The hand salute is a one-count movement. The command is Present, ARMS. On the command of execution ARMS the right hand is smartly raised until the tip of the forefinger touches the lower part of the headdress or forehead above. The hand and wrist are straight, the elbow inclined slightly forward, and the upper arm horizontal. Order arms from the hand salute is performed on commandOrder, ARMS. On the command of execution ARMS return the hand sharply to the side, resuming the position of attention.
When reporting or rendering courtesy to an individual, turn the head and eyes toward the person addressed and simultaneously salute. In this situation, the actions are executed without command. The salute is initiated by the subordinate at the appropriate time and terminated upon acknowledgment.
The hand salute may be executed while marching. It is executed six paces away from the person saluted. Hold salute until the person saluted has passed or the salute is returned. When double timing, a soldier must come to quick time before saluting. When a formation is marching at double time, only the individual in charge assumes quick time and salutes.