National Anthem

The musical composition familiarly known as the Star-Spangled Banner is designated as the national air of the United States of America. When played all officers and enlisted men present and not in formation are required to stand at attention, facing the music, except when the flag is being lowered at sunset, on which occasion they are required to face toward the flag. If in uniform they shall render the prescribed salute at the first note of the anthem, retaining the position of salute until the last note of the anthem. If not in uniform and covered, they are required to stand and uncover at the first note of the anthem, holding the headdress opposite the left shoulder until the last note is played, except in inclement weather when the headdress may be held slightly raised. The custom of rising and remaining standing and uncovered while the Star-Spangled Banner is being played has grown in favor among civilians. The Star-Spangled Banner should be played through without repetition of any part not required to be repeated to make it complete. It should not be played as part of a medley nor for dance music, nor at any point in a program or performance except at the beginning or the end. It is the practice in the Army to play the Star-Spangled Banner at the end of a musical program.