Final answer:
Military customs and courtesies play a critical role in reinforcing discipline, pride, and unity among soldiers. They embody values such as loyalty, courage, and honor, and contribute to societal order and coherence. These traditions bridge military conduct with broader cultural identity and historical warrior virtues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Military customs and courtesies are significant in maintaining discipline and expressing the pride and professionalism within the armed forces. These traditions, entrenched in military culture, serve to unify soldiers during and after their basic training, where they develop a strong bond with their comrades and learn the essential protocol such as saluting superiors, maintaining their living quarters, and marching in correct formations.
Besides everyday discipline, such practices also extend to combat situations, as exemplified by the respect that soldiers show for their colleagues on the battlefield, as well as the high level of courtesy displayed even in martial sports.
The respect inherent in military customs reinforces important values such as loyalty, courage, and honor - which have historically been important among the elite classes, including their military entourages.