Over the last few weeks, I’ve seen a ton of talk about what you’re supposed to do, or not do, during the National Anthem when played. So to clear a few things up here’s the law telling you how you’re supposed to act.
36 U.S. Code § 301 – During a public rendition of the national anthem where the flag is displayed;
Individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note; members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute in the manner provided for individuals in uniform; and all other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, and men not in uniform, if applicable, should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart; and when the flag is not displayed, all present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed.
Indoors – Military personnel don’t salute the national flag during indoor ceremonies when in uniform. When the National Anthem or “To The Colors” is played, personnel in civilian or military attire will stand at attention facing the flag (or the source of music if the flag isn’t visible).
Now there is no National Anthem SWAT team that’s going to sweep in because you broke this law by not standing, removing your hat when applicable, or placing your hand on your heart, and I guess you have the right to protest as you wish (those illegally blocking freeways and looting/burning businesses have validated this assumption). But, don’t be surprised if someone says a few select choice words to you, or you lose some endorsement deals, when you don’t do it right. via Facebook
