When the National Anthem is being played and the American Flag is raised (or is fixed on a flag standard) what is expected of Americans who love their country and want to show their patriotism?
Public Law 110-181 states "all persons present in uniform should render the military salute. Members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute.
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.
Citizens of other countries present should stand at attention. At such conduct toward the flag in a moving column should be rendered at the moment the flag passes."
To clarify, retirees may salute or place their hand over their heart to render respect to the U. S. flag.
[Editor's comment: The source for these instructions with regard to the American Fag and the National Anthem was printed in Afterburner, News for USAF Retired Personnel, September 2010.]
Posted on
Sun, July 17, 2011
by Hugh Morgan