Posted on Mar 24, 2016
Can soldiers in civilian clothes salute a fallen comrade memorial?
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I recently visited the Fallen Warriors Memorial on Cutten Road in Spring, TX. While I was there, I noticed a Veteran wearing a Vietnam hat and although I wanted to walk over to him and shake his hand, I decided to back off as he was paying his respects; however, prior to him leaving he stood in front of the memorial, came to attention and held a salute for a few seconds before bringing it down. So my question is actually coming from me as I've felt compelled to salute as well, but have refrained as I'm not sure what is correct.
Saluting
Customs and Courtesies
Fallen Soldiers
Memorial
Edited 8 y ago
Posted 8 y ago
Responses: 572
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I don't know where to begin, I am just so touched that congress actuality voted to allow me to render a hand salute, to those soldiers who served before me who have died. and also to salute the flag of my country.
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Last week I was at Bangor International Airport to pick up a granddaughter. There is POW/MIA memorial in the lobby. Whenever I’m there, I stop in front, come to attention and render a ceremonial salute. It’s the only right thing to do!!!
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1LT Peter Duston
And I touch the name of CPL Oscar Sprague listed as an MIA from Korea. His family never had a funeral or military honors. Almost to the day on the anniversary of his MIA status, our Legion got a military head stone and conducted full military honors for CPL Sprague for the 5 surviving sisters who had waited 70 years (Sept 2020) for closure. It was tender to watch the Army Honor Guard NCOIC hold his salute as the sisters passed the Flag from youngest to oldest - almost not a dry eye in that cemetery.
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I think it's very righteous and respect to salute fallen heroes if you are veteran
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I was saluting before my military days and since. Saluting, as with Sir/Ma'am, is not just a military thing. It is a way of showing respect to those you encounter or just a friendly hello/goodbye. Everyone loves being saluted. It is as warm as a hug. I salute you is a common phrase I often bestow.
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I salute the flag for the National Anthem, Taps, and when it passes by on a coffin...I'm a Vietnam Era Vet
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This is really a question to even worry about? If they are saluting it’s a sign of respect for the fallen. Do it and don’t worry about who’s looking. I personally salute at ball games and I see a lot of other veterans saluting also. If anyone gives you crap just ignore them and keep going.
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A salute is not the property of the military, it is an honor shared with fellow warriors
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If he or she is a fallen warrior, then they have earned that salute! It matters whether you're in your dress uniform or a homeless person a few days out from their last shower, respect transcends it all.
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I salute the Flag and will salute the fallen.
There's been times it has inspired other VETERANS to do the same.I have the Highest respect to my military brother & sisters. .
There's been times it has inspired other VETERANS to do the same.I have the Highest respect to my military brother & sisters. .
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