Seven basic responses

From USAFA Folklore

Unless given permission to speak freely, basic cadets and fourth class cadets are required to use only the seven basic responses when speaking with upperclassmen. These are:

• Yes, sir! (or Ma'am, as appropriate)
• No, sir!
• No excuse, sir!
• Sir, may I ask a question?
• Sir, may I make a statement?
• Sir, I do not understand!
• Sir, I do not know!

There are also some additional "canned phrases" which are not part of the 7 basic responses, but are frequently used:

• Correction please, sir!
• Pardon me please, sir!
• Sir, the answer is: . . .
• Sir, [title of the quote or knowledge to be recited], is as follows: . . .

Some basic cadets and fourth class cadets find it difficult to break the habit of responding with the imprecise "Sir, I believe . . . ." Upper class cadets quickly inform them this is not one of the seven basic responses and usually add, "You believe in your God and your country. That's nice but I want a straight answer."