Hats off gentlemen… and ladies too
To the editor:
I am writing today because when I attended the Memorial Day service I was stunned to see how many gentlemen (and ladies with ball caps) did not remove their hats during the Pledge of Allegiance or the Star Spangled Banner.
For those of you who don’t know or may have forgotten, the United States Code Title 36, Chapter 10 states “During rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed, all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. Men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should render the military salute at the first note of the anthem and retain this position until the last note. When the flag is not displayed, those present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag was displayed there.” “The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag… should be rendered by standing at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. When not in uniform men should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should remain silent, face the flag, and render the military salute.”
The custom of removing one’s hat is a gesture of respect. Some gestures like removing one’s hat for a lady, or when entering someone’s house, or at the dinner table have become mere historical footnotes. I would like to believe that showing respect for our country and flag are not in that category.
Times are tough enough with terrorism, political debate, and economic strife. Perhaps we could at least stand together to respect and salute our country, flag, and all those who fought and still fight for the Red, White and Blue. HATS OFF AMERICA!
J.E. Holcomb
Bokeelia