National Anthem Etiquette?

Question

People are making a big deal that Obama didn't put his hand on his heart during the National Anthem. I am a conservative Christian Republican and I don't put my hand on my heart. What is the rule? I know you do for the Pledge but do you have to for the National Anthem too?

Answer 1

I'm a former Marine... Here's the Etiquette.

Soldier in uniform (Marine) - Position of attention, right hand salute.

Soldier out of uniform / retired - Position of attention, right hand over heart.

Civilian with no hat / cover on head - Stand humble, right hand over heart.

Civilian with hat / cover on head - Stand humble, remove hat / cover, place cover over heart.

there are no exceptions!

Answer 2

this is from the u.s. flag code:

(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.

so yes, you absolutely should ALWAYS put your hand over your heart during the national anthem. it is a big deal. a lot of very brave people have died to give you the right to choose whether or not to respect the flag, but the code states what should be done.

Answer 3

I am aslo a Conservative Christian Republican, and I think it is a matter of personal preferance. The more important thing is that you show respect when the National Anthem is being played, and how you carry that out is up to you. Some salute, some put their hands behind their back, and others put their hands on their heart. I think it is more important to really think about what the National Anthem means and what it means to be an American than to worry about what you are doing with your hands.

Answer 4

I think you're supposed to put your hand over your heart. They usually play the National Anthem at the beginning of professional sports games, so if you look around then, you can see what people do. I'm not sure, because it's been a while since I've been to a professional sports game. But I think a lot of people put their hand over the heart, but there are also a lot of people who don't. I wouldn't say it's a big deal that Obama didn't. There are plenty of other more significant things to dislike about him.

Answer 5

Good question. I'll be interested in hearing what other people say. I always thought you took off your hat during the National Anthem, but I never heard that you have to put your hand over your heart (except for, as you say, the pledge).

Answer 6

I don't think there is a rule, as long as respect is shown.

I'm Canadian, and I am aghast when I see our football and hockey players, and your baseball and basketball and football players, during the playing of the anthem. The slouch. They chew gum. They talk. They spit. I think anyone who can set an example to young children should set a good one. It is a responsibility.

I'm a teacher in Taiwan, and national anthem etiquette here was a problem for me. The children salute the flag during the anthem. I don't, because being Canadian we only salute when in a military uniform including cap.

As long as people stand at attention and remain silent, I don't care what they do.

Answer 7

It isn't a specific 'law' for either, but is done as a show of respect for our nation during the pledge and anthem. During either it is a good time to reflect on our nation and those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedoms.And actually, men should remove their hats also. ( and pulling up their pants would be a nice gesture too LOL)

Answer 8

If you good people look it up a veteran at any event where the national anthem is played can wear a hat as long as they render a salute while the anthem is being played.

Answer 9

I don't know that you need to for the National Anthem... the Pledge, yes. Then Anthem, just standing and singing is enough, I believe. (and of course, removing your hat if you're a man)

Answer 10

If your military you salute the flag as the anthem plays. I was raised that as a civilian you remove your hat and place your hand over your heart. However I don't believe there is any sort of rule about that.

Answer 11

Generally, most people place their hand over their heart, while others stand with their hands by their sides. It's a matter of preference. The most important things are to be quiet and not be a distraction while the music is playing.