Remembering our vets, honoring the flag

Published Nov. 8, 2007
By Chief Master Sgt. Dennis Vannorsdall
45th SW command chief

PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Sunday is Veterans Day, a day to honor and reflect on all of those who served this nation as a member of the United States Armed Forces. According to the Senate Resolution 357 that was passed Oct. 26, tens of millions of Americans have served in the Armed Forces of the United States during this past century. Hundreds of thousands of Americans have given their lives while serving in the Armed Forces.
The contributions and sacrifices of the men and women who served in the Armed Forces have been vital in maintaining the freedoms and way of life enjoyed by the people of the United States. In Brevard County, we live amongst thousands of veterans from all branches of the Armed Forces. This weekend, if you come across a veteran, or if you know a veteran ... neighbor, family member, or an acquaintance, please remember to make a special effort to shake their hand and give a warm "thank you." We owe all vets a debt of gratitude for their sacrifice and service.
This is also an opportunity to remind ourselves on the proper protocol during reveille and retreat. At Patrick AFB and the Cape, this is normally at 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.. When outside and in uniform, face the flag (if visible) or face the music. At the first note of reveille or retreat, come to the position of attention and immediately go to the position of parade rest. At the first note of the National Anthem or To the Colors, come to the position of attention and render the salute. Drop your salute after the last note is played, or when the flag has been fully raised or lowered.
If the flag is being flown 24 hours and illuminated during the hours of darkness, render the salute at the first note of the National Anthem or To the Colors. If there is no music, face and salute the flag as it is being raised and lowered.
When in civilian clothes and outdoors, stand at attention and place your right hand over your heart.
If in a vehicle during reveille or retreat, pull the car to the side of the road and stop. All occupants sit quietly at attention until the last note of the music has played.
As we enjoy the upcoming three-day weekend, let's not forget its purpose ... to honor the sacrifice and service our veterans have made in defense of our country, and as you salute our Nation's great flag, remember the price paid for our freedom.