Veterans now can render military-style salute to flag

Veterans and active-duty military not wearing a uniform are now allowed to render the military-style hand salute during the playing of the national anthem, and during the raising, lowering or passing of the flag.

This is something most civilians don’t think about. But for veterans and casually-dressed active duty military personnel, the recent change is important.

The reform was included in the Defense Authorization Act of 2009, which former U.S. President George Bush signed in October, 2008.

“Some veterans have always continued to salute the flag when out of uniform and knowing it was unauthorized,” said Richard Fletcher, chair of the PEF Veterans Committee.

“Many felt they had earned the right and privilege to continue saluting. Others did not, because they did not want to violate what was drilled into them as active service members: That a non-uniformed individual who renders a military salute to the flag dishonors the uniform worn by active service men and women.

“This issue heals a divide among veterans and honors the service provided by them,” Fletcher said.
— Deborah A. Miles