12 year VET

[emsdial911]

I am a 12 year disabled VET. I have been out of the service for 12 years and still feel awkward at events when they play the National Anthem. I still feel the need to salute the flag; I don’t feel comfortable putting my hand over my heart. To me it’s not enough respect. My question is, “What is the etiquette for saluting the flag?” Is it proper for someone not in uniform to salute the flag?

[Peter Ansoff]

Until recently, only military personnel in uniform were supposed to use the military salute. However, this has recently been changed. Check out the posts in this thread:

Veterans' Salute protocols

for all the details.

Bottom line: the flag code now says that you, as a veteran, can use the military salute, whether you're in uniform or not. There is still an issue involving active-duty Navy and Marine Corps personnel who are not in uniform, but that doesn't apply to you.

Peter Ansoff