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Dear Thelma: I recently attended an event that included many high-ranking government officials and dignitaries. What interested me were the different ways people positioned their hands during the posting of the colors, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the national anthem. These were people who should know the proper salute, but they did so many different things. What are the proper postures for honoring our nation?

Answer: I have seen the same confusion at official events I have attended, and you are right in saying that these are people who should know the proper protocol for civic functions. Unfortunately, many may not have learned correctly or have forgotten. Perhaps we can help.

I have found the National Flag Foundation to be the best resource for information concerning proper treatment and attention to our flag and have relied on its expertise for the answers to your question.

Before the ceremony begins, all guests should be called into the banquet room and seated so that they are ready to give proper respect to the flag. When the posting of the colors begins, everyone stands and directs their attention to the flag as it approaches its place of honor.

As the flag passes you, place your right hand over your heart; members of the armed forces salute as the flag passes. Once the flag has passed, you may remove your hand but remain at attention. Keep your focus on the flag until the bearers have put it into its holder and completed their salute.

While reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, face the flag and place the right hand over the heart with the first word of the pledge. Hold that salute through the pledge's last word.

If you are not a U.S. citizen or choose not to recite such a pledge, stand as a sign of respect but do not repeat the words or offer the salute.

During the singing or playing of "The Star-Spangled Banner," citizens should stand, face the flag, and salute by placing the right hand over the heart. Hold that position from the start of the national anthem to its final note. You may sing if you wish; however, if you don't choose to sing, you must remain quiet. If a flag is not displayed during the anthem, salute and face the source of the music. Those who are not citizens should stand.

In honoring the spirit of our country, good manners never go out of style.