![]() ![]() Code.Īs children we all learned the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, "I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all." Those attending an event at which the Pledge is recited should stand at attention and face the flag with their right hand over their heart. These procedures are so important that they have been codified in Title 36 of the U.S. At events at which the flag is not displayed, those in attendance are required to face the band or loudspeaker playing the anthem and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed. Those in uniform should execute the standard military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain this position until the last note is played. Men who are not in uniform should remove any hats, visors, or headdress of any kind with their right hand and hold it at their left shoulder, in order to ensure that their hand is over their heart. During a performance of the national anthem at which the flag is flown, all present should stand at attention facing the flag with their right hand over their heart. The Star Spangled Banner consists of four verses, but apart from very formal occasions, only the first verse is sung. In 1931, the song was designated as the national anthem by an act of Congress. The song became well-known over the years and, in 1916, President Woodrow Wilson ordered that it be sung at military and naval events. The patriotic lyrics were soon set to the tune of a popular song of the time entitled "To Anacreon in Heaven" and a musical edition was published shortly thereafter. The words that make up the "Star Spangled Banner" were originally penned by Francis Scott Key upon witnessing the British bombardment of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. For such individuals, I offer this refresher course in two patriotic customs: the rendition of the national anthem and the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. While many citizens are aware of the official customs that are required of those attending an event at which the anthem is played, others are not, or have forgotten. We hear and sing the "Star Spangled Banner" at numerous occasions, including sporting, community and scholastic events. ![]() There is no law that says you must stand for the National Anthem, it is simply protocol.With the recent conclusion of the 2008 Summer Olympic Games, we are all reminded that our national anthem serves as a celebration of our accomplishments, a reminder of our forefathers and what it means to be an American. All other ranks and all other persons are to stand to attention. Commissioned Officers of the Armed Forces, Gazetted Officers of the Police Service, Cadet Force Officers and Officers of the Fire Services, Prisons Service, St John Ambulance Brigade, Red Cross Society, Boy Scouts Association and Girl Guides Association, in uniform are to salute. Men in civilian dress should remove their headdress. When the Anthem is being played, all persons should pay respect to it by standing to attention. While it must be played in the original music, the pitch, speed and tone can be changed. ![]() The National Anthem should be accorded the respect due to it when played, and on no occasion should it be treated with scant courtesy. The words of the National Anthem reflect the nature and strength of the people of Trinidad and Tobago and our courage as one nation working towards living in unity despite our diversity. ![]() Castagne composed the words and music of the National Anthem in 1962. ![]()
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