Since 1998, federal law (viz., the United States Code 36 U.S.C. § 301) states that during a rendition of the national anthem, when the flag is displayed, all present including those in uniform should stand at attention ; non-military service individuals should face the flag with the right hand over the heart; members of ...
Is it necessary to stand during national anthem?
§ 301) states that during a rendition of the national anthem, when the flag is displayed, all present including those in uniform should stand at attention; non-military service individuals should face the flag with the right hand over the heart; members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present and not in ...
How should a veteran stand during the national anthem?
All other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart , or if applicable, remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart.
Is it disrespectful for a civilian to salute a soldier?
Soldiers are required to perfect the military salute, as a sloppy salute is considered disrespectful . A proper salute involves raising the right hand with the fingers and thumb extended and joined together with the palm down.
Can veterans out of uniform salute the flag?
Recent legislation gives Veterans the lifetime privilege to salute the flag. This privilege is also extended to all active duty service members while not in uniform . They may now render the military-style hand salute during the playing of the National Anthem or during raising, lowering or passing the American flag.
Is a left handed salute disrespectful?
Saluting with the left or right hand has nothing to do with being disrespectful . The salute, in and of itself, no matter which hand is used, is respectful. The US military uses the right hand for a reason and that reason is utilitarian, not an issue of respect.
Why do Marines keep their right hand free?
Right Hand: Your spouse is required to keep his or her right hand empty in order to salute at any time. That means your spouse may need some assistance when carrying heavy loads .
Do Special Forces wear blue cord?
For example, Special Forces, Rangers and paratroopers have their own berets, infantry soldiers have blue cords they wear on their service uniforms , and cavalry soldiers have the Stetson and spurs.
Do you salute retired officers?
Yes, it is customary to salute them when you recognize them as officers , when they are in uniform or when they are participants in ceremonies. Security personnel (gate guards) at military installation entrances salute retired officers when they see their rank as they check ID cards, for example.
Are you supposed to salute without a cover?
The United States Army and United States Air Force give salutes with head both covered and uncovered, but saluting indoors is forbidden except when formally reporting to a superior officer or during an indoor ceremony .
Can a veteran salute during taps?
When taps is played during military funerals, military members will render a salute from the beginning until the conclusion of the song . Civilians should place their right hand over their heart during this time.
What do soldiers say when they salute?
Saying “ Good morning, Sir ,” or something along those lines is encouraged when you salute a superior. Perform the salute, then greet the soldier while holding the salute. If you are reporting to the officer, you should identify yourself and state that you are reporting. For example, “Sir, Private Jones reports.”
Why do soldiers salute with their right hand?
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.
What is the highest form of courtesy?
The salute is the highest form of military courtesy. It is executed by raising the right hand smartly until the tip of the forefinger touches the right eyebrow or the front brim of the headgear when covered.
Can soldiers drink in uniform?
Under the new AR 670-1, Soldiers traveling commercially on official business are authorized to wear the Army Combat Uniform, or ACU. ... Soldiers wearing their uniform may enter a liquor store to purchase package liquor, for instance. They may not, however, wear their uniform while drinking in a bar .
Can you chew gum in uniform?
Pay attention to dress and appearance. Don't chew gum in uniform . ... Keep your uniform clean and ready for inspection every day. Nothing screams professional better than a sharp Airman, properly groomed and attired, observing proper customs and courtesies.
