Meeting Protocols

Being new to a meeting of the Marine Corps League may be confusing. This information may help you understand the meeting better.

Ritual Dignity – The Rituals of Marine Corps League must be conducted with the solemnity befitting the dignity of this organization.

Enter or Exit – No one shall be enter or exit a Detachment meeting during ceremonies for opening, initiation of new members, closing or other Ritual of the Marine Corps League.

Entering Meeting – Members entering the meeting room, once Colors have been posted, shall first salute the American Flag.

Excused from Meeting – Any member desiring to be excused from the meeting room while Colors are posted shall salute the American Flag and then exit.

Covers – The standard Marine Corps League cover is the minimum uniform item worn by members to be considered in uniform. When so covered offer a military salute to flag, if not, use a civilian salute with hand over heart.

Addressing an Officer – During a meeting use the title of the officer and then his/her name. During a meeting direct all comments to the presiding officer.

The Slow Hand Clap – This is a slow rhythmic clapping of hands, much like the slow beat of a drum. It is used to welcome new members and guests when they are brought forward to be introduced. This is a demonstration of respect for the individual being recognized.

Meeting Recess – During recess the Bible is closed. Salutes are given on closing and opening the Bible. While in recess, the official business of the Detachment is on hold, yet the Commandant still controls the meeting. During the period of recess, informal discussions and information relevant to the good of the Legion can be discussed. No official minutes are taken or official business of the detachment conducted while in recess.

Health & Safety – Some members and guests have health issues that require we serve their special needs. Marines take care of their own!

Gavel Usage –

• One rap is a message to the members to: be seated following their entrance to the event, the completion of a business item, follows the announcement of adjournment.
• Two raps of the gavel calls the meeting to order.
• Three raps of the gavel is the signal for all members to stand in unison on the third tap.
• A series of sharp raps is used to restore order during the event.

• Note –   To Recess a Meeting: Chaplain will close the Bible. Sergeant-at-Arms will lead in a salute to Colors and declare the meeting in recess.
• To Reopen a Meeting: Sergeant at Arms will lead a salute to the Colors. Chaplain will reopen the Bible. Sergeant at Arms will declare the meeting reopened for the conduct of Official Business.