I don't see why it should be illeagal for a non vet or serviceman to salute. it's about honour and respect....
As a Soldier, im glad they changed. the sad thing to me is that so few people, including servicemen, even know what the reg was and where it was outlined. Most of our Soldiers dont even know the bugle calls today. Go to an Air Force base today and watch airmen refusing to pay courtesies to the flag when Retreat and To The Colors are played at 1700 is sad. Want to see something reaalysad? Watch film of ballgames from the 40's and 50's and watch every American stand and REMOVE their headgear(hats) when the anthem is played and the colors are posted or as the colors just pass in review. Today, half of them wont even remove their hats... Oh well, there I go again....
Ugh. I remember 10 years ago on an USAF base ... only we Sailors would stop and salute at Colors / Retreat ... and the USAF Airmen would run into buildings.
Part of my experience was that as squids on an airbase, we were in the minority. Maybe there were just more airmen to see ditching colors. No offense intended, bro.
Go to an Air Force base today and watch airmen refusing to pay courtesies to the flag when Retreat and To The Colors are played at 1700 is sad.