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For
each branch of the armed forces, there are specific customs and
rituals for marriage. Not all military members will choose to have a
military wedding, but such a service can be a great way to demonstrate
loyalty and pride to your country. A
military wedding can only be held if the bride or groom is an active
or retired member of one of the military branches.
Military weddings
are usually held at chapels and synagogues on base, but can also be
held at another locations on or even off base. A military wedding can
be performed by the Officiant of your choice, however if the ceremony
is held by a military chaplain, etc., there is no fee for the service.
Arches
Of Sabers Or Cutlasses
The arch of sabers is what
really sets the mood in your military. The arch is symbolic in that it
wishes the newlywed couple a safe passage into their new life
together. When the ceremony is over, the ushers line up on both sides
of the chapel steps and perform the ritual. They then return their
weapons to their side and escort the bridesmaids down the aisle.
Attire
And Accessories
If
the groom is a member of the military, he must wear his appropriate
military dress uniform. If the bride is in the service, she has her
choice of wearing either her military dress uniform or a traditional
wedding gown. Either way, she may hold a bridal bouquet.
Marine grooms who are commissioned officers should wear white
gloves and carry sabers. Navy
grooms who are commissioned officers should carry cutlasses.
All saber or cutlass bearers wear white gloves.
Cutting The Wedding
Cake
On command, the saber or
cutlass bearers enter the reception room in front of the wedding cake,
while facing each other. The bride and groom pass beneath the
sword/saber arch again, approaching the cake. The groom hands his new
bride his unsheathed sword saber, and with his hands over hers, they
cut their first piece of cake together.
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