Vets Can Salute Old Glory In Or Out Of Uniform

[las47032]

GRAND RAPIDS — Go ahead, veterans. Salute the flag at sporting events and parades this summer — even if you're not in uniform.

A change in the U.S. flag code now allows both veterans and active servicemen and women to salute the flag without wearing dress attire. President Bush signed the code into law in January.

For those who prefer not to salute Old Glory, you still can stand at attention, remove your hat and place your right hand over your heart.

The change in code is causing mixed feelings among military members as they face the flag — some of whom have yet to decide whether they'll render the military salute.

Richard Straub, a Vietnam veteran, said he welcomes the clarification. "It lets the veteran show the respect he did when he was in the service, but it also reminds him of the patriotism he was allowed to show his country," he said.

Source: Uniform no longer required for veterans to salute the flag | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle

[cato2]

On the Ride For the Wall 2008, I cannot even remember a veteran who did not salute while wearing a cover. There were many occations for this to happen, and even those who had a handkerchief on chose to salute instead of placing their hands on their hearts. I suppose nobody was going to argue with the vets on the issue of patriotism.

It does seem strange that it would even be an issue with some.