United states citizens: when do we put our hand over our heart ?

Question

i was taught that for the pledge of allegiance to the flag, our hand is over our heart, and for the national anthem we stand and take off our hats out of respect.

when did this change?

Answer 1

Yes.  Pledge of Allegiance is when you put your hand over your heart.  You are only supposed to stand at respectful attention when the national anthem is played.

Look no further than the McCain smear campaign for your answer to where this all originated.

Answer 2

I was taught to do so during the national anthem, pledge of allegiance and whenever the flag passes by.

Answer 3

US Code, Title 36, Chapter 301:

(b) Conduct During Playing.— During a rendition of the national anthem—

(1) when the flag is displayed—

(A) all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart;

(B) men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold the headdress at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart; and

(C) individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note; and

(2) when the flag is not displayed, all present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed.

Edit... no, this is the U.S. Code, and applies to both military personnel and civilians.

Answer 4

You remembered being taught.  I think those who say different were misled by Obama critics.

The hand over the heart is an ancient gesture of allegiance.  I know Roman soldiers placed their fists over their hearts as a pledge of allegiance.  The pledge to the Flag merits such a gesture.  

The Anthem requires uncovering the head (except military caps), standing at attention while facing in the direction of the U.S. Flag, and singing the words of the Anthem.

Books of etiquette should confirm these actions along with your military handbook.

Military personnel salute,  at attention,  facing the flag during the national anthem. These gestures answer the Star Spangled Banner's question.  Does that banner still "wave oe'r the land of the free and the home of the brave?"