I was thinking the same thing, Tamar. When I was in school (back when dinosaurs ruled the earth) is was "Hand over Heart" for the Pledge and stand respectfully for the Anthem, facing the flag (if present). Singing was optional and there were many who shouldn't have excercized that option (grin).


>>http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/36/301.html
>>
>
>That's very interesting. Wonder when it was passed. It certainly isn't what I learned in school.
>
>Update: So I was curious about this and went to check it out. I find that the section of the US Code containing this is entitled "Patriotic Customs," which suggests to me that it's now law, but custom.
>
>Other items in that same section include not using the flag on a costume or athletic uniform, or as apparel, bedding or drapery. Seems clear these aren't laws.
>
>On the issue of Obama and this stuff, Snopes seems to have good information: http://www.snopes.com/politics/obama/anthem.asp
>
>Tamar
>
>>
>>>You know, this stuff is really bs. First, the custom (not the law) is hand over heart for the Pledge of Allegiance, not the National Anthem.
>>>
>>>Second, who cares? Do you consider me un-American because I don't say "under God" when I do say the Pledge.
>>>
>>>I actually think all this flag worship is nonsense. I wouldn't say the Pledge at all, if it didn't include the words "and to the Republic for which it stands." That's something I believe in. The flag is a piece of cloth and the Star-Spangled Banner is a lousy national anthem.
>>>
>>>Tamar