Parade-goers need to show proper etiquette, respect toward flag

Vets, we are fortunate enough to live in one of the finest counties in the state. Northeast Oregon is full of patriots and veterans who respect this nation and our flag.

In the summer months it seems that a week doesn’t go by that we have parades in which we celebrate this country and the cities within.

Be it county fair or local rodeo, the flag and what it stands for, what we fought for, leads the point of every parade.

In a few of the parades, I as well as other veterans have noticed that there are fellow citizens who have not been enlightened on the proper etiquette and respect owed to the flag of the United States of America.

I’ve been ask to inform the readers of this column of proper flag etiquette during ceremonies or parades. The flag is found in the United States Code Title 4. In Chapter 1 Section 9 it states “During the ceremony of hoisting or lowering the flag or when the flag is passing in a parade or in review, all persons present in uniform should render the military salute. Members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute. All other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, or if applicable, remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart.

“Citizens of other countries present should stand at attention. All such conduct toward the flag in a moving column should be rendered at the moment the flag passes.”

The above seems so simple to some of the older folks out there but I have had many of my veterans ask me to address this issue.

As you folks can see, if you have any issues that deal with veterans, feel free to contact me. If it concerns you, chances are it is concerning other veterans. Feel free to contact me at 541-962-8802. I am located at the Center for Human Development, 2301 Cove Ave, La Grande.

Byron Whipple is the Union County veterans service officer.