Showing respect and knowing your chain of command are important lessons in the Coast Guard. Respect is what allows us to appreciate the best in other people. Respect is trusting that all people have done their jobs and fulfilled their duty.
To show respect recruits will address all personnel using “Sir”, or “Ma’am” (as appropriate) at the beginning and the end of the sentence or phrase. The position of attention will be assumed when speaking to, or being addressed by, an officer or a Company Commander.
“Carry-on” may be granted by the person in authority only if the recruit demonstrates proper military bearing.