<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by texana:
Many of the NG folks are very young, have little training in 'civilities' and are bored out of their minds!
In Coast Guard we were told that 'one' did not salute in the house, in the church or in medical areas. Of course that was back when we were still using coal!
Well...not quite.
We always assumed that 'in the house' meant when we were guests in a superior officer's home (fat chance).
As for inappropriate wearing of head gear, makes me crazy.
A couple years ago (prior to the Millenium Dome project) I visited the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich England. Wishing to obtain whatever discounts I could get for a ticket to the museum and gift shop; I pulled out all my ID and membership cards in my wallet. BINGO!
Not only was I given a free ticket on the basis of my serive in the US Coast Guard, I met, greeted ('yes sirred' to pieces) and given a fabulous tour of the galleries. As an American who was wearing khakies and a polo shirt, I nearly died of embarrassment. I wished I was better dressed.
The British certainly do know how to respect men/persons of the sea!
Although the British have a strange way of saluting, think of a cross between a wave and a bird taking off, I appreciatted the gesture.
Everything in that Museum is done right, although the lighting is dim. Just make sure that you avoid the food!
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FWIW, in my branch of service, USAF Reserve, salutes are not rendered indoors. The exceptions are during change of command ceremonies and during the presentation of awards and decorations. If memory serves me well, a salute was rendered during a retirement ceremony; it was not returned, as the gentleman was seated as he received the U.S. Flag.