Which action is performed after presenting arms?

• A. Stand at Attention
• B. Proceed with Parade Rest
• C. Return to rest by lowering the weapon to the side (Order Arms)
• D. Step to the rear

Answer: (C)

Present arms is the ceremonial salute with the rifle raised for the audience or color. After completing that salute, you return to a neutral, controlled stance by lowering the weapon to the side into the rest position, which is called order arms. This completes the salute and brings you back to a secure, ready posture for what comes next. Standing at attention would keep you in a stiff, ready posture but isn’t the step used to finish a salute; parade rest is a different, more relaxed stance; stepping to the rear is a movement command, not the act of returning the rifle to the side.