Comments on: Veterans salute the flag—clarifying the change in the U.S. Code

By: Strange Bedfellows » Blog Archive » A reader clarifies federal law

Strange Bedfellows » Blog Archive » A reader clarifies federal law — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 14:26:26 +0000

[...] a press release issued in 2008 by the Department of Veterans Affairs and another from a group that monitors issues related to the flag. The sites explain the change and provide reference to the specific federal [...]

By: erleclaire

erleclaire — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 22:20:30 +0000

In this season, we might think of those who have served a very short time, and never survived basic traning or AIT. It is an honor to answer the call, regardless of the action one might have endured. No Soldier or frontline Warfighter would have survived had not others been faithful to deliver the necessary supplies and support. Likewise, in this time of year we should remember our Brothers (And Sisters) who are struggling in uniform, as well as those who are now civilian. Moreover, especially those who returned and have never been able to reengage; broken, maimed, and alone. They living in less than deserving care, under bridges and roaming the streets unable to let go, or move on; in many cases without healthcare. To all, we can give honor and hopefully relief. Estelle:)

By: Josephine

Josephine — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 21:51:33 +0000

As an Army veteran, it is indeed a pleasure as well as an honor to render a hand salute. Our years of sacrifice to this great country afforded us this right. In our hearts, minds, and spirits; we will always be a part of the Armed Forces, for life.

By: Dan Healy

Dan Healy — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 02:52:16 +0000

As a former Korean USN vet, who has served only four years from 1952 to 1956, and Honorably Discharged, It has always been my wish to be able to render a hand salute at the passing, raising and setting of the colors and the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem. Seeing that it is MY RIGHT to do so, I WILL render the hand salute at every applicable time that it would be appropriate as if I were still in uniform. My thanks to one and all who have served, for my Freedom. Thank You

Dan Healy, USN ADE2,
Korean Conflict

By: Pappy Harmon

Pappy Harmon — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:51:29 +0000

Ron, This is a tough question; but, I believe that you can salute the flag even though you served only 5 months honorably. The medical discharge should not change that.
It was always my understanding that we only had to complete Boot Camp to be considered as having served in the military. Maybe someone else can speak to this issue.

Anyway, I would suggest you let your heart dictate your actions. You obviously feel a lot of pride in what you were able to accomplish. Besides, the salute is a way of rendering respect to our flag.

Good luck,

Pappy Harmon
U.S.A.F. 1959-1963

By: Deborah Hendrick

Deborah Hendrick — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 18:42:53 +0000

Ron, your question is beyond my scope of authority. All I can advise is let your heart and conscience be your guide. However, many veterans read here—maybe they can counsel you. Best Wishes, Deborah

By: Ron

Ron — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 18:29:30 +0000

I was a member of the Air Force for just under 5 months and was Medically discharged due to an injury while in training. According to the Military, I am unable to claim Veteran Status because I was not in for a minimum of 6 months. My question is, Am I permitted to SALUTE the flag as a Veteran is now allowed?

Thanks

By: Tom Waskom

Tom Waskom — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 07:14:14 +0000

Sure is a lot of reading over something ment to be so simple. I spent time in two branches and served on active duty for 23 years. When on active duty, I followed the regulations of the Branch I was serving at the time. The purpose for changing the code / law was to let (veterans) know that by serving their country in the United States Military, they have earned the right to render a military salute during the raising, lowering or passing of my flag, during the National Anthem, or during the Pledge of Allegiance. As written the salute given by a veteran (not currently in the service) is while covered or un-covered in any type or style of clothing. Having the right doesn’t mean you have to. Either way, salute or hand over the heart is ment to show respect and is accepted as such. It is the individuals decision. As far as what the commander of your Branch of Service decides, that is also up to you the veteran.
As for me, my President signed into law my right to salute and that is exactly what I am going to do.
If a veteran is showing respect for his flag, his country or his comrade, only a bean counter question it.
3 years USMC, 20 years Army
18 years Federal Law Enforcement
1 year playing golf and fishing.

By: erleclaire

erleclaire — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:46:15 +0000

If one reviews the code at the very beginning of this string of comments it is clear as to Uniform and Civilian attaire, and options. Key word is “may” that is used in the prescription of tendering a salute and or hand over heart. If not a veteran, hence no salute, and out of uniform, it is hat at left shoulder and hand at heart. Again, as a woman veteran, I salute, and it is to those with whom we have served with that I honor. Moreover, the principles and liberty that has come at so high a price.
Side note: TN has now issued a Women Veteran license plate. One now adorns my bumper and is drawing a lot of attention.

Estelle:)

By: Sgt Dana Billotte

Sgt Dana Billotte — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:32:03 +0000

With regards to the discussion of being “covered” or “uncovered” – as a female, there are very few occasions when I find myself wearing a cover, especially when I would be attending an honored event like our upcoming Veterans Day celebration. The very fact that the the regulation assumes veterans are wearing civilian clothes means that a cover would be strictly optional. I do not feel that should prevent me from being able to render a salute to the flag that I served honorably for 14 years. So you can bet that I will be saluting at our outdoor flag raising this Wednesday!