Why do so few NASCAR drivers and teams hold their hand on their heart during the national anthem?

Question

I would really like to see someone besides the Army team show respect to America during the anthem. I noticed tonight that Jeff Gordon, Jimmy Johnson, nor Tony Stewart could bother with this small jesture of respect. From what I see on t.v., most drivers and teams don't bother. I know from going to races at Texas, that if you forget to take off your hat, some fan is yelling at you. Shouldn't someone tell the drivers to stop trying to be so cool and show some pride in their country.

Answer 1

Unfortunately they are part of the new America where pride in your country and it's flag are nothing. It's just another thing to wait out until they can get down to the business of racing. Unfortunately ever sport is plagued by these disrespectful people. It ticks me off to see any of them chewing gum, talking, every now and then a hat on their head. What a disgrace to the men and women who have fought and continue to fight for this great country.

Answer 2

I didn't realize that it is actually required. This is what I found: See section (:1) part (A) below. US CODE: TITLE 36–PATRIOTIC AND NATIONAL OBSERVANCES, CEREMONIES, AND ORGANIZATIONS SUBTITLE I–PATRIOTIC AND NATIONAL OBSERVANCES AND CEREMONIES PART A–OBSERVANCES AND CEREMONIES CHAPTER 3–NATIONAL ANTHEM, MOTTO, FLORAL EMBLEM, AND MARCH Section 301–National Anthem (a) Designation.–The composition consisting of the words and music known as the Star-Spangled Banner is the national anthem. (b) Conduct During Playing.–During a rendition of the national anthem– (1) when the flag is displayed– (A) all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart; (B) men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold the headdress at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart; and (C) individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note; and (2) 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. *HEXX*

Answer 3

That is one of those things that, unfortunately, gone out of style. I'd say it has something to do with their age, Jeff Burton and Ward Burton and their wives ALWAYS do it and they are not among the oldest. Even Juan Pablo could show a bit more respect since he is racing in an American sport!

If I were a team owner, the person caught being disrespectful would get a reprimand, etc. Especially if shown on TV.

Didn't Kevin James do a good job with "Gentlemen, Start Your Engines!"?

Answer 4

Ignorance, I'm guessing, rather than a conscious desire to insult the flag. The younger generation doesn't know what to do.

Incidentally, only men are supposed to remove their hats.

Answer 5

You forgot Jeff and Kim Burton, they are always true to the Red, White and Blue. They both always have their hand over their hearts.

Go Jeff Burton!!!!!!

Answer 6

At least Delanna Harvick took her hat off for a change.

Answer 7

It has always ticked me off when I see them just standing there, or even worse talking with their eye candy that is stuck in their hip pockets. Maybe they just don't know any better.

Answer 8

Because they would risk covering up a sponsor's patch on their driver's suit, heaven forbid.

Patriotism is all well and good, campers, but b'ness is b'ness...

LMFAO

Answer 9

They just don't know any better or don't care ?

A downward spiral if you ask me !

Answer 10

Good point.Not but a handful do it.