Simply put,. I am an honorably discharged US Navy veteran. As such I am afforded the honor of rendering the salute during the national anthem.
As per the US Code:
36 U.S. Code § 301 – National anthem
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(a)Designation.—
The composition consisting of the words and music known as the Star-Spangled Banner is the national anthem.
(b)Conduct During Playing.—During a rendition of the national anthem—
(1)when the flag is displayed—
(A)
individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note;