeks before the dining-in.
Place cards are required only at the head table. Seating arrangements are
illustrated in Attachment 4. A folded, white, 3x5 inch card is acceptable. A
computer-generated copy may be faster and more efficient. They should
always be handwritten and easily read. For two work military titles, use only
the conversational title such as: Lieutenant Colonel Jones would be written
Colonel Jones. Even though place cards are not required at the other tables,
they are appropriate, encouraged and add class.

Program

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 A printed program also adds a touch of class to the dining-in. Contents
may include:

A welcome statement from the commander or other appropriate official.

History of the dining-in.
Protocol of the mess.
Agenda
Schedule of and proper responses to toasts.
Biography of the guest speaker.
Biography of the commander.
History of the sponsoring organization.
Menu.
Rules of the mess.
Words to the Air Force Song.
Brief description of awards to be presented and recipients.

Other items for the program such as photographs may also be appropriate,
depending on budgetary constraints, local practice, and commander’s
preference. A professional program does add a nice touch. Many people
keep them as mementos of the occasion.

Decorations

Table decorations should be limited to floral centerpieces and candelabra.

Formal organizational decorations may also be appropriate. Centerpieces
from a florist should be ordered at least one week in advance; however, if the
location for the dining-in already has a centerpiece, use theirs if appropriate.
Set a budget figure and let the florist work around that.
Other decorations might include unit seals, emblems, flags and colors
TASTEFULY displayed. When in doubt, keep the theme of the decorations
patriotic such as red, white and blue colors.
The American flag is always appropriate. For information on flag protocol
refer to AFMAN 36-2203, Chapter 7. Always ensure the American flag is
properly displayed. If general officers attend, their flags should also be
displayed.

Budget

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 An exotic menu, elaborate decoration, engraved invitations, and a fancy
program could result in exorbitant cost to attendees of the mess. Meals of the
official guests are usually prorated or paid for by members of themes.
With a little imagination, some simple decorations and moving and
patriotic ceremony can turn an otherwise plan dining-in into a “first class”
affair without excessive costs.
After tentative costs are determined, the budget officer should develop an
operating budget. Once that is accomplished, the approximate cost to each
member can be determined.

Photographer

Some units hire a professional photographer. When this is done, make

certain the photographer is briefed beforehand and given a copy of the agenda.
List the specific photographs desired. The photographer should not distract
from the ceremonies or festivities. Instead of hiring a professional
photographer, it may be just as easy to assign a cadet the task or recording the
dining-in on film.

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Gift for the Speaker

A gift to the speaker is not necessary. If presented, it should be of

nominal value. Gifts found most appropriate include such university
mementos as T-shirts, paperweights, ceramic mugs, banners, hats, etc. HQ
AFOATS/SDPP (AFOATS Awards and Units Recognition Program;
AFOATSI 36-101)

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Chapter 3

RULES AND PROTOCOL

Relationship of the President and Vice

The President of the mess is usually the cadet wing commander, or the
commander of the unit holding the dining-in and sets the standards for
members of the mess. The President is the sold judge regarding toasts,
requests, infractions and appropriate punishment for infractions, and he or she
retains the authority to control rowdy, boisterous or improper behavior.
Specific duties of the President are listed in Chapter 4.
The Vice President serves as the President’s principal assistant and plays
the role of interpreter between the President and members of the mess. It is
essential that Mr. Or Madam Vice be totally familiar with the customs and
traditions of the mess. This is an extremely demanding position, and the
President should take care in choosing an articulate and bright cadet officer for
these duties. The success of the dining-in hinges largely on the imagination
and humor of this individual. Essentially Mr./Madam Vice keeps the program
moving and stimulates table conversion through keen wit and impromptu
speaking.
Traditionally, the Vice President sits alone at the back of the dining room
facing the President. This position allows him or her to observe the
proceedings to monitor the flow of the program. Convenience and the
physical layout of the dining room might dictate seating in another location;
however, the Vice President should never be seated near or at the head table.
(Refer to Atch 4) A more detailed list of the Vice’s duties can be found in
Chapter 4.

Dress

Proper attire for the formal portion of the dining-in for all cadets is either
the semi-formal uniform as prescribed in AFOATSI-36-2008. (HQ
AFOATS/POC: AFROTC/DOS) or the mess dress. POC cadets are
encouraged to purchase the mess dress which is the uniform traditionally worn
at dining-ins. Cadets at summer field training encampments may wear the light
blue shirt/blouse with short sleeves.

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 Detachment officers and field training staff officers wear the mess dress
uniform. Civilian guests usually wear semi-formal or business attire. The
proper civilian dress should be stated in the invitation. Retired officers
attending the dining-in may wear either civilian attire or the mess dress.
Enlisted members attending the dining-in wear the mess dress or semi-formal
uniform.

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 It is customary to have a brief period (commonly referred to as the cocktail
period) before the dinner to arrive and meet guests. This period usually takes
the form of a reception or cocktail period. If alcoholic beverages are served
during this period, one should take care not to overindulge.
Each member of the mess should arrive not later than ten minutes prior to
dinner. The Mr./Madam Vice will sound the dinner chimes to direct the mess
to proceed to the dining room. Members should enter the dining room and
stand quietly behind their chairs. Drinks and lighted smoking materials should
never be taken into the dining room.
Once the mess has assembled and before the head table enters Mr./Madam
Vice should explain proper protocol procedures for the evening such as how to
propose a toast from the floor; when women guests stand; the correct
response for person(s) being toasted; how to request permission to leave the
mess before adjournment; etc. The President should brief the head table
members on their protocol actions before entering the mess. This will ensure a
snappy response and relieve embarrassing confusion.
The typical table arrangement for a dining-in is the banquet style of T, U,
or E formation. Ease of passage and space between place settings should be
considered when deciding on specific arrangements. Usually, Mr./Madam
Vice is seated alone at the end of the room opposite the head table.
Head table seating is strictly according to protocol, with the senior
honored guest to the right of the President, the next senior person to the left of
the President, and so forth. Usually, the senior honored guest is the guest
speaker; however, if this is not the case, it is customary to informally ask the
senior honored quest if he or she will cede that position to the guest speaker.
It is never proper to seat guests at the ends of a table.
If the means are available, consider playing ruffles and flourishes (if
appropriate, depending on the guest of honor). Also consider a posting of the
colors ceremony appropriate as well. These are not mandatory, but enhance
the overall program.
There are other ceremonies that may be used to open the mess. A sword
ceremony has been successfully used by some units where a sheathed sword is
brought to the President. The President then removes the sword from its
scabbard and places it on the table. This symbolizes that the dining-in is a
time when warriors lay aside their arms and enjoy the fellowship and
camaraderie of their companions.
There are other ceremonies that might enhance the program, limited only
by imagination and good taste!

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WHILE THESE CEREMONIES MAY ADD “CLASS”, TOO MANY OR
POORLY DONE CEREMONIES DETRACT FROM THE SUCCESS OF
THE DINING-IN. KEEP THEM SIMPLE, WELL REHEARSED AND
LIMITED.

Invocation

After the mess has been officially opened, the chaplain presents the
invocation. The chaplain is usually a cadet who has been assigned the duties
of chaplain. However, Air Force chaplains or local clergy may be used. If
space permits, the chaplain normally is a member of the head table. Once the
invocation has been given, formal toasting begins.

Addressing the Mess

A member of the mess may wish to propose a toast from the floor, raise a
point or order, or identify infractions of the mess. The proper way to do this
is to rise and state, “Madam/Madam Vice, a point of order.” When recognized
by the Vice they will identify themselves, and state their business. The use of
poetry or the interjection of humor is appropriate and highly recommended.
Madam/Madam Vice will interpret the issue for the President. When the
President decides what action is appropriate, this decision is relayed to the
member by Mr./Madam Vice. Toasts or punishments, etc. may then be
administered.

Toasting

Toasting is an important part of the dining-in. The custom is universal. It

came into wide acceptance after the effects of poison were discovered. When
two people, who might be enemies, drank from the same source at the same
time with no ill effects, a mutual trust was established. Once this rapport was
certain, discussions could continue on a more cordial basis. Today, toasting is
a simple courtesy to the person being honored.
Traditionally, toasting is done with wine. A non-alcoholic substitute must
be considered for those who don’t’ drink. Water is a suitable substitute.
Toasts are usually made to individuals. However, occasionally “Toast to
the colors” is given. If the colors are toasted, they should be first in the order
of toasts. The next toast is to the heads of any allied nations represented at
the dining-in. If no allied officers are present, the President of the mess
proposes a toast to the President of the United States. Mr. or Madam Vice

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proposes a toast to the Chief of Staff of the US Air Force, except when a
sister service member is present. If so, the President proposes a toast to the
sister service in the following order: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and the Air
Force.
It isn’t necessary to proper to drain the glass the completion of each toast.
A mere touch of the glass to the lips satisfies the ceremonial requirements.
The mess always stands while toasting.

Toast should be worded in the following manner:

“To the Commander in Chief” (Toast proposal)
“To the President” (Mess response)

“To the Chief of Staff, United States Air Force” (Toast proposal)
“To the Chief of Staff” (Mess response)

After the toast to the Chief of Staff, all other response to toasts are “Hear,
Hear”. Once the chief of Staff of the Air Force has been toasted, there should
be a toast with water to all of our brothers- and sisters-in arms that have
served our country throughout our history as a nation. When toast are
concluded, the President should seat the mess. Guests at the head table are
then introduced by the appropriate member of guest’s escort.
It is customary to propose toasts to special guests after they have been
introduced. When this is done, members of the mess stand, guests remain
seated. The President should always stand while addressing the mess.
After the toast to the Chief of Staff, members may be recognized to
propose other appropriate toasts or advise the President that a toast has been
omitted. In such a case, the member will stand, identify himself or herself, and
address the Vice by saying, “Mr./Madam Vice, I would like to propose a
toast.” The Vice informs the President and receives his approval. Once the
President approves the toast, the members stand (always allow enough time
for the mess to stand and become quiet before beginning the toast). The toast
may then be given by either the Vice or the member who proposed it. This
kind of interaction gives the Vice an opportunity to add a bit of humor the
occasion by giving the toast in the form of a poem, verse, or limerick, etc.
Some dining-in rules do not allow extemporaneous toasts from the floor.
Others encourage gag-types toasts. The decision must be made well in
advance. If gag-type toasts are allowed, toasts may be made from the floor.
Good taste is always the order of the day. Often times these toasts are made
in the form of a poem or verse. Excessive toasting can significantly delay the
program and cause many of the members to lose enthusiasm. The President

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should always maintain control of themes and ensure that the evening
proceeds as scheduled.
If a rigid time schedule must be followed, additional toasts beyond those
required by protocol may be written out and given to the President before the
mess is convened. He/she will determine whether or not they are appropriate
and give them to Mr./Madam Vice. The President can then plan for them in
the agenda. In this case, extemporaneous toasts will not be made from the
floor.

Infractions of the Mess

At various points during the dining-in, a member may be punished for

violating the rules of the mess (Atch 7). Punishment might include singing a
song, telling a joke, being sent to the grog bowl, or some other activity
determined by the President.
Infractions of the mess may be noted at any time. Members bring
infractions to the attention of the President through Mr./Madam Vice by
raising a point of order. The President makes the final decision. Guest and
dignitaries should never be subjected to punishment for violating the rules of
the mess.
As in the case of toasting, excessive punishment of members for violating
the rules of the mess can detract from the program.

Grog Bowl

The grog bowl is not a necessary part of the dining-in and is not normally a
part of the dining-out. The use of the grog bowl is a custom that varies greatly
among organizations. Its use is rooted in British custom when Admiral
Edward Vernon (1684-1757) diluted British sailors’ daily ration of rum with
water. Because Admiral Vernon was in the habit of wearing a program cloak,
his crew nicknamed him “Old Grog” and his ration of rum became known as
grog.
Some units have a grog mixing ceremony where the contents of the grog are
combined along with humorous narratives from the vice. While the grog may
be unsavory looking by adding such things as food coloring, dry ice,
worchestershire sauce, tomato juice, etc., it should be drinkable. The unsavory
nature of the grog should not be overly stressed. The “punishment” should be
the open recognition and acknowledgment of the members’ infractions and the
requirement for them to properly address the grog in front of their peers.

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 At AFROTC dining-in/out the grog will always be non-
alcoholic, and its use limited to 15 minutes.

The bowl is usually located on Mr./Madam Vice’s table. When the

President directs a violator to the grog bowl, the individual proceeds to the
bowl promptly, squaring all corners in a military fashion. Upon arriving at the
grow bowl, the violator:

a. Salutes the grog.

b. Fill the cup with grog (at least 1/3 full).
c. Drains the grog from the cup without removing it from the lips.
d. Tips the cup upside down over his/her head.
e. Replace the cup, again salutes the grog, and returns to his/her seat. The
violator is not permitted to speak during this process.

Dinner

Once the invocation by the chaplain and the formal toasting is complete,
dinner can be served. Courses are always served to the head table first.
Madam/Madam Vice should be served immediately after the head table.
Toasting and other activities during the course of dinner will take up so much
of the Vice’s time that he or she won’t have an opportunity to eat unless
served early.
Before serving the entrée, the President may add some humor to the meal
to make certain it is fit for consumption by members of the mess. The Vice
may compose an ode or poem to the meal.

Recess

At the time scheduled for recess, the President raps the gavel three times
to gain attention. When the mess is silent, the President raps twice and
announces a short recess so the dishes may be cleared. Members should stand
by their places until the head table departs, then the members of themes
follow. Arrangements should be made in advance with the caterer to have the
wine and wine glasses remain on the tables to toast the guest of honor
following his/her presentation.

Reconvening the Mess

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 At the end of the recess, Mr./Madam Vice sounds the chimes and directs
everyone to proceed to the dining room. Once again, drinks and lighted
smoking materials should not be taken into the dining room following the
recess.
When the members reach their seats, they stand directly behind their
chairs. The President then leads the head table party back into the dining
room. The mess is seated with one rap of the gavel. If dessert and coffee or
tea is part of the menu, they are usually served at this time. Once again,
drinks and lighted smoking materials should not be taken into the dining room
following the recess.
When members reach their seats, they stand directly behind their chairs.
The President then leads the head table party back into the dining room. The
mess is seated with one rap of the gavel. If dessert and coffee or tea are part
of the menu, they are usually served at this time the lamp is lit.

Awards and Recognition

If individual and/or unit achievements are to be recognized, an appropriate

ceremony should be arranged. This ceremony should take place during the
formal portion of the dining-in. A convenient time is immediately preceding
the Guest of Honor’s speech. Under no circumstances should any ceremony
follow the speech, the highlight of the dining-in. Once the awards have been
given, a toast to the recipients(s) may be in order.

Guest Speaker’s Address

After dessert, recognition and awards, or other scheduled activities, the

President introduces the Guest Speaker. The address usually lasts 10 to 20
minutes. The guest speaker’s address should be considered the highlight of the
dining-in. At no time should any other formal activities such as mini-
speeches, award presentations, points of order, etc., follow the speaker’s
presentation. After thanking the speaker, a toast is usually proposed to
him/her by the Vice.

Closing and Departure

After the toast to the Guest Speaker, the President should recognize those
who organized the dining-in and thank Mr./Madam Vice. If desired, the colors
may then be retired.

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 If there is to be post-dinner entertainment, the President should invite
everyone to stay and enjoy the festivities. The President adjourns the mess
with two raps of the gavel and an announcement that the mess is adjourned.
After adjournment, the members should remain long enough to pay their
respects to the Guest of Honor.

Post Dinner Entertainment

If there is to be an informal portion of the dining-in, such as a dance, there

should be a distinct break between the formal and the informal portions. This
can be accomplished by having the mess adjourn to the lounge following the
formal portion. The dining room can then be cleared and prepared for the
informal ceremonies.

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Chapter 4

DUTIES OF THE COMMITTEE

MEMBERS
The following is a list of duties of each committee member associated with
planning and conducting a dining-in. This list is not necessarily complete.

President

• Selects tentative date and location

• Appoints and briefs arrangements to officers
• Selects guest speakers and alternates
• Selects firm date and location
• Oversees entire organization and operation of the dining-in
• Sets budget ceiling
• Arranges for chaplain to deliver invocation
• Appoints and briefs Mr./Madam Vice
• Prepares list of official and personal guests
• Prepares agenda
• Appoints host officers
• Receives all guests before dinner
• Opens and closes themes
• Introduces guests to the mess
• Calls on Mr./Madam Vice to propose toasts
• Announces lighting of the smoking lamp

Arrangements Officer

• Informally checks availability of proposed guest speaker

• Prepares letter of invitation to guest speaker
• Determines music requirements
• Determines attendance requirements

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 • Selects menu and wine
• Enters contract with caterer (after coordinating with the PAS or COC)
• Establishes tentative cost per person
• Prepares and directs advertising
• Orders invitations and place cards
• Publishes agenda
• Selects and acquires Guest Speaker’s gift
• Prepares and sends formal invitations to all guests
• Arranges for ceremonies (color guard, etc.)
• Reserves quarters for Guest Speaker and other official guests (if
appropriate)
• Designs program
• Arranges for photographer
• Orders flowers
• Determines firm attendance figures and notifies caterer
• Ensures public address system is available
• Ensures rostrum is available
• Obtains biography on guest of honor
• Determines table and seating arrangements
• Gathers accouterments of the mess (gavel, chimes, grog bowl, smoking
lamp, etc.)
• Prepares seating chart
• Reserves distinguished visitor parking
• Performs on-site inspection
• Positions place cards and programs
• Positions flags and trophies
• Ensures all awards to be given are at hand
• Removes accouterments of the mess
• Prepares after action report

Protocol Officer

• Assists the arrangements officer and host officer, especially in

determining seating arrangements and any other matters of protocol
• Prepares letter of appreciation to the Guest Speaker and other if
appropriate

Host Officer

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 • Briefs guests on customs of the mess, such as when to rise during
toast, proper dress, time, place, agenda, etc.
• If guests are from out of town, make arrangements to meet them when
they arrive, arrange for transportation as required
• Ensures that each guest is properly introduced to the President of the
mess, other guests, and as many of the members as possible
• Ensures that each guest is always in the company of several members
of the mess, yet takes care that no individual or group of individuals
monopolizes the guest
• Briefs guests on seating and other physical arrangements of the mess
• Upon departure, bids farewell on behalf of all members of the mess

Mess Officer

• Reserves the dining room and arranges convenient lounge facilities with
adequate service for all personnel attending
• Decides on a suitable menu
• Coordinates time of food courses according to the President’s
instructions
• Arranges for mess charges to be paid (Guest of honor and perhaps
some others, depending on desires of the committee, are generally not
charged.)

Mr./Madam Vice

• Opens the lounge at the appointed time

• Sounds dinner chimes
• Prepares toasts as directed by the President. Composition of
appropriate poems or witticisms in good taste relating to personalities
and/or organizations present in encouraged
• Leaves the mess last

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Attachment 1 Planning Guide

DAY WHO ACTION

89 President Select tentative date and location.
89 President Appoint and brief the arrangements officer.
89 President Select desired guest speaker and alternate(s).
80 Arrangements
Officer Informally check on availability of proposed
Guest Speaker
75 Arrangements
Officer Prepare letter of invitation to the Guest Speaker.
60 President Select firm date and location.
60 Arrangements
Officer Determine musical requirements.
55 President Determine attendance requirements.
55 President Set budget ceiling.
45 Mess Officer Select menu. Enter contract with caterer. Make
provisions for payment.
45 Arrangements Prepare and distribute advertising to members
Officer
45 Arrangements Order invitations and place cards.
Officer
45 President Appoint and brief the Vice
40 Members Submit names of personal guests
40 Arrangements Prepare program. Print one per person plus 10
Officer percent.
35 President Prepare list of official and personal guests.
30 Arrangements
Officer Select Guest Speaker’s gift.
30 President Appoint or invite the Chaplain (if appropriate).
30 Arrangements
Officer Prepare formal invitations for all guests.
29 Protocol Officer Send formal invitations to all guests.
20 Arrangements
Officer Arrange for Color Guard and/or other ceremonial
activities.
15 Arrangements From responses and RSVP’s, compile final guest
Officer list. Collect fees from members.
15 President Appoint and brief host officers.

25
15 Arrangements Arrange for quarters for Guest Speaker and/or
Officer other official guests if appropriate.

26
Attachment 1 (continued) Planning Guide

DAY WHO ACTION

15 Arrangements
Officer Arrange for photographer.
15 Arrangements
Officer Order flowers.
10 Arrangements Determine firm attendance figures. Notify
Officer caterer.
10 Arrangements
Officer Ensure public address system is available.
5 Arrangements
Officer Finalize table and seating arrangements.
5 Arrangements Gather accouterments of the mess (gavel, grog
Officer bowl, chimes, smoking lamp, etc.).
3 Arrangements
Officer Prepare seating chart.
2 Arrangements
Officer Reserve distinguished visitor(s) parking.
8 hrs Arrangements
Officer Perform on-site inspection.
2 hrs Arrangements
Officer Position place cards and programs.
30 min Arrangements
Officer Make final check of the lounge and dining area.
0 min Vice Ensures lounge opens at scheduled time and
sounds dinner chimes when appropriate.
+1 Arrangements
Officer Remove accouterments of the mess.
+1 Arrangements Pay caterer (This may have been done earlier,
Officer depending on contract.).
+1 Protocol Officer Prepare letter of appreciation to guest speaker
and any other appropriate individuals.
+2 Arrangements
Officer Prepare after action report.

27
Attachment 2 Sample Agenda

1800 Lounge opens for refreshments. Host officers in place. Members

and guests begin arriving.
1801 Lounge closes. Cocktail period ends. Mr./Madam Vice rings
dinner chimes. Members and guests assemble in dining room.
1830 Mess is formally opened by the President.
1831 Invocation by the chaplain.
1834 Formal toasting.
1837 President seats the mess. Welcoming remarks are made. Members
of the head table are introduced. (Guest speaker is introduced last.)
President polls the mess for introduction of other guests.
1840 Toast by Mr./Madam vice to the guests.
1841 President seats the mess. Dinner is served.
1930 Recess.
1945 Mess reconvenes. Awards program.
2000 Introduction of the guest speaker and speaker’s address.
2015 President thanks guest speaker.
2020 Toast to the guest speaker.
2021 Closing remarks by President.
2023 President retires the colors.
2025 President adjourns the mess. (Two raps on the gavel) Lounge is
opened. (If informal activities are to follow the dining-in, they
should be included in the agenda.)

28
Attachment 3 Sample Script

VICE -1820- Sound dinner chimes in lounge and announce: “Please

take your placed in the dining room.” Everyone will
go to their place at the table and remain standing
behind their chairs. Vice will go to his/her place and
proceed with protocol briefing. Head table members
assemble in the lounge for protocol briefing before
entry.

VIVE Once the members of the head table are ready to

enter the vice will say: “Ladies and gentlemen, the
distinguished members of the head table.”

PRESIDENT -1830- After the members of the head table are in place, the
President of the mess (POM) will approach the
rostrum and say: “COLOR GUARD, POST THE
COLORS.” If the guest of honor is a general officer,
ruffles and flourishes may be played as the color
guard leaves the mess.

POM - (Rap gavel once)

CHAPLAIN -1832- Invocation

POM -1834- “Ladies and gentlemen, I propose a toast to The

Colors.”

MEMBERS - “To the Colors.”

POM - “Ladies and gentlemen, I propose a toast to the

commander in chief.”

MEMBERS - “To the President.”

VICE - “Mr. President.”

POM - “Yes, Mr./Madam Vice?”

VICE - “I propose a toast to the Chief of Staff of the United

29
 States’ Air Force.”

MEMBERS - “To the Chief of Staff.”

VICE - “I PROPOSE A TOAST TO THE C OMMANDER AIR

EDUCATION AND TRAINING C OMMAND.”

MEMBERS - “H EAR, HEAR”

VICE - “I PROPOSE A TOAST TO THE C OMMANDER OF

AFROTC.”

MEMBERS - “H EAR, HEAR”

POM -1837- “L ADIES AND GENTLEMEN, PLEASE BE SEATED.”

“G OOD EVENING, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, ON
BEHALF OF ALL THE MEMBERS OF THE AFRTOC
DETACHMENT ____, LET ME EXTEND A HEARTY
WELCOME AND SINCERE THANKS FOR YOUR
ATTENDANCE AT OUR (Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer)
DINING-IN/OUT. WE ARE HONORED TO HAVE YOU
SHARE THIS VERY SPECIAL EVENT WITH US.”

Background information of the dining-in and certain

rules of protocol might be mentioned here.

POM “I HAVE THE DISTINCT PLEASURE THIS EVENING OF

INTRODUCING OUR HEAD TABLE GUESTS. WOULD
YOU PLEASE STAND AND BE RECOGNIZED AS I
INTRODUCED YOU?”

INTRODUCTIONS: (Guest speaker should be

introduced last. After guests at the head table are
introduced, the President asks the mess to introduce
any special guests in attendance. If there ate any,
they are introduced by their escort.)

VICE -1840- “M R./M ADAM PRESIDENT”

POM - “YES, MR./M ADAM VICE?”

30
VICE - “I PROPOSE A TOAST TO OUR DISTINGUISHED
GUESTS.”

MEMBERS - “H EAR, HEAR”

POM -1842- Seat the mess and reply: “Mr./Madam Vice!”

31
VICE - “YES, MR./M ADAM PRESIDENT?”

POM - “T HE MESS HUNGERS.”

VICE - “YES, MR./M ADAM PRESIDENT?” I WILL INQUIRE

ABOUT THE MEAL .”

Vice quickly walks to the kitchen for a few seconds,

then returns.
VICE “M R./M ADAM PRESIDENT, DINNER IS READY.”

POM “EXCELLENT, WOULD YOU INSPECT THE FOOD?”

A tray is brought to the vice. He/she tastes the food

and replies:

M R./M ADAM PRESIDENT, THE FOOD IS SKILLFULLY

PRE PARED AND FIT FOR THIS OCCASION.”

POM “VERY GOOD. DINNER WILL NOW BE SERVED.”

Further toasting can occur during dinner.
Violators of the rules of themes may also be
punished during dinner. This too will NOT exceed 15
minutes.

POM “M R./M ADAM VICE, WHAT IS THAT OBJECT ON

YOUR TABLE?”

VICE “M R./M ADAM PRESIDENT, IT IS A GROG BOW1.”

VICE “YES, A BOWL FILLED WITH FOUL FLUIDS THAT

CARRY PUNGENT BOUQUETS. T HEY ARE A
PENANCE FOR THOSE WHO HAVE VIOLATED THE
RULES OF THE MESS.”

POM “WILL THE GROG BE OFFENSIVE TO ANY MEMBER OF

THE MESS?”

VICE “OF COURSE!”

32
POM “YOU SPOKE OF VIOLATIONS. H AVE RULES BEEN
PUBLISHED?”

33
VICE “T O BE SURE, BUT I’M CERTAIN THERE ARE THOSE 10
PERCENT THAT DIDN’T GET THE WORD. L ET THEM
NOW BE RECOGNIZED AND TAKE THEIR TRIP TO THE
GROG.”

POM “D O I HEAR ANY VIOLATIONS OF RULES FROM THE

FLOOR?’
After 10 to 15 minutes the vice will state:

VICE “M R./M ADAM PRESIDENT!”

POM “YES, MR./M ADAM VICE?”

VICE “VIOLATIONS ARE TOO RAMPANT. YET, I FEEL

ENOUGH HAVE BEEN DEALT WITH, JUSTICE HAS
BEEN SERVED AND THE DECORUM OF THE MESS HAS
BEEN RESTORED.”

POM “I AGREE , M R./M ADAM VICE THAT HAVING BEEN

ACCOMPLISHED, PUNISHMENT WILL EASE .”
Once the main course is complete, the POM may
desire to light the smoking lamp.

POM -1930- (Raps gavel twice.)

Duties are cleared. Dessert and fresh wine are set.

VICE -1940- Mr./Madam Vice rings chimes and announces

assembly.
(Members of themes reassemble in the dining room
and stand behind their chairs.)
(Members of the head table assemble in the lounge.)

VICE -1945- “L ADIES AND GENTLEMEN, THE DISTINGUISHED

MEMBERS OF THE HEAD TABLE !”
Members come to attention

POM (Rap gavel once)

“L ADIES AND G ENTLEMEN, THE MESS WILL COME
TO ORDER. P LEASE BE SEATED.”

34
VICE “M R./M ADAM PRESIDENT!”

35
POM “M R./M ADAM VICE?”

POM “L ADIES AND G ENTLEMEN, THE THIRD COURSE IS

NOW SERVED. ENJOY YOUR DESSERT.”

POM - - “IT IS NOW TIME TO RECOGNIZE SPECIAL

ACHIEVEMENTS.”
(Recognition and awards are presented now.)

POM -2000- “IT IS NOW MY HONOR TO PRESENT OUR GUEST

SPEAKER FOR TONIGHT.”
(Give the biography of the guest of Honor. Be
thorough, but brief.)

- Guest speaker’s address.

-2015- “G ENERAL ______, ON BEHALF OF AFROTC

D ETACHMENT ____, I OFFER OUR SINCERE THANKS
FOR YOUR INSPIRING WORDS.”

POM -2020- “M R./M ADAM VICE, A TOAST?”

VICE “T O OUR DISTINGUISHED SPEAKER!”

MEMBERS “H EAR, HEAR”

POM -2021- (Closing remarks)

POM -2023- “WILL THE COLOR GUARD NOW RETIRE THE

COLORS?”

COLOR (Retires the Colors)

GUARD
POM -2025- (Two raps of the gavel)
“T HE M ESS IS ADJOURNED. T HE LOUNGE IS NOW
OPEN.”

36
Attachment 4 Sample Seating Arrangements

Flag Stand

Head Table

Trophy
Table

Mister-Madam
Vice

37
Attachment 4 (cont.) Sample Seating Arrangements

Flag Stand

Head Table

Trophy Table

Membership

Mister-Madam
Vice

38
Attachment 4 (cont.) Sample Seating Arrangements

Flag Stand

Head Table

Trophy Table

Membership

Mister-Madam
Vice

39
Attachment 4 (cont.) Sample Seating Arrangements

Flag Stand

Head Table

Trophy Table

Membership

Mister-Madam
Vice

40
41
Attachment 4 (cont.) Sample Seating Arrangements

Flag Stand

Head Table

Trophy Table

Vice

Mister-Madam

42
Attachment 5 Sample Menu

Fruit Cup

Green Salad – Assorted Dressing

Roast Prime Rib of Beef Au Jus

Baked Potato

Peas

Rolls and Butter

Cheesecake

Iced Tea or Coffee

43
Attachment 6 Site Inspection Checklist

1. Does the speaker and microphone system work properly?

2. Is there a spare bulb for the rostrum light?

3. Are flags and other decorations properly displayed?

4. Is there a gavel at the President’s place?

5. Are dinner chimes at the Vice’s place?

6. Is there a microphone at the Vice’s place?

7. Has the grog been concocted?

8. If awards are to be presented, are they in place?

9. Is the seating chart (if one desired) displayed in a convenient location?

10. If organizational trophies are to be displayed, are they in place?

11. Are parking areas reserved and marked for distinguished guests?

12. Is everything according to plan?

44
Attachment 7 Rules of the Mess

The following is a list of rules under which the mess will be conducted.
They are designed to conform to tradition and promote levity. Violators are
subject to the wrath and mischievousness of Mr./Madam Vice (with the
President’s permission, of course). All assigned penalties will be carried out
before the membership.

1. Thou shalt not be late.

2. Thou shalt make every effort to meet all guests.
3. Thou shalt move to the mess when thee hear’s the chimes and remain
standing until seated by the President.
4. Thou shalt not bring drink or lighted smoking materials into the mess.
5. Thou shalt not leave the mess whilst convened. Military protocol
overrides all calls of nature.
6. Thou shalt participate in all toasts unless thyself or they group is being
honored with a toasts unless thyself or thy group is being honored with a
toast.
7. Thou shalt ensure that thy glass is always charged while toasting.
8. Thou shalt keep toasts and comments within the limits of good taste and
mutual respect. Degrading or insulting remarks will be frowned upon by
the membership. However, good-natured needing is ENCOURAGED.
9. Thou shalt not murder the Queen’s English.
10. Thou shalt not open the hanger doors (talk shop).
11. Thou shalt always use the proper toasting procedure.
12. Thou shalt fall into disrepute with thy peers if the pleats of thy
cummerbund are inverted.
13. Thou shalt also be painfully regarded if thy clip-on bow tie rides at an
obvious list.
14. Thou shalt consume thy meal in a manner becoming gentlepersons.
15. Thou shalt not laugh at ridiculously funny comments unless the President
first shows approval by laughing.
16. Thou shalt not overindulge thyself in alcoholic beverages.
17. Thou shalt not question the decisions of the President, otherwise known
as caviling.
18. When the mess opens or adjourns, thou shalt rise and wait for the
members at the head table to take their places or depart.
19. Thou shalt not begin eating a course of the meal before members of the
head table.

45
20. Thou shalt not engage in conversation while another member has the floor.
21. Thou shalt not wear all ill-fitted or discolored mess jacket.
22. Thou shalt enjoy thyself to thy fullest.

46
Attachment 8 The US Air Force Song

OFF WE GO INTO THE WILD BLUE YONDER,

CLIMBING HIGH INTO THE SUN
HERE THEY COME, ZOOMING TO MEET OUR THUNDER;
AT ‘EM BOYS, GIVE’ER THE GUN!
DOWN WE DIVE, SPOUTING OUR FLAME FROM UNDER,
OFF WITH ONE HELL-OF- A ROAR!
WE LIVE IN FAME OR GO DOWN IN FLAME.
(SHOUT) NOTHING WILL STOP THE U.S. AIR FORCE!

47