Can soldiers in civilian clothes salute a fallen comrade memorial?

Its absolutely ok. 1SG (USA RET)

Ah the military, an entity that felt it would “authorize” a veteran - see former military current civilian - to do anything. An idea that I personally find comical. Being a veteran myself, no one currently in or previously having worn a uniform is going to tell me who and what I can and cannot salute.

It's all about honor. I got a buddy that died on the gun truck back in 2004 everytime I seen the flag I'm reminded of him and I throw a quick salute his name was Brandon Micheal Reed an awesome dude.

I do it any time that it would be an appropriate setting, i did it when my mother's cousin (a retired BG) out at DFW National,

It’s an honor and a privilege to salute its earned not given

Changes to the DAA ‘09 allows AD and vets out of uniform to salute during passing/raising/lowering flag or during National Anthem (see 36 USC 31). I have done all three. But for my Marine friends, I think they haven’t adopted that change. Regardless, saluting another individual or memorial isn’t mentioned in the law. Technically it’s not approved... but let’s be honest. If a Vietnam vet or my grandfather salutes me in or out of uniform, I’m returning the salute. Just let the man(or woman) pay her respect, leave a coin, and move on.

FM 22- civilian says do as you deem respectful.

I question the unit’s training schedule...the young SPC had nothing better to do

A salute is nothing more than a sign of respect and the military is not the sole authority on who can render a salute. Civilians, veteran or not, are not obliged to follow military regulations regarding saluting. Anyone who would have a problem with someone rendering a salute as a sign of respect really has too much time on their hands.

Wouldn't be prudent to attempt to stop, or correct me. The individual would receive a significant emotional event (SEE), and be promptly dismissed.