Letters – Vets invited to stand, salute
To the Editor:
The following article appeared in the “Army Echoes,” which is an official publication for retired Army personnel. We have a great number of veterans in this area, and it would be wonderful if this word can be gotten to them. I am a retired Army officer and am most proud of my right to salute our flag. Thanks much.
“Saluting The Flag
I
t’s customary if you’re in the military, to stop whatever you’re doing and salute the American flag at any ceremony of hoisting or lowering the flag, at revelry or when it is passing by in a parade or review. For those who have spent time in the military and then gotten out, or retired, that habit is one that is difficult to break.
In the 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, (Public Law 110-181) Congress changed Section 9, Title 4, US Code, that covers “Conduct during hoisting and lowering of passing of the flag.” Don’t hesitate to share this information with veterans you know, so that they’re aware of the change. The section of US Code that was changed, reads as follows:
‘During the ceremony of hoisting or lowering the flag, or when the flag is passing in a parade or in review, all persons 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 present should stand at attention. All such conduct toward the flag in a moving column should be rendered at the same moment as the flag passes.’
I’ve often heard veterans express their desire to be authorized to salute the flag. Even though they’re retired or no longer in the military, doesn’t mean that their respect for our country and its symbol, the Stars and Stripes, is any less. This was a great move by Congress.”
James Fleming
Lockhart
