HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – Base officials remind personnel about the proper customs and courtesies when hearing Reveille, Retreat, and Taps played on base.
These daily bugle calls hold significant meaning and are a longstanding military tradition.
“By embracing these traditions, we strengthen our force, honor the military heroes who served, and pay respect to our great nation,” said Col. Jorge Jimenez, installation commander.
Hanscom AFB has designated 6:30 a.m. as the official “wake up” for the day, and 5 p.m. as the end of the duty day. Quiet hours on base start at 9 p.m.
Reveille plays at 6:30 a.m. Hanscom AFB does not have an accompanying flag-raising ceremony, as the flag is flown 24/7. Therefore, personnel do not need to stop or salute during Reveille.
Retreat sounds at 5 p.m. followed by the national anthem. During Retreat, all personnel outside should stop, face the U.S. flag or the direction of the music, and render appropriate honors.
Military members in uniform must salute, while civilians and military members in civilian attire should remove headgear and place their right hand over their heart.
“If you’re driving during Retreat, the right thing to do is safely stop the vehicle, turn on your hazard lights, and remain seated quietly until the national anthem concludes,” said Chief Master Sgt. Jason Vollmer, installation command chief.
Other than emergencies, all outdoor activities should pause during the national anthem. Military members in uniform should stand at parade rest while Retreat plays, then render appropriate honors during the anthem.
Taps plays at 9 p.m. to signal “lights out” and the beginning of quiet hours at Hanscom AFB. Stopping and saluting is not required but those wishing to honor fallen service members may choose to do so. During official ceremonies, Taps is played to honor the fallen military heroes and personnel should stand at attention.
For more information on customs and courtesies, personnel can reference Department of the Air Force Instruction, or DAFI, 90-1201.