The President is an elected civilian put at the head of the Executive Branch of government, making them the Commander in Chief of the US Armed Forces. This does not mean the President wears the uniform so-to-speak, but rather directs those within. Having the unique distinction of being the head of the nations military it is quite accurate to say that they can do whatever they like with regard to military customs, courtesies or traditions. Especially as the title comes without a requisite career, experience, medals, or training from any of the Armed Services within the Department of Defense. Before starting the faddish trend in 1981, a conflicted Ronald Reagan first spoke to General Robert Barrow, then Commandant of the Marine Corps, about whether or not the President should salute the Marines when embarking and debarking Marine Corps One. To which the General told President Reagan that as Commander in Chief, he could salute anyone he wished. It wasnt explicitly stated in Barrows response, but Im fairly certain that it remains a matter of deduction that, as Commander in Chief, the manner in which the salute is rendered is also up to them.
Posted on: Wed, 24 Sep 2014 23:02:27 +0000
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