[operation clinton cleanup]

The salute is referred to as a "military courtesy." Reagan's return of the salute acknowledged and returned that courtesy; I saw it as an indication of the respect he held for our military and those of us serving in it.

Exactly! I'm no expert on customs and courtesies, but are uniformed military members required to salute the CINC? (whether it is expected to be returned or not)

[jimfree]

Exactly! I'm no expert on customs and courtesies, but are uniformed military members required to salute the CINC? (whether it is expected to be returned or not)

It is prescribed that all military salute those officers, including the Commander in Chief, that are senior.

[doc1019]

Considering that the President of the United States is the head of the military (General of Generals), he would be considered part of the military. Therefore he (though in civilian cloths) has the obligation to acknowledge the salute of those below him in the military … a hand salute would not be inappropriate. I don’t believe that there are any guidelines against saluting while in civvies.

Besides, what’s the big deal, the Pres. is only showing respect and acknowledgement for those in the military.

AND, as the head of the US Military, he can do as he wishes, and ignore established protocol if he wants (after all he is in charge).

As Vet myself, I always get somewhat of a thrill when he does return the salute.