Retreat ceremony, dignified homage to national flag Published Feb. 12, 2015 By Robert D. Martinez 17th Training Wing Public Affairs GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- On Goodfellow AFB retreat is played at 5 p.m. followed by the playing of the national anthem. Wing retreat ceremonies are held here every quarter and are conducted by 17th Training Wing groups at the base flagstaff. Retreat ceremonies are a military tradition and part of a customs and courtesies to pay respect to the United States flag, promote esprit de corps and bestow on the Airmen in the ceremony the honor of representing the wing. The Army Officer's Guide states that retreat was first used by the French Army and dates back to the Crusades. Since the Revolutionary War, the American Army used the bugle call at sunset to notify guards to start challenging individuals until sunrise, and informing the troops to return to their quarters. Even one of America's theme parks pays its respects to the Unites States flag with a retreat. According to Disneyworld.com, since 1971, the flag on Main Street U.S.A. is retired ceremonially every evening. What to do when retreat is played: When outdoors in any uniform, to include physical training uniforms, members should stop, face the flag or the direction of music, and stand at parade rest while retreat is playing. Come to attention and render a salute at the first note of the national anthem; hold the salute until the last music note. If outdoors and not in uniform, stand at attention until the last music note. Members of the Armed Forces and veterans not in uniform may render the military salute. What to do in a vehicle during retreat: When retreat plays, stop the vehicle. All occupants should sit quietly until the last music note. For more information on drill and ceremonies, refer to Air Force Manual 36-2203.
