CEREMONY GUIDE
Be aware that the following is not an all inclusive list; it is only a guide to assist you in planning a ceremony.
CEREMONY DIRECTIVE
AFI 34-1201, PROTOCOL
PRESIDENT CERTIFICATE
Presidential Certificates were finally available for order at the end of September 2017; unfortunately, ARPC is only able to order fifty presidential certificates per month. Each service has been limited in the number of certificates they can order, so these certificates must be ordered as soon as a retirement is announced.
Retiree’s always have the option to request a certificate from a former president. If you have retirees that wish to have a former president sign their certificate they will need to contact that president’s Presidential Library with the exception of President Obama — you must contact his staff at https://barackobama.com
2-3 MONTHS PRIOR
Confirm Date/Time for Ceremony
Discuss options with individual
Reserve Location
• Consider Back-up Location
Aquire sample script
Obtain Bio/Career Info from individual
Select Presiding Official
Coordinate with Presiding Official Schedule
Identify any $$ requirements
• Minor funds available thru 377 SPECIAL MORALE AND WELFARE FUNDS (SMWF)
Retirement Ceremony:
• Ensure all awards & decs are up-to-date
• Ensure orders/certificates initiated
1 MONTH PRIOR
Set Prescribed Uniform For Participants
• Notify all who will be in Blues
Arrange Photographer
Schedule Honor Guard
Prepare Orders / Retirement Certificate
Obtain Guest List from Individual
Prepare/Send Formal Invitations to Special Guests
Scrub List w/ Protocol & Outgoing CC
Print Small Maps for Inclusion with Invitations
Determine Parking Requirements For DVs
Obtain “Road Signs” Directing Traffic
Prepare/Reproduce Program for Ceremony
Ensure availability of Microphone/podium/audio
Schedule Chaplain for Invocation
Arrange for any Publicity
Prepare script (Review options)
Select/Provide Emcee for Ceremony
Select Proffer for Ceremony
Select Escorts/Ushers for Special Guests
1-2 WEEKS PRIOR
Verify Flags for Ceremony (ensure heights are relatively similar)
Make Reception Arrangements
Arrange For Music
Arrange For National Anthem
Arrange For Military Unit Formation
• Check Layout Options with AFI
Ensure Orderly Room Publishes Orders
Schedule Practice for Key Players
RESERVE/Procure Folding Chairs / Tables
Coordinate with PA any News Releases to Base Paper
Confirm Items for Reception (Food / Drinks / Flowers / Gifts)
DAY PRIOR
Arrange Seating for VIPs, Family, etc.
Brief Presiding Officer on Script/Flow of Events Prior to Ceremony
Verify Lay-out of location
Verify Items for Reception
DAY OF CEREMONY
Verify Sound System
Pre-Brief Presiding Official & Individual
Ensure set-up of stage
Other: