Thought my fellow veterans would find this of interest;


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 30, 2008

New Law Authorizes Veterans’ Salutes during National Anthem
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.
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WoW this is new! Hey AirborneSilve have you seen anyone on your post doing this yet?

quote:

Originally posted by roberx:
WoW this is new! Hey AirborneSilve have you seen anyone on your post doing this yet?

I don't work on post, FMWRC is headquartered in downtown Alexandria, we will be moving to Texas in the not too distant future (I can't wait), and then we will be on post. I don't think there are many people who know about this. I personally think it's a good thing and have always felt I should salute the flag - now I can

Long overdue in my book.

I'm always proud to salute my nation's flag.

Proud to have served; happy to salute!

Amen!

I salute the flag we have flying in our yard every time I leave the house, been doing that for years. I love this country with a passion. Neighbors think I am nuts, but, that is their problem, not mine