According to military etiquette, who should walk or sit on the left side?

In military etiquette, individuals of lower rank are expected to walk or sit on the left side. This practice stems from the tradition of displaying respect and deference to those of higher rank. When two individuals are walking or seated together, the person of higher rank is positioned on the right, as being on the right side signifies honor and precedence. This etiquette helps establish a clear hierarchy and ensures proper respect is maintained within the ranks.

While higher-ranking personnel occupy the primary position, equal ranks typically do not have a designated protocol for left or right placement, as they are considered peers. Guests and visitors also do not have the same conventions as military personnel, so their positioning is often based on context rather than rigid protocol.