Legislation Allows Veterans to Salute the Flag

[one-zero]

passing it along...

Legislation Allows Veterans to Salute the Flag

All,

Just thought that I would pass on new legislation clarifying allowing
Veterans and service members not in uniform to salute the flag. This may
seem like a small change, but I will now render a smart hand salute to the
flag during all appropriate public events. I would ask you to pass this on
to any current service members or Veteran


V/R

J. B.M.
CMDCM(SW) (Ret.)

Inhofe Legislation Allows Veterans to Salute the Flag

Ryan Cassin, 07.26.2007

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) today praised the
passage by unanimous consent of his bill (S.1877) clarifying U.S. law to
allow veterans and servicemen not in uniform to salute the flag. Current law
(US Code Title 4, Chapter 1) states that veterans and servicemen not in
uniform should place their hand over their heart without clarifying whether
they can or should salute the flag.

"The salute is a form of honor and respect, representing pride in one's
military service," Senator Inhofe said. "Veterans and service members
continue representing the military services even when not in uniform.

"Unfortunately, current U.S. law leaves confusion as to whether veterans
and service members out of uniform can or should salute the flag. My
legislation will clarify this regulation, allowing veterans and servicemen
alike to salute the flag, whether they are in uniform or not.


"I look forward to seeing those who have served saluting proudly at
baseball games, parades, and formal events. I believe this is an appropriate
way to honor and recognize the 25 million veterans in the United States who
have served in the military and remain as role models to others citizens.
Those who are currently serving or have served in the military have earned
this right, and their recognition will be an inspiration to others."

[The Reaper]

Let's see if it passes and becomes law.

TR

[Ret10Echo]

A BILL
To amend title 4, United States Code, to prescribe that members of the Armed Forces and veterans out of uniform may render the military salute during hoisting, lowering, or passing of flag.


Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,

SECTION 1. CONDUCT BY MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES AND VETERANS OUT OF UNIFORM DURING HOISTING, LOWERING, OR PASSING OF FLAG.

Section 9 of title 4, United States Code, is amended by striking `all persons present' and all that follows through the end and inserting `those present in uniform should render the military salute. Members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute. All other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, or if applicable, remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Citizens of other countries should stand at attention. All such conduct toward the flag in a moving column should be rendered at the moment the flag passes.'.

[Trip_Wire (RIP)]

I have always done this anyway. Of course, many times at various ceremonies I'm there representing the SFA, RICA or the 1st Cavalry Div. Assn., in their uniforms. I would do it, even when not in one of those association uniforms. It just comes natural! :D

I think it is a good idea! I have noticed though, that many Americans, to include a few veterans,' do not follow the correct procedures on honoring our flag, etc.

I see many that don't remove head gear, etc. I would be nice if they did one or the other correct procedures, especially when they have stuff on that ID themselves as Veterans. :eek:

I have talked to some veterans' later; however, I hate doing it! Most of the hats they kept on had military type stuff on them, like WW II Veteran, Korean Vet., etc.

One nice thing that has been done at a few ceremonies that I have attended was, that the speaker, or master of ceremonies announced the correct things to do for people attending, when the NA was played or pledge was made, etc. It's good to remind people of the proper procedures.

[PSM]

Fine and dandy. I'm all for it. But...

Do military regs apply? What about covered vs. uncovered? Does j. f. kerry's half-assed salute qualify?

Just asking.

Pat

[CPTAUSRET]

I render a hand salute...Didn't know it was inappropriate!

How the hell is anyone going to tell me I can not salute my flag?

[Tomahawk202]

I render a hand salute...Didn't know it was inappropriate!

How the hell is anyone going to tell me I can not salute my flag?

Good point......:o

[QRQ 30]

I render a hand salute...Didn't know it was inappropriate!

How the hell is anyone going to tell me I can not salute my flag?

The operative words are: "snould" and "may".
I don't see" "must", "can" or "can't".

It is also a clarification rather than a chanhge.

Not here, but I have seen members of another forum get all heated up over this. From my very first day of school, we"Pledged Alloegience" and sang the National anthem and the protocol concerning in ou our of uniform was taught. Notice I said "Uniform" which includes Public Safety, boy and girl scouts etc. I went to Catholic schools all of the way through college. I am surprised that students of public schools haven't learned likewise.