FLAGS, PENNANTS, HONORS, CEREMONIES, AND CUSTOMS

1151. Direct Communication With the Com- manding Officer The right of any person in the naval service to communicate with the commanding officer in a proper manner, and at a proper time and place, shall not be denied or restricted. 1154. Communications to the Congress Personnel may not, in their official capacity, apply to Congress for congressional action of any kind or provide information requested by Congress. The only exception to this regulation is such communication as authorized by the Secretary of the Navy or as provided by law. 1155. Dealings With Members of Congress All persons may write to their congressmen on any subject as long as they do not violate security regulations or the law. 1156. Forwarding Individual Requests Requests from persons in the naval service shall be acted upon promptly. When addressed to higher authority, requests shall be forwarded without delay. The reason should be stated when a request is not approved or recommended. 1157. Leave and Liberty Leave and liberty will be granted to the maximum extent practicable. 1158. Quality and Quantity of Rations Meals served in the general mess will be sampled regularly by an officer detailed by the commanding officer. If the officer finds the quality or quantity of the food unsatisfactory or any member of the mess objects to the quality or quantity of the food, the officer will notify the commanding officer. 1159. Possession of Weapons Personnel may not have any weapons or explosives in their possession without proper authority. 1160. Possession of Government Property Personnel will not possess, without permission, any property of the United States except what is needed in the performance of their duty. 1162. Alcoholic Beverages The personal possession of any alcoholic beverages aboard any ship is prohibited. The transportation aboard ship of alcoholic beverages for personal use ashore is authorized subject to the discretion of, and under regulations established by, the commanding officer. FLAGS, PENNANTS, HONORS, CEREMONIES, AND CUSTOMS Chapter 12 covers the 1200 article series. This chapter is divided into 10 sections and a listing of tables pertinent to the 1200 article series. Section 1 contains general regulations governing honors. Section 2 outlines honors to national anthems and national ensigns. Section 3 explains hand salutes and other marks of respect. Section 4 pertains to gun salutes. Section 5 covers passing honors. Section 6 contains regulations that govern official visits and calls. Section 7 defines formal occasions other than official visits. Section 8 explains the display of flags and pennants. Section 9 defines special ceremonies, anniversaries, and solemnities. Section 10 addresses deaths and funerals. STANDARD ORGANIZATION AND REGULATIONS OF THE U.S. NAVY The Standard Organization and Regulations of the U.S. Navy (SORN), OPNAVINST 3120.32B, provides regulations and guidance governing the conduct of all members of the Navy. This publication specifies duties and responsibilities of personnel within a unit organization—from the commanding officer down to the messenger of the watch. 2-13