There s no Air Force Instruction or secret book of rules. Much of it comes from your values, experience and the influences you or others have on the personnel you deal with. There s a multitude of factors that influence military bearing, and every single one of them is in control of the individual, in other words, self-discipline. Probably one of the single most obvious things affecting your bearing is dress and appearance. Not just battle dress uniforms or desert camouflage uniforms, but also your service uniform.
First impressions mean a lot.
Weight and fitness play a major role in your appearance also. Not too many people are blessed to be able to eat all they want, not exercise and remain a stick person. I guarantee there are people walking around right now who, if they re not already on the program, should be. Another thing that stands out about military bearing is customs and courtesies and recognition and respect of ranking individuals. This is the most common way we have of showing respect, whether to one another or to our nation s flag.