Vets Can Now Salute The Flag

Vets can now salute the flag.

For years, Veterans have wanted to salute the U.S. flag during the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem instead of just placing their hand over their heart. Now they can.

A congressional Amendment sponsored by Senator James Inhofe (Oklahoma) in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 specifically states that "members of the Armed Forces and Veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute." Veterans can salute the flag during the National Anthem as well as during "the hoisting, lowering and passing of the flag."

"The salute is a form of honor and respect, representing pride in one's military service" said Inhofe. "Veterans and service members continue representing the military services even when not in uniform. The U.S. Code is now consistent for Veterans and all service members in regards to the symbolic gesture of the military salute."