The Flag Code is silent as to conduct after the National Anthem has been sung or played. It is perfectly acceptable and common practice to applaud or cheer upon the completion of the playing or singing of the National Anthem.

What is the proper etiquette for the National Anthem?

So what should you do when the national anthem is played? The code states that persons present are expected to stand and face the flag, if there is one. Civilians should stand to attention with right hand over heart, while military personnel in uniform and veterans should salute throughout.

What should you not do while singing the National Anthem?

Choose the right starting note



One of the mistakes many performers make is they start the song too high. The National Anthem covers an octave and a half range, and it requires you to sing a long “ee” sound on its highest note. This can strain any voice.

How should you behave when you sing the National Anthem?





Protocol on respecting the National Anthem



All should stand to attention with their hands placed at their sides while singing the National Anthem. Civilians should take their hats off as a sign of respect.

Is it disrespectful to not put your hand on your heart during National Anthem?

Since 1998, federal law (viz., the United States Code 36 U.S.C. § 301) states that during a rendition of the national anthem, when the flag is displayed, all present including those in uniform should stand at attention; non-military service individuals should face the flag with the right hand over the heart; members of

Is it disrespectful to sing along with the National Anthem?

Sure, you can sing along with gusto (even if you can’t carry a tune), but otherwise keep your lips zipped—and that includes no talking on your cell phone. “Just be respectful while it’s playing,” Whitmore says. “Put your cell phone away. You’re not supposed to eat or drink during the National Anthem.

What happens if you don’t stand for the National Anthem?



NEW! The controversy over the NFL and the National Anthem continues, with players kneeling while the White House fumes. But the question is: Are players – or anyone else not standing for the National Anthem – breaking the law? No, at least according to the U.S. Code.

What should we do when singing the national?

Kelowna Voice Lab



  1. Choose a key that fits YOUR voice.
  2. Focus 100% of your attention on the inner ear melody of the song – shutting out the feedback delay.
  3. Think “up and over” for each note to keep your pitch elevated and prevent sliding into pitch.
  4. Be aware of your tempo.
  5. Add meaning to your words.

What do civilians do during National Anthem?

Retreat and the national anthem are played daily at 5 p.m., even as a civilian or in civilian clothes, you should stop and face the flag or the music if walking and stop your vehicle safely if you are still in your vehicle.

What do you say before the National Anthem?

“Ladies and gentlemen, at this time we ask that you all please rise and direct your attention to the [American/Canadian/etc.] flag, located [give the location*] for the playing of our National Anthem.”

Is it disrespectful for a woman to wear a hat during the National Anthem?

Men are also expected to remove their hats during the playing of the National Anthem. A woman may leave her hat on during the playing of The National Anthem when indoors, unless it is considered unisex like a baseball cap. When wearing such a unisex cap, a woman should follow the same guidelines as for men.

What should you do when not in uniform and hear the National Anthem playing?



In uniform: When the Retreat music concludes, come to attention and render a salute when you hear the first note of the national anthem. Not in uniform: Do not salute if you are not in uniform. Come to attention and place your right hand over your heart.

Why should we not sing the National Anthem at night?

National Anthem can be sung/played at any time, playing it during night doesn’t voilate any rule. But while the song is played every one should stand up and maintain proper decorum. It is not necessary that everyone should sing the song.

Why is it disrespectful to keep your hat on during the National Anthem?

You are suppose to remove your hat during the national anthem as a sign of respect for the flag and those who died defending the country. Active military can keep their hat on if it is part of their military uniform.

What does wearing the black hat mean?

to behave villainously. See full dictionary entry for black hat.

Can retired military salute the flag?



If you’re a veteran, did you know that you can? Federal law authorizes veterans to salute the flag in several situations: The Pledge of Allegiance (Title 4 USC section 4) During hoisting, lowering, or passing of the American flag (Title 4 USC section 9)