In which situations would two enlisted persons exchange a hand salute?

The correct choice involves understanding the protocols and customs of saluting within the military. Enlisted personnel exchange hand salutes primarily to show mutual respect and recognition of rank during specific situations where protocol dictates it.

When rendering reports in formation or taking charge of a formation, a salute serves as a formal gesture acknowledging the presence and authority of superiors. This practice reinforces the hierarchical structure of military organization and demonstrates professionalism among service members. Saluting in these situations is also critical for maintaining discipline and order, reflecting the customs of the service.

Other options, while they may involve situations where saluting occurs, do not capture the routine exchanges of salute between enlisted personnel that are standard operations. For example, inspections and parades may have specific salute protocols, but they do not represent the broader contexts in which saluting as a form of mutual recognition occurs. Evening retreats typically involve a specific ceremony rather than the routine interactions between enlisted members. Therefore, the choice highlighting saluting during reports and formations accurately embodies the established military customs for when enlisted personnel acknowledge each other with a salute.