Final answer:
Military courtesy involves specific customs that indicate respect and dedication, such as not leaving comrades on the battlefield and adhering to formal rituals like saluting superiors. These practices reflect cultural norms and vary among different societies, helping to build camaraderie and establish a shared military identity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Military courtesy encompasses a range of customs and practices that are intended to show respect within the ranks and to fellow soldiers. One deeply-rooted custom is the tradition of not leaving wounded or deceased comrades on the battlefield, which is a defining aspect of a soldier's duty and exemplifies extreme dedication. This practice is sometimes misunderstood by those outside the military but is a source of great respect among soldiers.
Another aspect of military courtesy is the formal rituals associated with service, such as the ceremonial discharge of a Roman knight, who would publicly recount his service and receive honors or penalties accordingly. Actions such as saluting superiors, marching in correct formations, and maintaining a clean space for inspection are fundamental parts of military discipline and courtesy. These actions foster a sense of camaraderie and a shared identity among soldiers, as they adhere to a structured way of life that emphasizes respect and order.
In addition to structured rituals, military courtesy can also include more spontaneous gestures of respect seen in other competitive arenas, like martial arts, where opponents display courtesy and concern for one another. Folkways such as these are important day-to-day practices that reflect the norms of a culture and often vary from one culture to another. In a military context, these expressions of respect and standards of behavior serve to reinforce the bonds between soldiers and uphold institutional values.