Service members and veterans who are not wearing military uniforms can now use the military salute when the national anthem is played. The change in policy was implemented under a provision of the 2009 defense bill, which President Bush signed Oct. 14. A year earlier, Congress approved non-uniformed service members and veterans to use the military salute when the flag is raised, lowered, or passes by. “The military salute is a unique gesture of respect that marks those who have served in our nation’s armed forces,” says Veterans Affairs Secretary Dr. James B. Peake. “This provision allows the application of that honor in all events involving our nation’s flag.”
