The purpose of a military ball is to honor those who gave up their lives while serving and protecting their country. It’s also an opportunity for military personnel to relax and have a good evening with their colleagues and loved ones.
What to expect at a military ball?
Traditions, ceremonies and speeches.
- Most military balls have a program. This will help you know what to expect.
- Keep cell phones off and avoid side chatter during this time. ...
- Check before snapping pictures to make sure it’s okay at your particular ball.
- Because each branch is different, watch what others are doing and model after them. ...
What you should wear to a military ball?
Military Ball Dress Code Male guests typically wear dark suits with a bow tie or a tuxedo. Women wear knee- to floor-length gowns, but also have the option of cocktail dresses, as long as detailing is minimal. Patterns and bright colors should be avoided.
What do you do at a military ball?
DO these things at a military ball: Eat something beforehand. The ceremony can be long, and dinner isn’t served until the ceremony and keynote speaker are finished. If you start drinking earlier in the day, you need food to balance that out. Be prepared to spend some time alone. This event is for your service member.
Does the Army have a military ball?
Enlisted personnel and officers are invited to attend the military ball for their branch of the military. These balls are often held on the local base and are for that group of people. Spouses and significant others may attend the ball with their enlisted partner. The military ball is a formal event.
Are military balls a thing?
At least once a year each military branch hosts a formal military ball in which spouses can attend. It's an exciting time for military communities to get together, but often times, spouses get anxious about what to expect as they honorably represent their service member.
What do you need for a military ball?
A military ball is a formal event. As a date, your attire should be equally formal. This generally means a full-length dress, not a shorter “cocktail length” dress. But it doesn't need to be a puffy ball gown and have a train, either. I know, the rules are silly.
Can civilians go to military balls?
A lot of different people are invited to or attend military balls. Let's start with the most obvious attendees on the guest list. The unit or organization hosting the ball will invite all of its service members. Unless specified, everyone in the unit is invited and allowed to bring a guest.
How formal is a military ball?
A military ball is a formal event, so you will need to look sophisticated and elegant. The air force ball dress code, marine corps ball dress code, navy ball dress code, and army military ball dress code all share the same sense of formality! What is this? If you are wearing a dress/gown, it should be floor-length.
What happens at a high school military ball?
FPHS JROTC Military Ball The annual Military Ball is a formal affair where cadets and their guests enjoy an evening of dinner, dancing, guest speakers, and seniors are recognized with a formal cake-cutting. Gentlemen are required to be in uniform with white shirt and black bow tie. The ladies are in formal dress.
Why don t Marines walk on grass?
Since military sidewalks are usually straight lines that intersect each other at 90-degree angles, a young private may save a half of a second by cutting through the grass. If enough troops cut that same corner, then the grass will die and become a path, thus destroying the need for the sidewalk to begin with.
What happens at military balls?
Service members wear formal military attire while guests dress in formal wear. During the ball, guests and service members observe traditions such as a receiving line, social time, observance of the flag, and honoring fallen heroes. For sure, those in attendance have a great time while building community relationships.
How long do military balls last?
Smith and I'm Petty Officer Smith.” The receiving line is typically short and lasts for about 30 minutes. Here are a couple of pro-tips that will keep you from offending others in the receiving line: First, keep your hands free of drinks, food or cigarettes.
What do female service members wear to a military ball?
Female service members will wear a 'mess dress' or other appropriate version of their service dress uniform. Some however, may elect to wear full-length evening gown or cocktail dress. They will receive guidance from their command on which is allowed.
What branches have a military ball?
The US Air Force and Coast Guard also hold annual balls, but the events do not always land on the same day each year. Each branch of the US armed forces holds a separate annual military ball. However, additional balls are held throughout the year at military bases and installations throughout the globe.
Can I wear a short dress to a ball?
The little ABC for all cases To classic balls, it will be sufficient for ladies to wear a simple yet elegant dress that ends just below the knee. It should be ensured that a jacket or cloth, which is worn over the dress, should never extend further than to the knees.
When was the first military ball?
1895This formal event is not unique to CWU, in fact, the origins of Military Ball can be traced back to 1895. During a Military Ball attendees honor Prisoners of War and Soldiers Missing in Action, give toasts to military leaders, and uphold traditional military customs.
What do you wear to a high school military ball?
Male guests should wear a coat and tie. Female guests should wear a nice dress or gown. No sneakers or jeans will be allowed. This is not acceptable dress for this event. You will be allowed to change out of uniforms and formal wear for the dance.
How long does a military ball last?
Smith and I'm Petty Officer Smith.” The receiving line is typically short and lasts for about 30 minutes. Here are a couple of pro-tips that will keep you from offending others in the receiving line: First, keep your hands free of drinks, food or cigarettes.
What do female service members wear to a military ball?
Female service members will wear a 'mess dress' or other appropriate version of their service dress uniform. Some however, may elect to wear full-length evening gown or cocktail dress. They will receive guidance from their command on which is allowed.
What do you wear to a ball?
Most balls follow a black-tie dress code, which means guests should wear long, elegant dresses, suits, or tuxedos. However, some balls may have other dress codes, like military dress or masquerade costumes. When the ball's happening also makes a difference in what you should wear.
When Is the Military Ball?
Military balls are held at different times throughout the year. Some branches of the US armed forces hold their balls to coincide with the branch’s birthday:
Who Gets Invited to Military Balls?
Active-duty service members receive an invitation to the military ball held by their unit. Military balls are not typically mandatory, but attendance is strongly encouraged.
Can Soldiers Drink During a Military Ball?
Yes, soldiers can drink during a military ball. Most military balls have a cocktail hour before the proceedings and an open cash bar for after dinner. It is not uncommon for attendees to become intoxicated during the evening.
What is the induction of the Order of Saint Barbara?
Induction. Inductions into the Orders of Saint Barbara and the Artillery Order of Molly Pitcher are traditional parts of most celebrations. They require proper planning and coordination to ensure flawless performance. A narrator should first read the legends to set the stage.
Why do celebrants eat at the head table?
Because the head table will always be served first, celebrants may eat as soon as they are served.
What is the proper procedure for guests to follow during all toasts?
The proper procedure for guests to follow during all toasts is to take the toasting glass and hold it at waist level. When the toast is proposed, repeat the subject of the toast, raise the glass to eye level and then take a drink.
What is a toast?
Toasts are a traditional element of the dining-in and dining-out. They also may be incorporated into other celebrations. More often than not, toasts using wine occur after dinner, but toasts early in the program are appropriate. Planners must decide in advance the subject of each toast and the person who will present it. The toasts should be practiced before the celebration so each presenter knows when and how to give his particular toast. The presenter can be anybody in the unit, but a junior officer often is asked to give at least one toast. Toasts may be made to the President of the United States, the United States Army, the division, the regiment and the unit.
What uniforms do you wear with a bow tie?
This means military personnel should wear the bow tie with one of the following uniforms: Army Service Uniform, Army Blue Dress Mess Uniform.
What does the Field Artillery Commandant say in the toast?
The Field Artillery Commandant encourages the following Toasts: “Ladies and gentlemen, please rise”. “Toasts are now in order”. All rise and remain standing until the conclusion of the toasts. Hold port glasses in the right hand. “I propose a toast to the United States of America”. All drink the toast and say “The United States of America”.
Why do planners shy away from receiving lines?
Many people tend to shy away from receiving lines. Such discourteous actions occur because many people don't know how to conduct themselves in these situations. Planners must do whatever is necessary to educate those who will attend.
What is the social hour at a ball?
There is always a social hour or cocktail hour before the formal portion of the ball begins. This is fun because not only will you see the many different types of formal uniforms the service members wear, but you'll also see what all the spouses and significant others have chosen to wear.
What is cocktail hour?
As cocktail hour winds down, the formal portion of the evening will begin. Everyone walks through a receiving line and shakes hands with the Commander and the honored guests. (This year, the president of the university came to our ball!) It is tradition that the guest of the service member is introduced first and shakes hands with the receiving line ahead of the service member. After shaking hands, guests are to find their tables and wait.
Does the Army have a rule?
The Army has a rule or regulation for everything — not a big surprise there! Many of these rules and traditions are hundreds of years old (there is even a book called Service Etiquette that spouses can buy to learn these traditions). There are many formal functions service members and their spouses attend, but by far the most fun function is the military ball.
How to honor someone in a line?
Shake hands with the person being honored, then move it along. Don’t lollygag or make too much small talk. This is a line, after all, and there are others waiting to move through and meet the honoree.
What to do if you don't plan on drinking at a ball?
Even if you don’t plan on drinking, this is a big night and you’ll be up late. Let your hair down, stay right on site, and don’t drink and drive.
What to wear to a rodeo?
For guys, wear a shirt with a tie at the very least. If you don’t have a suit, this would be a good time in life to buy one. You’re an adult! And, if you’re someone’s date to a military ball, it probably means this won’t be your only rodeo. Buy a suit for the occasion—but not a bright orange one.
What to wear to a military ball?
They’ll be in their formal uniform. If you’re someone’s date, choosing your attire can be a little trickier. For guys, wear a shirt with a tie at the very least .
Is it okay to get drunk and hit other people's dates?
One thing that is NO acceptable—getting drunk and hitting on other people’s dates! Leave with who you came with, end of story.
What to know before attending a military ball?
It’s an exciting time for military communities to get together, but often times, spouses get anxious about what to expect as they honorably represent their service member.
What to do if you didn't find what you were looking for?
Didn't find what you were looking for? Talk to a Loan Specialist about your goals
What dances do you do at a presentation?
When the presentation ends, the dance floor and bar will open up. It may begin with formal dances such as waltzes or foxtrots, but depending on the band or DJ that runs the show, more contemporary music can be played. You can let loose on the dance floor, but be sure to leave the club moves at home.
What to do when dinnertime is sounded by a horn?
When dinnertime is sounded by a horn, it’s time for you to take your assigned seat. It’s a good idea to open the lines of communication and introduce yourself to your table. You may find a program at your table with the evening’s events as well as any responses you should give during toasts and speeches.
What time is cocktail hour?
Cocktail Hour. The night kicks off around 5 or 6 with a cocktail hour where service members and guests can mingle. There may also be a photographer for formal pictures. Just be sure to pace any drinking you may do, because when the cocktail hour ends it’s typically time for the receiving line.
What is the most important thing to say to your significant other?
The most important thing is that you feel comfortable, confident, and classy. You are a compliment to you your significant other and the military branch they represent in the same way they are a compliment to you. Keep that in mind; your support of each other is a thing to celebrate within itself.
What do military people wear at a ball?
In a military ball, service members wear dress blue or class A uniforms while guests complement them with formal attire. Male guests typically wear dark suits with a bow tie or a tuxedo . Women wear knee- to floor-length gowns, but also have the option of cocktail dresses, as long as detailing is minimal.
Why is the Army ball held on June 14?
Needless to say, it is a special event on a special day. Unlike a typical birthday party, however, the ball is to honor fallen soldiers who have bravely served the country until his or her last breath. It is also a chance for new recruits to build their morale and meet personnel from other units and/or departments.
What is a good checklist for a wedding?
A good checklist includes: dress, blazer/cover, footwear, jewelry, gloves, purse/carry-ons, hair, and makeup. Once you actually start preparing, you will realize that there is a lot to cover! Thus, it is best to start early. Plus, you have time to go shopping if certain items are not readily available at home.
When was the Navy ball held?
During the Revolutionary War, on October 13, 1775 , the Navy was established. Hence, the Navy ball is hosted by the US Navy League every year on this day. Be ready to show your appreciation for the Navy culture and heritage, as well as honor the Navy’s inception.
Why are military balls held on Friday nights?
Frequently they are held on Friday nights to save the unit some money, but that means rushing from work and school to the ball. But sometimes the ball gives you the opportunity for a weekend away or just a quick overnight date. Military balls are often held in a venue off the installation.
Where are military balls held?
Military balls are often held in a venue off the installation. Sometimes the units provide transportation to and from the event so they can avoid the risk of drunk driving. Often those shuttle services are free, sometimes they are available for a fee. You can ask your unit what is available.
Can you wear white to a military ball?
Most military balls are considered formal, white tie events. That means your service member will be wearing his or her dressiest uniform. Female military spouses and dates should wear formal dresses either floor-length or no shorter than just below the knee. Anything knee-length or above is considered a cocktail dress or semi-formal and is, traditionally, not considered appropriate for a formal ball event. Male military spouses and dates should wear a tuxedo, or a very nice black suit with a tie.
Do we have to go through the military ball receiving line?
Before the formal portion of the ball starts, you may visit the receiving line . This will probably be the most confusing protocol part of the entire evening, but as the military is full of tradition, it can also be fun.
What should a military spouse wear to a ball?
Male military spouses and dates should wear a tuxedo, or a very nice black suit with a tie.
What other traditions and formal ceremonies are performed depending on your service and the reason for the ball?
What other traditions and formal ceremonies are performed depending on your service and the reason for the ball. The entrance and exit of the colors, responsive readings, a grog bowl ceremony, cake cutting, toasts, speeches or any other myriad military ball traditions might be performed.
Do military spouses have to have dates at military balls?
First of all, it's important to note: There are no actual rules for military spouses and dates at military balls. The protocol rules are for the service member. Everything for the spouse is a matter of best practice, common sense or, in most cases, simply tradition. Why so many traditions?
