At attention

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Soldiers from the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade "Warriors," 1st Cavalry Division, stand at attention.
Soldiers from the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade "Warriors," 1st Cavalry Division, stand at attention.
Polish soldiers standing at attention
Polish soldiers standing at attention

The position of At attention, or Standing at attention, often preceded by an officers call of 'Ten-Hut', 'Atten - Shun!', 'Ho' or similar phrase, is a military posture which involves the following general postures:[1]

  • Arms to the side, along the seams of the trousers
  • Head and eyes straight forward
  • Keeping the heels together, toes apart
  • Not talking, smiling, or moving

This position is common in most military organizations throughout the world. It may also be used by paramilitary organizations, and others such as Scouts, Cadet Programs, or Police Units.

However, it is also used in marching bands and drum and bugle corps.

[edit] Variations

  • In the U.S. Military, the feet are kept at a 45 degree angle.
  • In the Swiss Army, the feet are kept at a 60 degree angle.
  • In the Polish Army, the distance between the halluxes of the feet should equal the soldier's foot's length.

[edit] References

  1. ^ Standing Attention (from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website)
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