Why do we salute with palm down?

As a cultural and military historian, I have spent considerable time studying the evolution of military customs and traditions, including the gesture of saluting. The act of saluting is a complex and multifaceted ritual that has evolved over centuries and varies across different cultures and military organizations. One of the most recognized forms of military salute involves extending the hand with the palm facing downwards. This particular form of salute has a rich history and is steeped in tradition, etiquette, and practicality. The British Army, as one of the oldest and most influential military organizations in the world, has played a significant role in shaping many of the military customs we know today. The tradition of the palm-down salute is believed to have originated from the British Army and later adopted by the Royal Navy, with a unique twist to suit their specific circumstances and requirements. The British Army developed a salute with the palm facing outwards, which is also used by the Royal Air Force. This outward-facing palm is a sign of openness and a demonstration that the soldier is not carrying a weapon, thus showing peaceful intent. It is a gesture that conveys respect and acknowledgment of authority. However, the Royal Navy adopted a version with the palm facing downwards. There are several theories as to why this variation came into existence. One practical reason is that many men working on ships had dirty palms due to the nature of their work. Displaying dirty palms could be seen as disrespectful, especially when saluting a superior officer or during formal occasions. The downward-facing palm would hide the dirt and maintain a level of decorum and respect. Another theory suggests that the downward palm salute was a practical adaptation to the maritime environment. On a ship, a soldier's hand could easily be contaminated by various substances, including tar and other materials used in ship maintenance. By keeping the palm down, the sailor could avoid transferring this grime to a fellow officer during the salute, thus maintaining a certain level of cleanliness and professionalism. It is also worth noting that the naval salute may have been influenced by the need for clear, non-verbal communication in a noisy environment. On a ship, especially during battle or in rough seas, verbal commands could be drowned out by the noise of the ocean, the wind, and the ship's own operations. A clear, visual signal like the downward palm salute would be easily recognizable and understood by all crew members, regardless of the background noise. The act of saluting is more than just a gesture of respect; it is a symbol of unity, discipline, and commitment to the chain of command. Whether the palm is facing outwards or downwards, the essence of the salute remains the same: a display of allegiance and respect to one's superiors and to the institution they represent. In conclusion, the palm-down salute, as used by the Royal Navy, is a custom that has been shaped by practical considerations, a desire to maintain respect and decorum, and the unique challenges of operating in a maritime environment. It is a testament to the adaptability and evolution of military traditions in response to the specific needs and circumstances of the forces they serve.

The British Army developed a salute with the palm facing outwards, also used by the Royal Air Force. The Royal Navy, however, adopted a version with the palm facing downwards, thought to be because many men working on ships had dirty palms and to display them was disrespectful.Jan 5, 2015