Is It Appropriate to Salute a Veteran on Memorial Day?

When it comes to showing respect to veterans, the appropriateness of saluting can be a bit confusing. While the act of saluting is a tradition steeped in military protocol, its cultural relevance on specific holidays may vary. This article explores the etiquette of saluting a veteran during Memorial Day and provides context for why this gesture might be inappropriate or unnecessary on this particular occasion.

Understanding the Etiquette of Saluting

Civilians do not salute. Even within the military, saluting is primarily used among servicemembers, and it typically happens only amid peers and is conducted with respect to rank. While military members do salute one another, there are specific circumstances where it is not appropriate, such as on deployments or in indoors settings, or while wearing civilian clothing.

Knowing when to salute can be crucial; doing so unintentionally when it is not appropriate can be considered disrespectful. This is why it's important to understand the protocols.

The Debate: Saluting on Memorial Day

There is a growing debate among civilians and veterans about whether it is appropriate to salute veterans on Memorial Day. On this day, our focus is on the fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice. Memorial Day is a somber occasion designed to honor the men and women who died while serving their country, not those who are still living.

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, those who have served in the military are allowed to salute during Memorial Day. However, civilians without military background should refrain from saluting. Instead, they can express their respect and gratitude for the sacrifices made by veterans in other ways, such as attending parades, laying a wreath, or simply saying thank you.

Differences Between Memorial Day and Veterans Day

To further clarify the difference, it is important to understand the distinctions between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Memorial Day specifically honors those who have died fighting in past and modern wars, while Veterans Day is a broader celebration of all who have served.

Many veterans themselves prefer not to be saluted on Memorial Day. As one veteran put it, “Saluting is a mark of respect used by honorable persons who follow the profession of arms.” This sentiment resonates with many who served and who wish to be recognized for their service without the regimented formality of a salute. Saluting Veterans Day is more appropriate as it aligns with the broader celebration of all veterans who served.

Alternative Ways to Honor Veterans

While saluting can be a formal gesture of respect, there are many other ways to honor veterans, particularly on Memorial Day:

Attend Commemorative Events: Join local parades, ceremonies, and memorial services where veterans are honored. Visit Memorials: Take the time to visit war memorials and cemeteries where fallen heroes are remembered. Fly the Flag: Display the American flag at half-staff to show respect for those who have died. Express Gratitude: Take the time to thank a veteran for their service, even if they are not saluted. Donate: Support veteran organizations and charities that assist returning service members and their families. Lay a Wreath: Participate in or organize a wreath-laying ceremony to pay tribute to fallen heroes.

By engaging in these activities, you can contribute to the meaningful remembrance of Memorial Day without the need for formal salutes. It's crucial to remember the solemn nature of the day and the sacrifice of those who have died for our country.

Lastly, consider the example of other countries. In Canada, for instance, Remembrance Day is marked with parades, ceremonies, and the distribution of poppies. After the parade, veterans are often treated to a meal, and the handshake and offer of a drink have become a traditional way to thank them for their service, aligning more with a personal act of respect than a formal salute.

Ultimately, while it is respectful to salute veterans on Veterans Day, it is important to understand the distinctions and appropriateness of the gesture on Memorial Day, especially when it comes to honoring the fallen. By choosing alternative ways to show your respect, you can make a meaningful impact without causing any unintentional disrespect to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.