Shortly after our arrival as recruits on Parris Island, we learned how to execute the hand salute. As with all we were there taught, it was done by the numbers.

1. Raise your right hand smartly in the most direct manner until the tip of your forefinger touches the lower part of the headdress above and slightly to the right of your right eye.

2. Your thumb and fingers should be straight and touch each other.

3. You should be able to see your entire palm when looking straight ahead.

4....