Posted on Jan 30, 2015
SPC Emergency Medical Technician (Emt)
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I have heard that we do not salute and we are only allowed to place our right hand over our hearts.

But IAW The National Defense Authorization Act of 2008, it 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.

I would prefer to salute, myself. I feel that it's a greater respect that we have earned, and many have died for.
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Responses: 13
SSgt David Walden
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I agree... We veterans have earned the honor of saluting the American flag in or out of uniform. I do not need a regulation or document to give me that permission and the opinions of others on this matter concerns me not.
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LTC Paul Labrador
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As long as they render appropriate honors to the flag (and in turn act as an positive example to civilians around them) I really don't care if they do it with a hand over the heart or a salute.
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SGT Bryon Sergent
SGT Bryon Sergent
9 y
LTC Paul Labrador, was just throwing it out there for others. I apologize for the misconception Sir.
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LTC Paul Labrador
LTC Paul Labrador
9 y
@SGT Bryon Sergent, gotcha. No worries.
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SGT Jim Z.
SGT Jim Z.
9 y
Great response sir and I agree because there are times I place my hand over my heart and other times I just stand at position of attention.
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SP5 William Camacho
SP5 William Camacho
9 y
Outstanding answer sir. As a veteran, many of my fellow brothers in arms gave their very lives for the freedom the flag represents. So as long as I am alive , I will render the ultimate respect of saluting anytime it is raised and lowered. You can take the soldier out of the military, but you can't take the military out of the soldier.
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MSG Intermediate Care Technician
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I was once at a parade years ago, and I was in my civilian attire. The Color Guard was coming into view and a friend of mine asked me if I was going to stand and render a salute. My answer was a short and simple "Damn Skippy I am."
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