Is it wrong if, as a veteran out of uniform, when the national anthem is playing I salute instead of putting my hand over my heart?

2015-02-02T04:29:15-05:00

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2015 4:45 AM

2015-02-02T04:45:27-05:00

As a veteran you have every right to salute.

Response by SPC Lukas Jones made Feb 2 at 2015 4:58 AM

2015-02-02T04:58:39-05:00

It may not be entirely appropriate, but as a military member out of uniform, we are expected to render a hand salute during the national anthem. If you are moved to salute, by all means do so! I challenge someone to correct you for showing pride in your country and your service!

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2015 5:00 AM

2015-02-02T05:00:40-05:00

Don't see a problem with it all the veteran organizations do it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2015 7:26 AM

2015-02-02T07:26:54-05:00

I agree with this whole heartedly

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2015 10:44 AM

2015-02-02T10:44:22-05:00

No you are good. You have every right and I thank you for it.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Feb 2 at 2015 12:03 PM

2015-02-02T12:03:57-05:00

It is appropriate, however optional, to salute instead of placing your hand over your heart if you are a vet/SM out of uniform. A recent law made it legal to do so as well.

Response by SFC Terry Fortune made Feb 2 at 2015 12:26 PM

2015-02-02T12:26:14-05:00

I agree with everyone. As stated a veteran has the right to render a hand salute during the National Anthem. As authorizes by the Defense Act of 2009.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2015 1:21 PM

2015-02-02T13:21:30-05:00

I always thought we couldn't out of uniform but learned recently that we could. So for now on I will be rendering a hand salute.

Response by Sgt Fenton Whoopie made Feb 2 at 2015 2:45 PM

2015-02-02T14:45:16-05:00

I would be the last man to criticize you for saluting.

Response by PFC Nicole Henderson made Feb 2 at 2015 3:08 PM

2015-02-02T15:08:31-05:00

No I don't think it is because we were tought that.. I still do to this day

Response by SPC David S. made Feb 2 at 2015 9:15 PM

2015-02-02T21:15:44-05:00

Perfectly legal now so salute away.

Response by SSgt Jay Dee made Feb 2 at 2015 9:24 PM

2015-02-02T21:24:46-05:00

This may upset some people but it is what it is. The Marine Corps does not allow someone to salute when not in uniform, period. I know some of you are reference hounds so; ALMAR 052/08, paragraph 3. It specifically mentions the law change as well. It states that regardless of the new law, Marines still adhere to the customs and courtesies that have been a solid part of our history. So, for Marines specifically, unless in uniform AND covered, you will not salute. You will simply stand at attention. If you are outside and covered and out of uniform, remove your cover and place it over your heart.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 2 at 2015 10:03 PM

2015-02-02T22:03:30-05:00

Nope. Not wrong. Considering that I'm still serving (Reserve), I too render the salute. It's never been an issue, and 2x/month at a minimum, I attend meetings of an organization where we always pledge allegiance. Never been an issue.

Response by CMC Robert Young made Feb 3 at 2015 7:09 AM

2015-02-03T07:09:47-05:00

Many of us do likewise. Good on you for rendering appropriate honors.

Response by MSG Floyd Williams made Feb 3 at 2015 10:11 AM

2015-02-03T10:11:31-05:00

Either way is fine with me, it is respect and patriotism!

Response by SGT James P. Davidson, MSM made Feb 4 at 2015 11:37 AM

2015-02-04T11:37:43-05:00

What is the accepted for a Veteran with civilian headgear - salute with, or remove it first?

Response by SPC Johnny Velazquez, PhD made Feb 4 at 2015 3:04 PM

2015-02-04T15:04:45-05:00

Thank you, 1SG. Spot on response. I attended a ceremony honoring our fallen brothers, and sisters. Many of us rendered a hand-salute, and an LT came over to us, stating that we were not allowed to salute. We had to set him straight. He was nice about it, and thanked us in return. I always render a hand-salute to WW2 Vets, the greatest generation.

Response by SGT Francis Wright made Feb 4 at 2015 3:07 PM

2015-02-04T15:07:43-05:00

Top hit the nail on the head

Response by MSgt Stephanie McCalister made Feb 5 at 2015 4:53 PM

2015-02-05T16:53:15-05:00

No, by law (Defense Authorization Act of 2008 & 2009) Veterans, Retirees, & Military in Civilian attire, are permitted to salute for Pledge of Allegiance, National Anthem, & Anything Flag related.

Response by CPT Carlos Ribadeneira made Feb 10 at 2015 8:25 PM

2015-02-10T20:25:31-05:00

I've always thought that Veterans should render a hand salute when the Anthem is played or the flag passes by, and was glad when we were authorized to do so when they passed the Defense Authorization Act of 2009. I've done it ever since, and have informed my other friends that are also Veterans, to do the same. HOAH!

Response by CPT Carlos Ribadeneira made Feb 10 at 2015 9:05 PM

2015-02-10T21:05:22-05:00

Rules for Rendering Hand Salute of U.S. Flag
Law Now Allows Retirees and Vets to Salute Flag

Traditionally, members of the nation's veterans service organizations have rendered the hand-salute during the national anthem and at events involving the national flag only while wearing their organization’s official head-gear.

The National Defense Authorization Act of 2008 contained an amendment to allow un-uniformed servicemembers, military retirees, and veterans to render a hand salute during the hoisting, lowering, or passing of the U.S. flag.

A later amendment further authorized hand-salutes during the national anthem by veterans and out-of-uniform military personnel. This was included in the Defense Authorization Act of 2009, which President Bush signed on Oct. 14, 2008.

Here is the actual text from the law:

SEC. 595. MILITARY SALUTE FOR THE FLAG DURING THE NATIONAL ANTHEM
BY MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES NOT IN
UNIFORM AND BY VETERANS.

Section 301(b)(1) of title 36, United States Code, is amended by
striking subparagraphs (A) through (C) and inserting the following new
subparagraphs:
``(A) individuals in uniform should give the
military salute at the first note of the anthem and
maintain that position until the last note;
``(B) members of the Armed Forces and veterans who
are present but not in uniform may render the military
salute in the manner provided for individuals in
uniform; and
``(C) all other persons present should face the flag
and stand at attention with their right hand over the
heart, and men not in uniform, if applicable, should
remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it
at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart;

Note: Part (C) applies to those not in the military and non-veterans. The phrase "men not in uniform" refers to civil service uniforms like police, fire fighters, and letter carriers - non-veteran civil servants who might normally render a salute while in uniform.

Response by LTC John Wilson made Feb 11 at 2015 12:45 PM

2015-02-11T12:45:25-05:00

No it is not wrong. The Defense Authorization act of 2008 allows veterans out of uniform to salute. It is a privilege well earned by all.

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made May 20 at 2015 8:33 PM

2015-05-20T20:33:38-04:00

http://www1.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=1609

New Law Authorizes Veterans’ Salutes during National Anthem
October 30, 2008, 08:00:00 AM

WASHINGTON -- Veterans and active-duty military not in uniform can now render the military-style hand salute during the playing of the national anthem, thanks to changes in federal law that took effect this month.
“The military salute is a unique gesture of respect that marks those who have served in our nation’s armed forces,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Dr. James B. Peake. “This provision allows the application of that honor in all events involving our nation’s flag.”
The new provision improves upon a little known change in federal law last year that authorized veterans to render the military-style hand salute during the raising, lowering or passing of the flag, but it did not address salutes during the national anthem. Last year’s provision also applied to members of the armed forces while not in uniform.
Traditionally, members of the nation’s veterans service organizations have rendered the hand-salute during the national anthem and at events involving the national flag while wearing their organization’s official head-gear.
The most recent change, authorizing hand-salutes during the national anthem by veterans and out-of-uniform military personnel, was sponsored by Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma, an Army veteran. It was included in the Defense Authorization Act of 2009, which President Bush signed on Oct. 14.
The earlier provision authorizing hand-salutes for veterans and out-of-uniform military personnel during the raising, lowering or passing of the flag, was contained in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2008, which took effect Jan. 28, 2008.

News Releases - Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs

Provides a list and brief description of news releases issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Most news releases are also available as Word files to download.

Response by SGT Anthony Bussing made May 20 at 2015 8:39 PM

2015-05-20T20:39:02-04:00

a question...if Im wearing a ball cap at say...a local h.s. football game...do I remove my cap before I salute or just leave it on as a cover?

Response by COL Charles Williams made May 20 at 2015 8:41 PM

2015-05-20T20:41:39-04:00

No, it is not wrong.

Response by SPC David S. made May 20 at 2015 8:53 PM

2015-05-20T20:53:54-04:00

I usually do salute flag in such occasions. I may be retired but I'm still and always will be a Soldier at heart.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2015 9:50 PM

2015-05-20T21:50:12-04:00

I do the hand on the chest just because I like to be unknown. However you have every right to salute if you feel the need. On a side note I went to a baseball game the other day and the anthem was playing and below my row I can see this lady still eating and chatting away I got mad because it was military appreciation day and we were in a reserved section for service members and dependents so I know she was either a member or a dependent either way I hated that and on the other hand I loved because it showed how free America is because of us brave ones. So I guess I'm indifferent not really I was upset. My hometown friends joke every time I stand while the anthem plays on the TV but I can't help it I love the red white blue.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2015 1:30 AM

2015-05-21T01:30:48-04:00

No, it's not wrong. It use to be that you could not do so, but now you can salute. Plus, if you want to salute your flag you have every right to. Be proud and salute.

Response by Capt Vickie Adams made May 21 at 2015 4:37 PM

2015-05-21T16:37:15-04:00

Not at all!

Response by PO3 Robert McCray made Jun 6 at 2015 2:04 PM

2015-06-06T14:04:21-04:00

No the new law says if you served in the military you can salute the flag.

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Apr 15 at 2016 11:30 AM

2016-04-15T11:30:39-04:00

I knew us old retired guys were covered by what 1SG Mark Rudolph quoted, it is good to know that Veterans of all stripes are also covered. Even if it were not the case, I would support you saluting as a fellow Veteran.

Response by SSG Dale London made May 6 at 2016 11:32 AM

2016-05-06T11:32:45-04:00

I recall being taught the army law in basic. "Pick it up. If you can't pick it up, paint it. If you can't paint it, salute it."
When it doubt, whip it out (your salute, that is!).

Response by COL Eric Rojo made May 7 at 2016 3:52 PM

2016-05-07T15:52:43-04:00

no, it is not. However, now it is proper to render the military hand salute for active and retired members of the Armed Forces (including Reserve and National Guard)

Response by SGT David Terry CHST CSST made May 7 at 2016 8:08 PM

2016-05-07T20:08:54-04:00

Under the new policy that President Bush signed into effect when he was in office, it is now allowed for any active or veteran to salute the flag during the national anthem, or during revelry and retreat even in civilian clothing.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made May 10 at 2016 4:21 PM

2016-05-10T16:21:35-04:00

Personally I don't believe so, especially if your head is covered. Hell, I still find myself standing at the position of attention when the Anthem plays. Breaking old habits is hard. As long as you're not disrespectful. I still see people gabbing on their phones while the Anthem plays, so at least you aren't in that category.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Feb 7 at 2017 8:10 AM

2017-02-07T08:10:56-05:00

Had a hard time not saluting when I heard the anthem after I retired. Later learned that could put hand over heart or salute so pretty much always salute now.

Response by SPC Johnny Velazquez, PhD made Feb 7 at 2017 4:25 PM

2017-02-07T16:25:40-05:00

I'm in total agreement of a hand salute. Some years ago, I saluted, at a Memorial Day service. The Non-com in charge approached me after the service, and told me that what I did was not authorized. He was a young buck who seemed to have a disdain for Vets. Had he advised me in a respectful way, I would have thanked him. Instead I asked, "What, are you gonna recommend a Court-martial?" With that, I gave him a smart salute, and went my way. Glad the law changed.

Response by Capt Joseph Olson made Feb 8 at 2017 12:29 PM

2017-02-08T12:29:34-05:00

No. I have been doing it for 40 years. It was never "wrong", but Congress cleared up any confusion about 10 years ago by expressly authorizing the practice.

Response by SMSgt Timothy Cathers made Feb 9 at 2017 5:02 PM

2017-02-09T17:02:53-05:00

No. It is perfectly OK.

Response by MAJ Raymond Haynes made Feb 12 at 2017 6:12 PM

2017-02-12T18:12:41-05:00

What are they going to do? Throw me in Leavenworth for a salute to our National Anthem.

Response by PO1 Toby Bradley made Feb 12 at 2017 7:14 PM

2017-02-12T19:14:46-05:00

Remember the old saying -- do it now, and apologize later. A veteran has earned the right to salute the flag WHENEVER and where-ever he or she desires. if it insults you, ask them politely to apologize for offending you. If they're feeling generous, they might tell you that they're sorry you're an idiot.

Response by GySgt Melissa Gravila made Feb 12 at 2017 8:39 PM

2017-02-12T20:39:14-05:00

A salute, as well as your hand over your heart are both signs of respect and allegiance to our flag and our Nation. I say go for it!
S/F

Response by SCPO William Akin made Feb 12 at 2017 8:42 PM

2017-02-12T20:42:15-05:00

I was schooled as a youngster to stand tall, uncover and put my hand over my heart.. Call me old school, but those lessons die hard.. As long as respect is being paid I have no problems..

Response by SFC George Smith made Feb 12 at 2017 11:41 PM

2017-02-12T23:41:03-05:00

in 2003 President GW Bush Signed into law permission for veterans and retires to render Hand Salute at proper times as opposed to the hand over the heart, even in civilian Clothing...

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Feb 13 at 2017 12:10 AM

2017-02-13T00:10:38-05:00

The Defense Authorization act of 2009, Section 301 (b) (1) Title 36 made a change to Federal law to allow ALL Veterans and ALL active members of the US armed Forces to salute during the playing of the National anthem or too the colors. Prior 2009 everyone, veteran, Military member or civilian would place their right hand over their heart and if You were wearing a hat remove it and hold it in Your right hand over Your heart. That change in the law during 2009 authorized the salute in civilian clothes for the first time by Veterans and military members only, the protocol for civilians hasn't changed. Civilians as an example in Police, Fire etc. may however salute if they are in their uniforms. The Military policy change applies to ALL services, Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard.
My main concern is honor the national anthem or playing of To the colors either by salute or hand over Your heart. I have no problem with either. Face the flag if it visible to You, if not face in the direction of the music or if You know the flags location that direction is fine.

Response by SPC Greg Burnett made Feb 13 at 2017 2:02 AM

2017-02-13T02:02:46-05:00

Don't specifically know if it is right or wrong..., but I reserve the right to salute whenever it would be appropriate for a service member in uniform to do so. More or less.
National anthem or taps at a funeral for a vet? Yep.
If I am meeting someone that I know to be a vet and whom I personally respect, regardless if they were enlisted or commissioned, I may well salute them.
If I had had the honor of meeting General Hal Moore or CSM Plumley or someone like that, you're damned right I would have saluted them. Maybe 3 or 4 times.
If I am somewhere where there are officers walking around? No, I don't salute then.

Response by Cpl Ray Frigerio made Feb 13 at 2017 10:47 AM

2017-02-13T10:47:15-05:00

As a marine , I can't salute in mufti. I'm not exactly a civilian, so I do what I did when I was on active duty ; PoA.

Response by SFC Benjamin Parsons made Feb 13 at 2017 12:10 PM

2017-02-13T12:10:22-05:00

A fairly recent federal law authorizes veterans of any service to render a military salute at appropriate times.
I know too that the Army authorizes (not requires) active duty soldiers to salute an officer while in civilian attire.
Having spent the earliest part of my career in the Marine Corps, I could/can not bring myself to do either.

Response by PO2 David Adkins made Feb 13 at 2017 5:07 PM

2017-02-13T17:07:54-05:00

I salute every time, at parades, ball games where ever. I earned that right, and to me it is precious.

Response by PO2 David Adkins made Feb 13 at 2017 5:11 PM

2017-02-13T17:11:42-05:00

I salute at every opportunity, I have earned that right.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2017 7:16 PM

2017-02-13T19:16:35-05:00

I have done so since the policy changed.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Feb 13 at 2017 7:17 PM

2017-02-13T19:17:46-05:00

You are allowed to salute if on AD or a Veteran.

Response by SSG Bryan McDougal made Feb 13 at 2017 11:13 PM

2017-02-13T23:13:14-05:00

I knew it had changed a few years before I retired but was unsure of the actual regulation on it so I didn't. I will from now on, proudly. Thanks Top!

Response by SSG Paul Wilson made Oct 2 at 2019 12:15 PM

2019-10-02T12:15:59-04:00

I can remembered that during my brother-in-law 's memorial which he was a Vietnam veteran. I rendered a hand salute while taps was played. Oh by the way I am a retired Army veteran.

Response by SPC Rick LaBonte made Oct 2 at 2019 4:02 PM

2019-10-02T16:02:24-04:00

I don’t have the exact law, but all veterans are authorized to use the standard military salute for the anthem and flag raising ceremonies

Response by SSG George Dewees made Oct 2 at 2019 9:06 PM

2019-10-02T21:06:50-04:00

I didn’t need a law or declaration! I Salute! Always have and ALWAYS WILL! And there isn’t a damn thing anyone is gonna do about it! My Country, my service, my commitment! Nuff said!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 3 at 2019 9:26 AM

2019-10-03T09:26:39-04:00

I'd like to see a government official attempt to arrest me for rendering a hand salute to the National Anthem while I am in civilian attire. Yes, I am sure there is an obscure regulation about the hand salute that I do not know, but I will continue to salute officers who I know are senior to me, even when we are both in civilian attire.

Response by Sgt William Graham made Oct 26 at 2021 3:48 PM

2021-10-26T15:48:02-04:00

Respect