

It is customary to return the salute whether you are in uniform or wearing civilian clothes. If it is a military member, they will salute officers. When you enter a military installation a gate guard will check your ID card. So the Marine Corps made it a rule, and that rule is enforced at Marine Corps bases from Okinawa, Japan, to Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. The thought process being that Marines must always present themselves as professionals, and having your hands in your pockets somehow detracts from professionalism. Why can Marines put their hands in their pockets? While civilians can salute soldiers, many veterans consider it inappropriate or awkward. Saluting the flag is a gesture reserved for the military. TLDR – Civilians should face the flag and place their right hand over their heart during the National Anthem. Is it rude to salute if you’re not in the military? The US military uses the right hand for a reason and that reason is utilitarian, not an issue of respect. The salute, in and of itself, no matter which hand is used, is respectful. Saluting with the left or right hand has nothing to do with being disrespectful. The United States Army and United States Air Force give salutes with head both covered and uncovered, but saluting indoors is forbidden except when formally reporting to a superior officer or during an indoor ceremony.

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