Parade Etiquette and Ceremonial Courtesy

National Anthem and Taps Observance

The Leavenworth Veterans Day Parade is conducted to honor the service and sacrifice of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces. All participants, volunteers, vehicle operators, and spectators are expected to observe proper respect and decorum during ceremonial observances.

 

During the Playing of the National Anthem

In accordance with 36 U.S.C. § 301 (National Anthem), when the National Anthem is played:

• All participants shall immediately stop walking, talking, and all non-essential activities.

• Individuals not in uniform shall stand at attention facing the United States Flag, or if the flag is not visible, face the music.

• Civilians shall place their right hand over their heart.

• Individuals wearing non-religious headgear should remove their hat with the right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, with the hand positioned over the heart.

• Members of the Armed Forces and veterans may render the military hand salute whether in uniform or not.

• Uniformed military personnel shall render the military salute from the first note until the last note of the National Anthem.

• Vehicles participating in the parade shall stop when safe to do so and remain stationary until the National Anthem has concluded. [law.cornell.edu], [usc-cdn.house.gov]

 

During the Sounding of Taps

Taps is a solemn military bugle call traditionally used to honor fallen service members and is commonly performed during memorial ceremonies and Veterans Day observances.

During the sounding of Taps:

• All participants and spectators shall immediately cease conversation and movement.

• Civilians shall stand at attention with the right hand over the heart.

• Individuals wearing headgear should remove their hat and hold it at the left shoulder with the right hand positioned over the heart.

• Veterans and active-duty military personnel may render the military hand salute.

• Uniformed military personnel shall maintain the salute from the first note until the final note of Taps.

• Participants shall remain silent until the ceremony is complete. [tapsbugler.com]

 

Respect for Veterans and Ceremonial Observances

Participation in the Leavenworth Veterans Day Parade is a privilege and an opportunity to honor those who have served our Nation. All parade entries are expected to maintain a respectful demeanor throughout the parade route and during all ceremonial observances. Failure to follow the instructions of parade officials or to observe proper ceremonial etiquette may result in removal from the event.

 

Official References

1. 36 U.S.C. § 301 - National Anthem (United States Code) - Specifies conduct during the playing of the National Anthem, including standing at attention, removing headgear, placing the right hand over the heart, and rendering military salutes. [law.cornell.edu], [usc-cdn.house.gov]

2. Protocol for Taps published by Taps Bugler, recognized military ceremonial guidance, which mirrors military funeral and memorial service protocol for civilians, veterans, and uniformed personnel during the sounding of Taps. [tapsbugler.com]