In a group of soldiers not in formation, who should initiate the salute when an officer is observed?

• A. The most senior.
• B. The last to see.
• C. The tallest.
• D. The first to see the officer.

Answer: (D)

In this situation, the salute is initiated by the first person who spots the officer. This rule ensures immediate, clear recognition of leadership in a small group not in formation. If you’re the first to see the officer, raise your hand to your forehead and salute; the officer will return the salute, and the rest of the group can follow as appropriate. Traits like being the most senior, the last to see, or being the tallest don’t determine who salutes—the key is who sees the officer first.