"Reveille" first originated in the Middle Ages as a wake-up call for soldiers. After this song was played, another song called The Rouse would be played, telling the soldiers to get out of bed. This tradition continued over the centuries, and is still serving the same purpose that it did during the Middle Ages. It is most often associated with the military, and it is chiefly used to wake military personnel at sunrise. The name comes from the French for "wake up". The United States military plays (or sounds) "Reveille" in the morning, generally near sunrise, though its exact time varies from base to base. While "Reveille" is played, the national flag is raised. On some U.S. military bases, it is accompanied with a cannon shot. As it is played all uniformed personnel are required to come to attention and present a salute either to the flag or in the direction of the music if the flag is not visible.
