O Say, Does That Star-Spangled Banner Yet Wave

We hadn't lived here long. Anxious to get engrained into the community, my wife and I sat patiently with our six kids along a parade route. As the prossession started, the American Flag came into view. As our family stood, I couldnt help but notice the number of people who remained seated and all together ignored our country banner.

I came to realize that day how it had become "popular" to show disdain for our country. Somehow people took pride in pointing out our nation's flaws and mistakes. What a great country that we live in that allows us the freedom to disrespect the very thing that gives us the right to do it.

I know this probably isn't politically correct with some of you. but I don't care. I love this country. So at the risk of drawing the Karen's ire, here are the perscribed guidlines to show our respect for the flag of our country.

The guidelines for showing respect to the flag are outlined in the U.S. Flag Code, a federal law that serves as a guide for voluntary patriotic conduct. According to federal statute these specific gestures and postures are meant to be rendered at the exact moment the flag passes.

When the flag is passing by, such as in an event or parade, you should adhere to the following steps as it approaches:

Face the flag: Stop walking and turn to face the direction the flag is traveling.

Stand at attention: Stand up straight with your shoulders back

Place your hand over your heart: Civilians place their right hand (palm open) over their left breast.

Remove your hat: If you are wearing a hat, remove it with your right hand and hold it at your left shoulder, ensuring your hand is still over your heart.

Military and Veterans: Members of the Armed Forces and veterans (even if out of uniform) may render a military salute instead of placing a hand over the heart.