Donald Trump has reignited a protocol debate after saluting during the national anthem at the NBA Finals game. The president performed the military-style gesture as some fans booed him at MSG during the Knicks game.
Trump attended Game 3 between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs, sitting with his granddaughter Kai and several former cabinet members. When the anthem began, those around him placed their right hands over their hearts. Trump initially remained still but then raised his hand in a salute, before adding a fist pump. The crowd’s audible booing accompanied a gesture that has become something of a trademark for him.
Why Donald Trump’s salute is drawing renewed attention
Donald Trump’s salute runs counter to the guidance set out in 36 U.S. Code 301, the federal statute governing conduct during the national anthem. The regulation states that “individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note.” It extends the privilege to “members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform.”
For everyone else, the instruction is different. “All other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, and men not in uniform, if applicable, should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart.” The code adds that when no flag is displayed, those present should act in the same manner.
Trump has never served in the military. During the Vietnam War, he received a draft deferment, and allegations have long followed him that he cited bone spurs to avoid service. Despite this, his decision to salute rather than place his hand over his heart has been repeated at numerous other major events.
The president did so at an Army-Navy football game, during his inauguration proceedings in January last year. Even at a church service inside Washington National Cathedral. On each occasion, those around him followed the civilian custom while the commander-in-chief chose a military one.
