Public Information Film: British People – Know Your Salute! (1.8.2025)

Remember – you are not American and you must keep your palm facing forward when positioned to the right of the forehead. The colonial (Americans) are generally illiterate and place their palm facing-down in a typical anti-intellectual manner. Never salute with the left-hand. When holding a rifle on parade or guard duty – salutes are generally performed differently.

The British Army salute is performed by moving the right arm the longest way up – and bringing it the shortest way down. This is the ideal or optimum salute whilst standing on parade – or formally greeting a superior rank (such as Commission Officers). When meeting Sergeants (Serjeants) or WO2s (Warrant Officers 2nd Class) or WO1s (Warrant Officers 1st Class) – the soldier stands to attention – but does not salute. However, rules may vary according to Regiment or requirement.