Behavior at the competitions

[ShortBang]

Originally Posted by HeatherM

Another thought about the National Anthem (s), our National Anthem (not sure the policy in other countries) was written and intended to be a collective experience of patriotism and national pride. It is actually considered BAD MANNERS to stand quietly during the singing of the anthem. Unfortunately, our culture has allowed the anthem to turn into a performer/audience situation, which it was never intended to be. It is actually against United States flag code to applaud for the anthem.

I must respectfully disagree. It is not wrong to stand quietly during the National Anthem.

§301. National anthem

1. Designation. — The composition consisting of the words and music known as the Star-Spangled Banner is the national anthem.

2. Conduct During Playing — During rendition of the national anthem —

1. when the flag is displayed —

1. individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note;

2. members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute in the manner provided for individuals in uniform; and

3. all other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, and men not in uniform, if applicable, should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart; 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.