Weddings Military
In many ways, the U.S. Military wedding is like any other wedding. The ceremony itself is not a military service but a religious one. What makes it a military wedding is the attire and perhaps some traditions not found in civilian weddings. There is such pomp and circumstance, pageantry and patriotism in these sophisticated rituals.
The Arch of Sabers or Swords is an old tradition, the passage through the Arch symbolizes the welcoming and safe transition into the couples new life together.
For the most part the Arch of Sabers or Swords is similar with each Branch of Service. The Arch is preformed by Uniformed Military personnel, which will normally be your ushers (except the Air Force - please read below). The Arch takes place immediately following the ceremony, when the couple leaves the Chapel. In some instances the Arch can be preformed inside the Chapel, due to bad weather or a request to have two Arch of Sabers. This must be discussed with your Chaplain and approved before the ceremony.
The Arch of Sabers or Swords can be performed by Officers from a near by Military Academy, the National Guard, you or your fiancés peers and your chosen ushers if in the Military Service and Officers. You can check with you or your fiancés Commander to arrange for this service.
Pictures from Randolph AFB Bisli's Weddings
Congratulations Linda and Megan Sept 07
Congratulations
Air Force - The Arch of Sabres
The saber bearers cannot perform the function of ushers. The bearers head the processional lines, the chaplain waits at the top of the chancel and the saber bearers proceed until they form two lines directly in front of the chaplain, making sure that they leave enough room for the bride and groom to kneel. Upon reaching their positions, they pivot to face each other and pivot again to face the guests.
As the bride and groom pass each set, the saber bearers automatically face one another, and, as the bridal couple prepares to kneel, all saber bearers turn in unison to face the Bible on the altar.
When the blessing has been completed, all pause as the arch is formed before the couple leaves the chancel.
After passing through the arch, the bride and groom wait for a moment at the head of the chancel steps, and the command is issued to return the saber to the Badric (saber belt) or to carry sabers. The recessional is then commenced.
Pictures from Fort Sam Bisli's Weddings
Congratulations Johanne & Quacey's
The Wedding Reception
At the reception, if the groom is in uniform, protocol demands that he proceed the bride in the receiving line.
The national colors and distinguishing flags may be displayed, exactly centered, behind the receiving line, and if the reception room is large, the bridal couple may want an arch included at the reception instead of during the recessional.
Reccomended Reading and websites for the Military Wife:
Service Etiquette Fourth Edition by Oretha D. Swartz.
Download | Duration: 01:02:15
Military Spouse Magazine
http://www.militaryspousemagazine.com
LifetimeTV: ArmyWives
http://armyposts.lifetimetv.com
Thank you for your visit.
Pablo Vazquez, PBC
Bisli Event Services
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