when did the saluting of an officer in the military begin?

The origin of the hand salute is uncertain. Some historians believe it began in late Roman times when assassinations were common. A citizen who wanted to see a public official had to approach with his right hand raised to show that he did not hold a weapon. Knights in armor raised visors with the right hand when meeting a comrade. This practice gradually became a way of showing respect and, in early American history, sometimes involved removing the hat. By 1820, the motion was modified to touching the hat, and since then it has become the hand salute used today. When to Salute

Military ceremonies, pomp and circumstance they are indeed majestic to behold. The pageantry to represent the glory of those on whom the medals are bestowed. The uniforms a symbol of their honor like the knights of old, sworn to uphold the truth. And last the ball, with merriment and dances in honor of the one who stole your youth. A true tragedy, ma.

Middle ages when one knight met another he raised his visor and that has now been taken as a sign of respect to another fighting man

It's probably as old as organized militaries, and for the same reasons that the handshake began; to convey that you were not wielding a hand-held weapon.

It derived from Knights when they used to lift their visor to another knight, as a sign of non-aggression and mutual respect

Angel R's answer is straight from the Army book's so i would say go with his answer

it evolved from jousting in the middle ages when the two would raise their face masks after the bout

I cant beat angels answer but it was a long time ago..

Best I could find hipster ;)

http://usmilitary.about.com/cs/generalinfo/a/salut...

http://usmilitary.about.com/cs/generalinfo/a/salut...