05.04.2009 9:01 am
Should you remove your hat during the National Anthem?
St. Louis Post-Dispatch
There’s an interesting conversation going on in Bernie’s Press Box.
The question is: Is it okay to leave your hat on during the National Anthem?
The arguments on both sides carry some validity. Show the flag some respect, say some. Our country is all about freedom of expression, say others.
In my family, the hats come off. What about in yours? Does it really hurt to take off a ballcap for a few minutes during the National Anthem, or is it all about the freedom to express yourselves? See what they’re saying in Bernie’s Press Box, and add your own thoughts.
I don’t know what’s worse: taking my hat off, or what my hair looks like under it after having it on all day.
Taking your hat off during the National Anthem shows respect to this great nation and shows all our soldiers, past and present, that we appreciate the hard work and sacrifice they have given so that we may live in a free country. Anyone who feels it is okay to leave their hat on during the National Anthem is a moron. God Bless the USA.
Thank you.
The symbolism of removing the hat during the anthem honors the men and women who have fought and died for your right to free speech. If you need to make a stand, make it before or after the minute it takes to sing the anthem. If you’re just too lazy, I suggest you go down to your local VA and speak with some of our nation’s finest - that tiny gesture of respect towards the flag and what it represents is the bare minimum that we can do.
I’m about as liberal as they come and am vehemently against the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Outlandish displays of patriotism often border on nationalism, which can hearken back to darker days in world history. But removing the hat is a matter of simple, modest respect. Take the caps off, men!
A sign of respect and appreciation, take it off.
i take my hat off, but i’m not offended if others leave theirs on.
it’s a country of choices.
to each his/her own.
besides, this nation is faced with more pressing issues.
Obviously people can argue what they wish on this but I think the “article” above should have at least mentioned that federal law proscribes what “proper” observance of the national anthem would entail. Specifically conduct during the national anthem has been specifically proscribed by the U.S. Flag Code (36 USCS 10):
§171. Conduct during playing
During rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed, all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. Men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should render the military salute at the first note of the anthem and retain this position until the last note. When the flag is not displayed, those present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed there.
While it is completely appalling that the Compost-Disgrace would have an article on such a trivial topic when there are actual problems in the world, I think people should take their hats off during the anthem.
Don’t forget women need to remove their ball caps as well, the only hats they should keep on are ones that are pinned to their heads.
I cannot believe this is even a question. We are going so far away from respect for anything (life, religion, opinion on lifestyle, etc) that I suppose I should’nt be surprised. It is my humble opinion that leaving your hat on during the National Anthem is a sign of disrespect. Today if you show respect to the elderly, women or (heaven forbid) disapline a child you are labeled a far right conservative. Well, count me in. I cannot wait to hear the liberals sprout their revelation on the disadvantage of respect. Call out the ACLU (they’re so cute).
During the National Anthem and prayer is when hats should be removed; however, if not no big ordeal, the Anthem is still sung and the prayer is still said.