Posted on Feb 2, 2015
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?
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Saluting
Drill and Ceremony
National Anthem
Posted 11 y ago
Responses: 58
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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.
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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.
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SMSgt Lawrence McCarter
I had always put My hand over My heart before but now I give a proper military salute. The Defense Authorization act of 2009, Section 301, (b) (1) Title 36 provided the right odfany veteran and also current member of the US Armed Force to salute while in civilian clothes when either the National Anthem or to the colors is played. Face the flag if it can be seen face the direction of the music is the flag cannot be seen. In civilian clothes You can still choose to put Your hand over Your heart if that is Your choice but You are authorized to salute instead if You choose. You have earned the right to salute through Your Military service, a non Vet would put His hand over His heart. (the exception for example would be civilian Police and Fire Dept people etc but in uniform only )
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SFC Richard Bennett
SMSgt Lawrence McCarter - Your reply is best ! We interact with many groups , most have Vets in them and they all support our Veterans!
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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.
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GySgt Melissa Gravila
Semper Fi Devil Dog except when that said Marine is wearing a cover and uniform from DAV, VFW, etc. I am a lifetime member of the DAV, and former JAG/Adjutant for my local chapter. When performing various ceremonies, ( flag folding, monthly meeting, funerals etc) as a sign of respect to my fellow chapter members, Marines, flag, and country I will render a salute.
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SMSgt Lawrence McCarter
SFC Don Ward -On approach to a Gate in a vehicle, You will come to a full stop in Your private vehicle and sit at attention. You will not move the vehicle until the national anthem's last note is completed. No one is required to exit the vehicle and You should not in a civilian Vehicle. The same response would be required anywhere on the installation, not just at entry gates No vehicle should be in motion during the playing of the National anthem. The same applies to the playing of to the colors.
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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.
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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.
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SMSgt Lawrence McCarter
I agree SFC Davidson, that disrespect is something I also would not like and its no joke standing while the National anthem plays, I would never consider not doing so.
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