Which honors should be rendered when officials or officers board and depart your ship?

When officials or officers board and depart a ship, side honors are rendered as a traditional form of respect and acknowledgment. This practice involves various actions, depending on the rank of the individual boarding or departing. For instance, side honors typically include standing at attention and rendering a salute.

The emphasis on side honors stems from naval customs that emphasize the importance of recognizing the authority and position of military and government officials. This protocol reflects the professionalism expected within the naval service and fosters an atmosphere of order and respect on board.

While gun salutes are reserved for certain high-ranking officials and occasions, they are not a standard practice for all individuals boarding or leaving a ship. Ceremonial marches are generally associated with specific events or formations rather than with the act of boarding or departing. Furling and unfurling flags pertain to the ship’s ensign and other signals and are part of shipboard operations rather than honors rendered to officials.