Is saluting mandatory?

Salutes are required when you’re in uniform. They’re exchanged on- and off-duty and on- and off-base. Salutes are exchanged when meeting outdoors and must be rendered during ceremonial occasions and in public gatherings when the National Anthem or the bugle call “To the Colors” is played.

Who is entitled to the salute?

Those persons entitled to the salute are commissioned officers of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and commissioned officers of allied nations in time of war. It is also customary to salute officers of friendly foreign countries when recognized as such.

When can a veteran salute?

Recent legislation gives Veterans the lifetime privilege to salute the flag. This privilege is also extended to all active duty service members while not in uniform. They may now render the military-style hand salute during the playing of the National Anthem or during raising, lowering or passing the American flag.

What does a slow salute mean?

Occasionally you will see slow salutes during a flag-passing ceremony as part of a retirement to indicate respect for the flag and the person who is retiring.

Can a veteran in civilian clothes salute the flag?

Veterans and Saluting Out of Uniform This change adds to a provision which was passed in the 2008 Defense Bill, which authorized veterans and military personnel in civilian clothes to render the military salute during the raising, lowering or passing of the flag.

Is it OK for a civilian to salute the flag?

Saluting the American Flag when in civilian attire MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute. MEN remove hats and hold at left shoulder with hand over heart; without hat, place right hand, palm open, over heart.

Do you salute when not in uniform?

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.