How does a Sword Arch work in a military wedding?

The Military Arch of sabers or swords is an elegant and formal ritual that the men and women in the armed forces are privileged to use as part of their military wedding.  It is not mandatory, but does make an impressive and memorable element of the military wedding ceremony. The Arch is an old tradition, and the passing of the bride and groom through it symbolizes a welcome and is meant to assure the couple’s safe transition into their new lives together. As part of the tradition, as the couple is ready to pass out of the Arch, they pause as the last two men that make up the Arch, lower their swords in front of the wedding couple, detaining them briefly. Then the sword bearer on the right, with his sword or saber, gives the bride a gentle “swat” on the behind and says, “Welcome to the_______________(appropriate branch of service), Mrs.___________” If the bride is in the military, this part is omitted.

The arch is formed by an honor guard of two rows facing each other and made up of any member of the military who would usually wear a sword or saber when in dress uniform. The Army and Air Force wear sabers, while the Coast Guard, Marine Corps and Navy wear a sword. The swords or sabers are curved and have only one cutting edge which is turned up when forming the Arch. If one of the honor guard should also be a military wedding attendant (usually it is made up of the ushers), he or she must be in full dress uniform. Only commissioned officers, SNCOs and NCOs can carry sabers or swords and participate in the honor guard in a military wedding.

The military wedding groomsmen normally participate, but other officers, including guests, may be designated to form part of the honor guard. Usually six to eight officers are chosen. The head usher normally issues the commands to form and dismiss the Arch.

The Arch takes place immediately following the military wedding ceremony, preferably on the steps or walk in front when the couple leaves the chapel or church. Traditionally, a sword should never be unsheathed inside a religious sanctuary. However, the Arch may be formed inside the chapel or church, with permission, in case of bad weather, or for staging it at the reception. Also, with permission, you may be allowed to have two Arches; one inside the church and one outside.

Although the Arch is similar with each branch of service, there are variations that you will want to observe for your own. Check with your Chaplain about matters regarding the sanctuary and your commanding officer regarding protocol to your branch of service.