What is the proper position when speaking to an officer?

• A. At ease
• B. Parade Rest
• C. Present Arms
• D. Attention

Answer: (D)

Standing at attention communicates formal respect and full readiness when addressing a superior. It keeps you upright, facing forward, with hands at your sides, which shows you’re listening intently and prepared to respond. Other stances relax posture or involve ceremonial actions—at ease relaxes the torso and hands, parade rest leaves hands behind the back and feet apart, and presenting arms is a salute performed with a weapon for ceremonial greetings. For a direct interaction with an officer, attention is the appropriate standard until the officer directs a different posture.