I believe you are a veteran. The Defense Authorization Act of 2009, signed by "W", allows un-uniformed service-members, military retirees, and veterans to render a hand salute during the hoisting, lowering, or passing of the U.S. flag and during the national anthem.
2009 should have been 2008. Sorry
“The Defense Authorization Act of 2009, signed by “W”, allows un-uniformed service-members, military retirees, and veterans to render a hand salute during the hoisting, lowering, or passing of the U.S. flag and during the national anthem.”
THANKS! I didn’t know that. I’ll admit, a salute FEELS more natural.