By custom, tradition, and as a sign of respect, when the National Anthem is played (The Star Spangled Banner) civilians “salute” the flag or if no flag is visible, the source of the music.
It is proper to hold your right hand over your heart when the National Anthem is being played. Men take off their hats and hold it as a “salute” over their hearts. At the ball park tonight, the players will take off their hats, and face the flag while the National Anthem plays.
It’s a sign of respect. Just like saluting the flag during the Pledge, or saluting the flag when it is being raised. Military personnel render a military salute during these occasions.
But of course, respect is a subjective thing, and not easily defined. One could make the case that Sen. Obama lived outside of the United States during his formative years, and simply does not know or understand U.S. flag protocol and etiquette means.
