KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- With the summer PCS season almost behind us, now is a good time to review the protocol for reveille and retreat here at Kirtland Air Force Base.
Each morning at 7 a.m., reveille sounds with a bugle call followed by the playing of “To the Colors.” This signifies the start of the duty day. At 5 p.m., retreat is sounded, followed by the National Anthem, signaling the end of the official duty day.
“Even though flags here at Kirtland fly 24/7, this tradition is how we honor our flag which stands for freedom, liberty and justice we fight to defend,” said Col. Eric Froehlich, 377th Air Base Wing commander.
When driving on base, both civilian and military personnel should come to a complete stop and wait for the music to end. All passengers in the vehicle should sit quietly.
Military members outside in uniform should stand at parade rest during the bugle call and face the flag or the music. When the music starts, they should come to attention and render a salute. Those in civilian clothes should stop and place their right hands over their hearts. Military members and veterans in civilian clothes have the option to salute during To the Colors or the National anthem.
“The tradition of rendering the appropriate customs and courtesies is expected of both military and civilians on all military installations. It is worth a few minutes of our time daily to pause and reflect on the important role we play in our national security,” Froehlich said.