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6 FEBRUARY 2014
GUIDE TO
CIVIL AIR PATROL
PROTOCOL
PUBLISHED BY
NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS CIVIL AIR PATROL
MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, ALABAMA
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE................................................................................................................................................. 3
CHAPTER 1 ‒ WING/REGION STAFF MEETINGS AND COMMANDER'S CALLS ...................... 4
CHAPTER 2 ‒ CEREMONIES/TYPES OF CEREMONIES .................................................................. 5
CHAPTER 3 ‒ THE AMERICAN FLAG................................................................................................ 7
CHAPTER 4 ‒ INVITATIONS TO CIVIL AIR PATROL AND OTHER DIGNITARIES TO
CONFERENCES AND SPECIAL ACTIVITIES PLANNING ......................................................... 9
CHAPTER 5 ‒ RANK AND PRECEDENCE ....................................................................................... 11
CHAPTER 6 ‒ OFFICIAL CIVIL AIR PATROL SOCIAL FUNCTIONS .......................................... 12
INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................. 12
CHAPTER 7 ‒ HONORS ACCORDED DISTINGUISHED VISITORS (DV) .................................... 17
CHAPTER 8 ‒ PARTICIPATION IN FUNERAL CEREMONIES FOR DECEASED CIVIL AIR
PATROL MEMBERS CIVIL AIR PATROL POLICY ................................................................... 20
ATTACHMENT 1 ‒ CHECKLISTS FOR AWARD CEREMONY ..................................................... 22
ATTACHMENT 2 ‒ AWARDS CEREMONY SAMPLE AGENDA .................................................. 24
ATTACHMENT 3 ‒ RETIREMENT CEREMONY SAMPLE AGENDA .......................................... 25
ATTACHMENT 4A ‒ CHANGE OF COMMAND SAMPLE AGENDA (SAMPLE A) .................... 26
ATTACHMENT 4B ‒ CHANGE OF COMMAND SAMPLE AGENDA (SAMPLE B) .................... 28
ATTACHMENT 5 ‒ SAMPLE LETTER OF INVITATION ................................................................ 29
ATTACHMENT 6 ‒ SAMPLE DINING-IN AGENDA ....................................................................... 30
ATTACHMENT 7 ‒ PROTOCOL FUNCTION CHECKLIST............................................................. 31
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PREFACE
INTRODUCTION
Protocol, as defined by Webster's Dictionary, "is a code prescribing strict adherence to correct etiquette
and procedure (as in diplomatic exchange and in the military services)." It not only requires knowledge
and awareness of regulations and numerous other references, but good common sense and a lot of
flexibility on the part of the protocol officer.
The position of protocol officer is highly visible, stressful, pressure packed, extremely dynamic,
rewarding and exciting. It requires a person who is dedicated to precise adherence to regulations and to
doing the job right.
In most cases, the Civil Air Patrol protocol officer will focus on the activities of the commander and will
be concerned with all ceremonies and special activities such as Wing and Region Conferences and CAP
Command Council Meetings involving commanders and visiting dignitaries.
At the end of this guide is a list of references which may be used by the protocol officer for further
detailed information and guidance. It is highly recommended that newly assigned protocol officers
establish a library or file of those references and add any additional information they may obtain from
other sources.
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CHAPTER 1 ‒ WING/REGION STAFF MEETINGS AND COMMANDER'S CALLS
To provide an atmosphere of formality, Wing and Region Staff meetings and Commander's Calls should
be conducted in the following manner:
1. Contact the Commander to determine the date, time and location of the staff meeting or Commander's
Call.
2. Assure the conference room has been properly prepared for the appropriate meeting, i.e., name plates
in proper places, sufficient seating, cleanliness, etc.
3. Assure that all attendees are present and in their places approximately five minutes prior to the
scheduled meeting time. Make note of new staff members and visiting dignitaries and provide a list to the
Commander for proper recognition.
4. Advise the Commander that the audience is assembled. Then, escort the Commander to the
conference room. Precede the Commander and call the room to attention.
Prior to the start of the meeting, the Commander may wish to designate someone to lead the group in the
pledge of allegiance and have the chaplain offer a prayer. Upon the conclusion of the opening
ceremonies, the Commander will direct the group to take their seats and proceed with the meeting. Upon
the conclusion of the meeting, the chief of staff or other designated staff officer will call the room to
attention and escort the Commander out.
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CHAPTER 2 ‒ CEREMONIES/TYPES OF CEREMONIES
Commanders and unit members usually are involved in four major types of ceremonies which are
addressed in this pamphlet: Awards, Promotions, Retirement and Change of Command activities.
AWARDS CEREMONY
Awards ceremonies recognize significant contributions or acts by an individual, group or unit on a local,
wing, region or national level. Presentations may include letters, plaques, medals or other means of
recognition. These ceremonies allow unit members to become more aware of the significant past
performance by the persons to be honored.
PROMOTION CEREMONY
Promotion ceremonies recognize an individual's potential for additional responsibility. Past performance
obviously is a contributing factor, but is not the only one. As individuals develop their personal skills
through training, education and proven performance, they receive added opportunity for advancement.
Types of promotion ceremonies vary, but they allow unit members to participate in and observe the
important transition from one rank to another for the selected individuals.
RETIREMENT CEREMONY
Retirement ceremonies traditionally highlight individual contributions to an organization for a lengthy
period of service. They combine elements of awards and promotion ceremonies. At the end of a career,
recognition should be given to the many positive contributions provided. Retirement ceremonies also
serve notice to others that the person retiring has ended his or her active affiliation with the unit.
Retirement ceremonies signal a time for someone else to take on the responsibilities vacated by the
retiree.
CEREMONY CHECKLISTS
Good ceremonies don't just happen. They must be preceded by quality planning. Then the details must
be completed in a timely manner. The more effective planning which goes into an event, the better the
event will be. The following checklists have been designed to give any project officer a suitable means of
conducting the types of ceremonies mentioned herein. Always remember that you can seldom have too
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much detailed planning. As long as all of the "glitches" are corrected before the ceremony begins,
everyone will be okay. Strive for a perfect ceremony every time. Everyone will appreciate the ceremony
more, and the special feeling you create will become a positive lasting memory for all concerned. Many
CAP events will honor several individuals and will require additional attention to detail. It is not possible
to cover all situations, but most are covered herein. Remember, common sense and courtesy should
prevail, and when a problem arises which project officers cannot resolve, they should seek a command
decision
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CHAPTER 3 ‒ THE AMERICAN FLAG
GENERAL GUIDANCE
Title 36, United States Code (USC) Chapter 10, established the rules for proper use, display, and patriotic
customs to be shown the United States flag. The U.S. flag is displayed on an Air Force installation
according to these rules and customs. AFI 34-1201, Protocol and CAPR 900-2, Civil Air Patrol Name,
Seal, Logo, Command Emblem and Flag Etiquette, are your most useful guides in this area.
Civil Air Patrol members, in or out of uniform, must always show respect for the flag on or off military
installations. Failure to show proper respect while on a military installation may render CAP members
subject to exclusion from the facility. The U.S. flag may be worn on the Civil Air Patrol uniform only as
prescribed by appropriate CAP regulations.
Title 36, USC Section 17A authorizes the flag be flown from reveille to retreat (approx 0800 to 1600
local). However, the flag may be flown 24 hours a day to produce a patriotic effect if the flag is properly
illuminated during the hours of darkness. On a platform, position the U.S. flag to the speaker's right. Off
a platform, position the U.S. flag to the audience's right. Protocol officers must consult CAPR 900-2 to
assure proper placement and respect for the flag when used during the ceremonies explained in this
pamphlet.
Honors to the flag during the Pledge of Allegiance are similar to those rendered during the playing of the
National Anthem or "To the Colors," which will be covered later.
1. You do not recite the Pledge of Allegiance while in military formation or during military ceremonies.
2. At protocol functions, social or sporting events:
• When in uniform outdoors, you stand at attention, face the flag, remain silent, and salute.
• When in uniform indoors, you stand at attention, face the flag, but do not salute.
3. When in civilian clothes (indoors or outdoors) you should stand at attention, face the flag, remove
headdress with right hand, place your right hand holding the headdress, over your heart and recite the
Pledge. If no headdress is worn, place right hand over heart and recite the Pledge.
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1. When in uniform in formation (but not part of a ceremony), the unit commander commands "Present
Arms" when the National Anthem or "To the Colors" is played. The unit should be faced before being
given "Present Arms."
2. When in uniform, but not in formation:
• Outdoors at any ceremony where the U.S. flag is present, come to attention, face the flags in the
ceremony and salute. At sport events, if the flag is visible, face the flag and salute. If the flag is
not visible, face the band and salute in its direction. If the music is recorded, face the front and
salute. During all other outdoor occasions, the same general principle is followed: come to
attention and salute, facing the flag, if visible, otherwise facing the music.
• Indoors, when the National Anthem or "To the Colors" is played at the beginning or end of a
program or sports activity, face the flag, if it is present and take the position of attention. If no
flag is present or visible, take the position of attention facing the music. Do not salute.
3. When in civilian or athletic clothing outdoors, take the same action as when in uniform except that
the manner of saluting is different. Members remove any headdress with right hand and hold the
headdress at the left shoulder with the right hand over the heart. Men without hats and women, salute by
standing at attention and placing the right hand over the heart.
4. When in civilian or athletic clothing indoors, stand at attention, but do not salute.
5. While in a vehicle during a flag ceremony, the driver brings the moving vehicle to a stop by the first
note of the National Anthem or "To the Colors" The driver and passengers in the vehicle remain seated at
attention.
6. Civil Air Patrol photographers and camera operators render appropriate honors outlined in these
paragraphs, except when they are specifically assigned to photograph others rendering honors.
7. Flags of friendly Foreign Nations are shown the same respect
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CHAPTER 4 ‒ INVITATIONS TO CIVIL AIR PATROL AND OTHER DIGNITARIES TO
CONFERENCES AND SPECIAL ACTIVITIES PLANNING
Planning is the Key ingredient for a successful conference or special activity. Although this chapter is
addressed primarily to the Wing level, it may be used as a guide by the Squadron, Group and Region
levels as well.
INVITATIONS
1. All invitations are generally a personal letter from the inviting Commander as soon as the date of the
activity is firmly set. It is important to send the invitation as soon as possible to get the event added to the
National and Region calendars, since they fill up rapidly. It is also acceptable to send electronic or e-
invitations for informal social functions, as long as they include the required information and follow
protocol guidelines (See attachment 1 for sample.)
2. The letter of invitation will include:
• Name of activity.
• Date and time of activity.
• Location of activity.
• Appropriate dress for each phase of the activity.
3. Be sure to list any special information about the activity that would be helpful to the attendee. If a
brochure is available enclose it with the letter.
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7. If the dignitary is a General Officer, determine if he/she has hand carried a General Officer flag. If
so, secure it for use in the flag ceremonies. (NOTE: Upon acceptance of the invitation, inquire if the
General Officer will be bring his/her flag).
8. If the dignitary will be involved in award presentations, the Host Commander should indicate this in
subsequent correspondence. A copy of "Citation to Accompany Awards" should be furnished to the
dignitary to allow review of the award in advance.
9. If an overnight activity, the VIP's should have the room number, telephone number, etc. of the other
VIP's attending. This makes it easier for them to contact each other.
LIST OF DIGNITARIES
Which dignitaries to invite is left to the discretion of the Host Commander, however the following should
be considered:
National Commander
Chief Operating Officer
Commander - CAP USAF
National Vice Commander
National Chief of Staff
Region Commanders
Region Vice Commanders
Liaison Region Commander
Local Military Commanders
STATE AND LOCAL OFFICIALS (GOVERNOR, STATE LEGISLATORS, MAYOR, ETC.) Include
heads of organizations who are or have been of significant assistance to CAP.
SPECIAL NOTE: Normally, when active duty Air Force personnel from National Headquarters attend
CAP functions, the CAP-USAF liaison region will coordinate their travel and billeting arrangements, and
may assign a project officer to provide assistance.
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CHAPTER 5 ‒ RANK AND PRECEDENCE
Rank in Civil Air Patrol is the relative position or degree of precedence given a CAP Officer. Rank
marks station and confers eligibility to exercise command or authority within the limits set forth by
CAPR 20-1, Organization of Civil Air Patrol. CAPR 35-5, CAP Officer and Noncommissioned Officer
Appointments and Promotions, outlines the CAP promotion system.
Consult these regulations to resolve questions concerning rank, precedence, and command.
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CHAPTER 6 ‒ OFFICIAL CIVIL AIR PATROL SOCIAL FUNCTIONS
INTRODUCTION
The protocol officer must keep informed of accepted social procedures, particularly as they are observed
in the local community.
PROPER INTRODUCTIONS
Normally, a man is introduced to a woman, such as Irene, I'd like you to meet Colonel Jones. Sir, this is
my friend Irene Smith" You honor the woman by saying her name first. For introductions among persons
in uniform, both men and women, follow the rule of rank. The senior is named first "Colonel Brown, rd
like you to meet Major Valerie Gray, my Deputy Commander. Major Gray, this is Colonel Brown, our
Region Commander." Two other general rules are (a) young people are presented to older people (barring
rule of rank) and (b) a single person is usually presented to a group.
RECEPTIONS
The reception is a popular social function during Wing, Region and National social activities. Receptions
may be large or small, take many forms and serve many purposes. The Host Commander may wish to
have an "invitation only" reception to give his or her staff and others an opportunity to meet visiting
dignitaries, such as other Wing or Region Commanders and officials from National Headquarters. It is
common practice in CAP to hold a "No Host" cocktail party prior to a banquet held at conferences and
conventions and other semi formal and formal occasions. A reception or no host cocktail party is usually
held between the hours of 1800 and 1900 followed immediately by a buffet or dinner. If the reception is
large, a receiving line is usually in order. The receiving line usually includes from left to right, the
protocol officer or aide, the host, the hostess, the ranking honored guest and spouse, the second ranking
guest and spouse, etc. There should be no less than three, nor more than six, in the line, excluding the
protocol officer/aide. (A greater number tends to create a bottleneck.) The protocol officer/aide
announces the guests as they enter. Guests should identify themselves by their last name only, if name
tags have not been provided, guests should limit their conversations to "How do you do?" or "Good
afternoon" or "Good evening." They should move slowly, shaking hands and greeting each member of the
receiving line. It is important for guests to move immediately from the end of the receiving line to the
refreshment area, to make room for the others following them.
DRESS
Usually the host determines which uniform the officer shall wear. The spouse's attire is determined by
the formality of the occasion.
INVITATIONS
In Civil Air Patrol, semi engraved invitations are usually reserved for "invitations only" functions such as
a Commander's Social or VIP Cocktail Party.
A telephone or electronic e-invitation may be used for informal social functions. When this process is used,
a “reminder or save the date card” is also encouraged to be sent upon acceptance as a reminder for the event.
The reminder should specify the function such as general assembly, cocktail hour, banquet, etc.
All invitations, regardless of form, should be extended two weeks or longer in advance to permit the guest
ample time to arrange his/her personal calendar. Also, it affords the protocol officer time to react to
declination, if necessary. Conversely, invitations must not be extended so far in advance that the guest is
unable to determine whether the schedule will permit attendance. Normally, three weeks is the earliest an
invitation should be received, and the latest should be ten days.
SEATING
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For official dinners, the protocol officer determines the seating arrangements for the Head Table and other
VIP Tables. Prepare a seating chart and coordinate the chart with the host. (This task may also be
performed by the Plans and Programs Officer so that the protocol officer may attend to other matters.)
The chart, a diagram of the tables showing location of tables and each guest's seat, is usually displayed in
the cocktail lounge so guests may easily refer to it. The head table arrangements will indicate individual
guest seating. Other tables will be designated for National Staff, Region Staff, etc. All tables reserved for
the general membership will be determined by activity staff personnel.
Just prior to dinner, the head table, host and guests will line up outside the banquet hall in appropriate
sequence and march to their seats at the direction of the protocol officer/aide who will call the room to
attention. This method of bringing in the head table may also be used at the general assembly.
The first ranking guest will be seated to the right of the host, the second ranking guest to the left of the
host, the third ranking guest to the right of the first ranking guest, etc. It is best to limit the number of
people at the head table to no more than twelve. Alternate male female whenever possible.
Other distinguished guests and spouses and/or friends of head table guests should be seated at tables
immediately in front of and near the middle of the head table. These people should be escorted to their
seats by the activity staff personnel. The seating factors should include purpose, precedence of guests,
language, gender and role, spouses, themes of tables and type of seating.
NAME TAGS
Name tags are recommended at large official functions to facilitate introductions and conversation. Name
tags also serve as an invaluable aid to the protocol officer, since unissued tags identify guests who have
not arrived.
If inquiry reveals these guests will not attend, the protocol officer can take action early to rearrange
seating. To eliminate empty spaces at the tables, place cards should be placed at the Head and VIP tables
only.
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Dining In is to bring together members of a unit in an atmosphere of camaraderie,
good fellowship, and social rapport. The basic idea is to enjoy yourself and the company of other unit
personnel. This evening event is also an excellent means of saying farewell to those departing and
welcome to the newly arrived. Further, the Dining In provides an opportunity to recognize individuals
and unit achievements. The Dining In, therefore is very effective in building high morale and esprit de
corps.
DRESS
The dress must be stated in the invitation. It usually is the Mess Dress for officers and long dress or
evening clothes for female guests when attending a Dining Out. Male guests should wear appropriate
black tie dinner attire. At a Civil Air Patrol function, if cadets participate, they may wear a semi formal
uniform of Blue Service Dress without name tags, white shirt, and black bow tie. Senior members who
do not have a mess dress uniform will wear the Blazer Combination with white shirt and black bow tie, or
a tuxedo or business suit at the discretion of the host.
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PLANNING
Start early. Two or three months should be considered a safe time to start. Set a firm date, location and
general action plan. It is a good idea to appoint a planning committee. If the Dining In is to be held on a
military installation, make arrangements with the officers' club for room, date, and menu. Make the same
arrangements with motel/hotel, restaurant or convention facilities if held off base. The menu usually
consists of four or five courses, with Prime Rib of Beef and Yorkshire Pudding traditional, but not
necessary. Two weeks to a month before the time for the dinner, send out invitations to the guests who
are not members of the mess. The semi engraved card is often used for the invitation or they maybe hand
written or printed. Since this is a formal occasion, formal wording is used.
SEATING
At a Dining In, the guest of honor sits to the right of the "President" at the head table with the next
ranking guest to the president's left. Other guests are seated throughout the mess.
The members of the mess are seated according to seniority, with Mr./Mrs. Vice being seated alone at the
opposite end of the room. At a Dining Out, the guest of honor's spouse is seated to the right of the
president, and the second ranking woman to his left. The presidents' spouse is seated to the right of the
guest of honor.
PRINCIPAL OFFICIALS
PRESIDENT: This person is the central figure of the Dining In. The president is charged with
responsibility for setting the date and place of the event, introducing the principal speaker and honored
guests, proposing the first toast, ensuring the rules of protocol are observed and closing the ceremony.
MR. VICE/MADAM VICE: Usually this person is the most junior officer in the host organization (as
recorded on the latest officer roster), or he/she may be selected for his or her wit and speaking ability.
He/She assists the president by performing duties prescribed by the president. Members must be prepared
to follow instructions given by either the president or Mr. Vice/Madam Vice. This official starts the
cocktail party by opening the lounge, sounds the dinner chimes to summon the members and guests into
the dining room, keeps the party moving and is the last person to leave.
GUEST SPEAKER: The guest speaker's presentation is the highlight of the evening. By custom, the
speaker should be distinguished as a CAP official, military officer, or official of the government. The
speaker should be contacted well in advance and advised of the nature of the evening. Arrangements
should be made for him/her as protocol and custom dictate.
PRESENTATION OF FLAGS. Flags are normally presented at the beginning of the Dining In. When
the President raps the gavel three times to call the mess to order, the color guard enters and comes to
"Present Arms." If desired, a bugler, may sound "To the Colors," or the National Anthem may be played.
The color guard then places the flags in their stands and departs. If the ceremony is not observed, the
Colors are positioned before the members enter the dining room.
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WINE POURING CEREMONY. If the wine pouring ceremony is observed, all members are seated after
the invocation. Wine decanters are passed from hand to hand until all glasses are filled never letting the
decanter touch the table. When a decanter is empty, the officer holding the decanter hands it to a steward
(waiter) and receives a full one. After the initial toast, wine decanters may be placed on the table for
subsequent toasts. (This Ceremony is generally too time consuming for a Dining In of large groups;
therefore, wine may be poured prior to convening the mess and decanters placed on the tables).
TOASTING. The custom of toasting is universal. It is believed this custom came into wide acceptance
after the effects of poisons were discovered. When two persons, who might be antagonists, drank from
the same source at the same time and suffered no ill effects, a degree of mutual trust or rapport was
established. With this foundation laid, discussions could continue on a more cordial basis. Today,
toasting is a simple courtesy to the person honored. It is not necessary to drain the glass at the completion
of each toast or even to sip the wine; a mere touch of the glass to the lips satisfies the ceremonial
requirements. Water is an acceptable alternative to wine; as a toast. In our modern day Civil Air Patrol,
glasses are definitely not smashed against the fireplace, and drinking is done in moderation.
Toasts should be proposed in sequence and at intervals during the evening program. The president
proposes the first toast; Mr. Vice/Madam Vice proposes all other prepared toasts. Officers stand to toast,
but guests remain seated to drink the toast unless it is considered a standing ovation. If still in doubt, the
guests should take their cue from the president's spouse. The following is recommended:
1. After the invocation, "To the Colors," "To the President of the United States," "To the United States
Air Force," "To the Civil Air Patrol." See "Figure A" at the end of this chapter for appropriate responses.
2. After welcoming remarks: the president introduces the head table, and Mr/Madam Vice proposes a
toast "To our honored guests," response, "Here, Here."
3. After recognition or awards: as appropriate.
4. After speeches by the Guest of Honor: Mr/Madam Vice proposes a toast, "To our Guest of Honor."
Response, "Here, Here."
5. Normally, toasts should be planned and approved in advance by the president. In order to avoid
confusion, the toasts and responses should be printed in the Dining In booklet placed at the tables.
However, if a member does desire to propose a toast, he/she should stand saying "Mr. President, I
propose a Toast." Upon being recognized by the president, the member states, "I propose a toast to "The
president then raises a glass, a signal to members to stand and repeat the toast: "To " with a
response "Here, Here."
RULES OF PROTOCOL
The following are basic rules of protocol for a Dining In:
1. Punctuality is mandatory. Each member should arrive at the bar not later than 10 minutes after the
opening time to meet the guests before dinner. At the scheduled time or when the chimes sound for
dinner, the members enter the dining room and stand at attention behind their chair at their appointed
place at the banquet table. Drinks are not carried to the dining room.
2. The guests and the president are the last to enter the dining room. The president formally calls the
mess to order and continues according to the agenda. The president's welcoming remarks set the tone for
the formal part of the agenda. Following a recess, the president introduces the guest of honor.
3. If there is to be an informal portion of the Dining In, such as some form of entertainment, there
should be a distinct break between the formal and informal activities. This can be readily accomplished
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by having the mess adjourn to the bar following the president's closing remarks. The dining room can
then be cleared for the informal activity.
4. Each time the mess is adjourned or reassembled, the members stand until the persons at the head table
have left the room or have been seated.
5. Use of the Gavel. The president gains attention by rapping the gavel one time which signifies
complete silence. Two raps of the gavel signify a recess or the end of the Dining In.
6. Once the mess is open, members are not to leave the table or return without permission.
7. After the mess is adjourned, members remain at the Dining In until the president of the mess and the
guest of honor have left. If there is a delay in their leaving, the president may allow members to leave.
Some unobtrusive signal, such as having the unit flag cased, is an appropriate means of notifying the
members the Dining In is over. Mr/Madam Vice is the last member to leave the Dining In.
AWARDS
If awards and unit achievements are presented, an appropriate ceremony needs to be arranged. The
ceremony takes place during the formal portion. A convenient time, is immediately preceding the guest
of honor's speech. Under no circumstances should any ceremony follow directly after the speech.
CONCLUSION
Whether attending or organizing a Dining In, knowledge of the preceding information will be valuable to
you. While a Dining In is a formal dinner for members of a unit and selected guests, a
Dining Out on the other hand, is a formal dinner attended by spouses and guests of unit members.
Attachment 7 is a protocol function checklist which should also prove helpful
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CHAPTER 7 ‒ HONORS ACCORDED DISTINGUISHED VISITORS (DV)
The Host Commander may delegate the local arrangements for DVs to the Protocol Officer or to the
activity Project Officer, or may choose to personally handle the arrangements.
The intent of honors is to render a mark of courtesy to a DV. Honors will be accorded only to a DV and
not to a personal representative. If the DV is the head of a committee or delegation, only he/she will be
accorded honors.
PROTOCOL RESPONSIBILITIES
1. The Protocol Officer should maintain a file of biographies of the top echelons of CAP and CAP-
USAF personnel such as:
• National Commander
• Chief Operating Officer
• CAP-USAF Commander
• CAP-USAF Vice Commander
• National Vice Commander
• National Chief of Staff
This biographical information is available through Public Affairs at National Headquarters. When it is
known that other civilian, military, foreign or domestic DVs will play a major part in a CAP activity, a
biography of the DV should be requested from that person's office.
The purpose of having this biographical information is that when the DV is a principal speaker at a CAP
activity, the biographical information is presented to the audience to acquaint them with the DV's
accomplishments.
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• Ensure dignitaries (especially foreign visitors) are met and bade farewell by officers of equal rank
if possible. As a general rule, this requires that a General Officer be present at the arrival and
departure of a General Officer on an official visit.
4. Note: If arrival or departure of DV, or if function takes place on a military installation, coordinate
with host military protocol office. Notify the Public Affairs Officer so news media and photographic
coverage can be arranged as appropriate
5. Contact Hotel to reserve appropriate accommodations for the visitor.
• Be sure rooms are in excellent condition including heat, air conditioning, telephone, television,
lights, drains (i.e., everything). Inspect rooms yourself.
• Coordinate with your Commander and inform him/her of arrangements.
6. Coordinate with the Transportation Officer to schedule transportation.
• Ensure all drivers are briefed regarding their schedules.
• Provide drivers with specific directions in case they become separated from the other cars in the
group.
• Dry run the desired route in advance of the arrival party.
• Always have an alternate plan in mind in case the primary route becomes unavailable.
7. As appropriate, arrange for honor guard formations, guards, and security police escorts.
If possible, a Cadet or Senior honor guard might be used to greet the dignitary upon arrival at the activity.
If this is done, the dignitary's driver should advise the honor guard commander by radio as to the
estimated time of arrival.
PLACE OF HONOR
Traditionally, the right side has been considered the place of honor. Therefore, the person junior in rank
always walks, rides and sits to the left of the senior. It is the junior's responsibility to know his/her place
and to maneuver into it with as little attention as possible. As a general rule, seniors enter an aircraft,
automobile, or boat last and leave first. This procedure may be reversed in entering a car at a left hand
curb. In such cases, the senior may enter first, precluding the senior stumbling over the junior seated to
the left. Since seniors are always accorded the best seats, when three persons are in the back seat, the
junior is seated in the middle, with the most senior on the right. In full cars, the junior sits in front, and
seniors in back. In boats, a junior sits forward and a senior sits aft. When flying with a senior who is
pilot, you should be aboard in your designated position early.
ESCORT OFFICERS
If sufficient personnel are available, an escort officer may be assigned to each DV for the duration of
his/her visit. The escort officer accompanies the visitor throughout the visit, except when circumstances
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indicate otherwise. Officers of all grades, Lieutenant through Colonel, may be selected as escorts. An
escort officer is the official representative of the Commander and is expected to reflect the hospitality of
Civil Air Patrol. The escort officer extends every courtesy, official and social to make the visitor feel
welcome. When the visiting party includes spouses, the spouse of the escort officer is often requested to
act as escort for the DV's spouse. Escort officers and their spouses should contact the Protocol Officer for
guidance and assistance considered necessary.
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CHAPTER 8 ‒ PARTICIPATION IN FUNERAL CEREMONIES FOR DECEASED CIVIL AIR
PATROL MEMBERSCIVIL AIR PATROL POLICY
Because of our close association as Civil Air Patrol members, we are always deeply saddened when one
of our members passes away. Naturally, we deem it an honor and a privilege to be able to pay our last
respects to a lost associate. Of course, the wishes of the next of kin regarding the extent of CAP
participation is paramount. With the exceptions of paying last respects during visiting hours and
attending church and graveside services, Civil Air Patrol personnel will not participate in any services
unless specifically requested by the next of kin.
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
Before examining the different types of funeral ceremonies, consider what should be done upon
notification of the death of a unit member.
1. Upon notification, the unit commander or the unit chaplain should contact the immediate next of kin,
first to offer condolences and second to determine if the family desires CAP to take part in the funeral
services.
2. If the next of kin desires CAP participation, determine the type of services to be conducted and the
extent of CAP participation.
3. A Senior Member in the grade of major or above should be assigned to head the CAP contingent as
Officer In Charge (OIC). The OIC should then coordinate all CAP participation through the next of kin, a
funeral director, or both. Based on this information, the OIC will determine the person needed and put a
team together, briefing the team, as a group as to what is expected of them.
4. If the deceased is a cadet, then cadets may participate at the discretion of the Commander, but under
the guidance of a Senior Member OIC.
5. If the deceased is a veteran, determine from next of kin or the funeral director, if there will be any
local veterans’ organizations or military units participating.
MEMORIAL SERVICES
Services are held in a chapel without the remains present. This type of ceremony is usually performed
when the funeral service is held elsewhere.
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FIRING PARTY
Civil Air Patrol does not bear arms except as a part of the color guard. If the deceased is an honorably
discharged veteran and the next of kin desires a firing party as part of the grave site services, local
veterans' organizations or military bases may be contacted. This is usually done by the funeral director.
THE FLAG
If the deceased member is an honorably discharged veteran, the flag is provided by the Department of
Veterans Affairs, Washington, D.C. and may be procured from the nearest Post Office. Postmasters
require proof of an honorable discharge before issuing the flag for use at funeral ceremonies. Generally, a
funeral director will take care of this arrangement for the family of the deceased.
The flag is folded immediately after the sounding of "Taps." The pallbearers hold the flag at the pall over
the grave and fold the flag in the accustomed manner. The senior pallbearer hands the flag to the chaplain
or officer in charge, who in turn presents it to the next of kin or a representative of the family.
CONCLUSION
A funeral is a sad occasion and it is important that the wishes of the next of kin be honored. Civil Air
Patrol personnel may, of course, attend church and grave site funeral services of a fellow CAP member, in
or out of uniform. Under no circumstances, will a CAP member participate in the funeral ceremonies
unless specifically requested.
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ATTACHMENT 1 ‒ CHECKLISTS FOR AWARD CEREMONY
PRE-CEREMONY CHECKLIST
1. What is the ceremony and what award/promotion will be given? Who will assist in the presentation?
Are appropriate rank insignia available? Do clips for medals have to be obtained to make pin on easier?
Have all medal/awards/ certificates/plaques arrived with correct engraving or signatures? All presentation
elements should be available three days before the ceremony. Will items be kept by recipient or returned?
2. Who is to be honored and are they available (awardee, promotee; retiree, incoming Commander)?
3. Select participants to be in the ceremony? Will, they be available to participate?
4. Confirm time and date. Reserve room large enough for estimated guests and attendees.
5. Personnel who should attend key staff members, family, unit members, friends, relatives, others?
Notify by letter, follow-up by phone call. Will additional VIPs be invited? Are visitors expected from
wing, region or national levels?
6. Schedule a photographer. (Encourage family/friends to bring cameras.)
7. Refreshments may be served. Select project officer to be in charge. (In some instances, other
individuals or the honorees offer to provide refreshments optional, of course.) Who pays? Who handles
cleanup? Consider food, beverage, utensils, tablecloths, napkins, servers, etc.
8. Obtain a short biographical sketch of the honoree. Should be one or two pages and include name,
grade, duty title, job description, short personal history, career highlights, ultimate achievements, future
plans and names of family members who will attend.
9. Select type of format to be followed (conference room, office, auditorium, roast/toast, luncheon,
special presentation, etc.)? Where will ceremony take place? How should the room be arranged theater
seating, tables, chairs, flags, microphone, sound system, lighted lectern?
10. Will any special items also be presented. (i.e. pen and pencil sets, paperweights, models, etc?) Who
will assist in the presentation? Have they been briefed?
11. Select the narrator (master/mistress of ceremonies).
12. Commander should provide the narrator with copies of all write-ups, letters, citations, etc. Names
and units should be written out phonetically so that the narrator can pronounce them correctly.
13. Inform honoree, presenter, and narrator of the uniform combination to be worn.
14. Prepare sketch of ceremony. Determine special seating arrangements, if needed. Prepare agenda (see
sample). Get copies to honoree, presenter, narrator, and others as necessary. Brief principals on
ceremony details. If needed, prepare a narrative package (award, biographical sketch, agenda, etc.)
15. If appropriate, invite local media, send a news release with ceremony details, and provide point of
contact for further details. Have the public affairs officer draft a local story.
1. Make sure ceremony area is clean. Ensure chairs, flags, tables, name tags are arranged properly and
according to plan. Set up refreshments, coordinate with hosts or hostesses. Have honoree's and
presenter's places been marked with tape on the floor at appropriate ceremony area?
2. Walk/talk through ceremony with commander/honoree/ narrator and others (also with family
members, if participating). Have any ranks changed that are not on award recipient paperwork that must
be covered by MC during reading of documents.
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3. Walk through with photographer on photo opportunities to suggest types of photos and point out
VIPs. Brief media representatives on agenda and story ideas. (Public Affairs can assist.)
4. Be sure narrator has all material needed.
5. Be sure award assistant has all award/items.
6. Establish procedures for congratulations (receiving line) by audience after ceremony.
1. At appointed hour, narrator or designee calls room to attention, asks audience to stand, for arrival of
commander. Give a brief biographical sketch of honoree. (Presenter/Commander may prefer to do this
without notes.) Family and guests recognized.
2. Honoree called to front of audience reports to presenter.
3. When honoree is properly positioned, presenter asks narrator to read citation, letters, as required.
4. Assistant provides award/promotion/retirement elements to presenter who pins on or hands to
recipient. Photos follow (Have persons stand close together, avoid "Grip and Grin," face each other, have
them pose for the best possible picture with emphasis on recipient.)
5. Allow honoree a few personal comments, (Then call family forward for additional photos).
6. Continue with additional agenda items, as necessary.
7. Presenter concludes the ceremony and invites all to stay for refreshments (if pertinent) after they have
offered congratulations to honoree.
8. Return presentation area to normal after ceremony.
9. Follow up should be done by public affairs for the local media story/coverage. Prepare notice to the
Civil Air Patrol Public Affairs, or other media as necessary.
10. Learn from problems encountered. Keep a record. Prepare for the next ceremony.
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ATTACHMENT 2 ‒ AWARDS CEREMONY SAMPLE AGENDA
UNIT XXXX
UNIT XXXX
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ATTACHMENT 3 ‒ RETIREMENT CEREMONY SAMPLE AGENDA
UNIT XXXXX
Retirement Ceremony
Place
Time - Guests arrive. Narrator provides overview to audience and announcement as needed.
Time - Audience called to attention or asked to stand for arrival of presenter. Audience seated.
Remarks on ceremony purpose and brief biographical/career sketch of retiree. Retiree called
forward.
- If medal is presented, audience asked to stand as person to be retired is presented the medal.
Narrator reads orders/citation: Medal pinned or clipped on. Photo taken. Audience may be
seated.
- Retiree's comments.
- (If presentation to spouse, spouse called forward. Certificate, letter or plaque presented. Spouse
comments, if so desired. Photo.)
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ATTACHMENT 4A ‒ CHANGE OF COMMAND SAMPLE AGENDA (SAMPLE A)
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ATTACHMENT 4B ‒ CHANGE OF COMMAND SAMPLE AGENDA (SAMPLE B)
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ATTACHMENT 5 ‒ SAMPLE LETTER OF INVITATION
Dear Colonel
You are cordially invited to be our guest at our Annual Wing Conference to be held at the Great Westover
Hotel, 235 Adams Street, East Montague, New York, on the 16th and 17th of June 20XX.
There will be a general assembly starting at 0900 on the 16th that we would like you to attend. The
uniform for this and other activities will be the Service Dress Uniform.
Our Social Hour will be held at 1800 on Saturday evening preceding the banquet at 1900. Mess dress or
appropriate civilian attire is permitted.
Sincerely
JOSEPH H. TWEED
Colonel, CAP
Commander
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ATTACHMENT 6 ‒ SAMPLE DINING-IN AGENDA
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ATTACHMENT 7 ‒ PROTOCOL FUNCTION CHECKLIST
( ) Announcement board:
( ) Bar Time: Type of Bar:
( ) Food Time:
( ) Sufficient Bartenders and Bars
(depending on the occasion):
( ) Billing:
( ) Candelabras:
( ) Color Scheme and Linen Colors:
( ) Decorations:
( ) Door Openers:
( ) Easel:
( ) Escorts:
( ) Flags:
( ) Flowers:
( ) Guest Book:
( ) Invitations to Guests:
( ) Menu:
( ) Microphone & Podium:
( ) Band/Music Selection:
( ) Name Tags:
( ) Napkins:
( ) Number of Attendees:
Estimate: Final:
( ) Parking Arrangements:
( ) Gift for Guest speaker (if appropriate):
( ) Photographer:
( ) Place Cards:
( ) Receiving Line:
( ) Room:
( ) Seating Charts:
( ) Table Set up:
( ) Transportation:
Remarks:
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