Modesto celebrated the 140th annivarsary of its Fourth of July parade on Friday. I did as I always do when the color guard goes by. I stood, removed my cap and stood proudly at attention before and during the passing of our colors. I and a few others were the only ones who did this. I was disgusted at the lack of patriotism. Here is excerpt from “The Daily Flag,” Parade Watchers, Section 9 of the Flag Code, which addresses this in detail.
During the ceremony of hoisting or lowering the flag or when the flag is passing in a parade or in review, all persons present except those in uniform should face the flag and stand at attention with the right hand over the heart. Those present in uniform should render the military salute. 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. Aliens should stand at attention. The salute to the flag in a moving column should be rendered at the moment the flag passes.
Lets get it right next time, Modesto.
Jim Ridenour, Modesto
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