Who is required to be present to salute with cannon?

• A. A Commissioned Officer
• B. A Commanding Officer
• C. A Noncommissioned Officer
• D. The President

Answer: (A)

Ceremonial cannon salutes are conducted under formal supervision to ensure safety, proper timing, and adherence to ceremony etiquette. Only a commissioned officer holds the authority to issue the firing orders and oversee the sequence of the salute. This official presence guarantees the salute is carried out correctly and safely, with the appropriate respect and protocol.

A commissioned officer is the standard requirement because they have the authority to authorize the action and coordinate the details of the firing. Noncommissioned officers can assist and operate the guns, but they do not grant permission to begin the firing. The other possibilities describe roles that either do not carry the necessary authority or are not the general requirement for this ceremonial act.