When walking with someone senior to you, where should you walk?

Walking on the senior person’s left side is the correct practice in military customs and courtesies. This position reflects respect and deference to the senior individual while allowing them to maintain a more assertive presence in a formal setting.

In a military context, positioning yourself to the left of the senior person is also practical as it typically aligns with protocols and traditions observed in formations and ceremonies, where the senior ranks are often situated on the right. Such practices foster order and discipline, reinforcing the hierarchy and respect inherent in military structure.

Choosing to walk behind or in front of a senior, while perhaps comfortable in other contexts, can communicate informality or a disregard for the established chain of command, which is not acceptable in military settings. Being to the right of a senior might also be less customary, as the left allows for clear visibility and engagement with the senior without overshadowing them. Thus, maintaining the proper position aligns with the values of respect and discipline that are critical in the military environment.