The hand salute is for uniformed military personnel, not civilians. Once you're a civilian, and no longer 'living the life', then putting your hand over your heart is entirely appropriate. That's in no way disrespectful, and I'm surprised that anyone thinks it is insufficient. The issue should be about showing respect to the flag, not showing off that you have some military service under your belt by whipping out a hand salute at a ball game.
Retired military are not civilians.
A lot of legalize in the details but "retirement" pay means they can call you back any time they want. More like a retainer.
Agreed. In fact, one of the principle honors of citizenship is that we draw our military from it and veterans return to their role as civilians thus reinforcing the concept of free citizens without class distinction. Ex-military civilians saluting the flag, IMO, creates subtle civil divisions that emphasize the class distinction, or separateness, of the veteran. Honoring veterans is well, good and needed, but not appropriate when the focus is on honoring the flag.
SteelOne is right. I'm not qualified to salute anymore. I lost that honor when I was discharged from the military.
My dear friend died recently and he was in the Military
When ever I visit his grave I always salute and I'm a civilian.
Here here. I agree 100%!
A veteran has earned the privilidge of saluting. I'm not going to take it from them by citing some rule.
To all my fellow vets: Salute when you feel like it. You've earned the right; if somebody or something has earned your respect to a point where they deserve a salute, do your best!
Bingo. Even active duty OUT OF UNIFORM do not salute.
Nothing wrong with hand over heart, it's every bit as respectful and completely appropriate.
Is there a protocol for uniformed civilians to salute? I often see Boy Scouts, uniformed cops, and even fire chiefs in dress uniform saluting at various events.