Draft Dodger Trump Salutes National Anthem as Xi Jinping Visits White House
The 80-year-old president faces scrutiny over military protocol and media access
An 80-year-old President Donald Trump performed a military salute during the playing of "The Star-Spangled Banner" while others at the official welcome ceremony for Chinese President Xi Jinping placed their hands over their hearts at the White House on Thursday morning.
The visual distinction was significant as Trump raised his hand in a greeting while First Lady Melania Trump and members of his Cabinet such as Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stood at attention with their hands over their chests.
According to federal statute 36 U.S. Code § 301, requirements for the national anthem are specific. The code states that individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note and maintain that position until the last note. Furthermore, members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute. All other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, according to the code.
There is historical precedent for the commander-in-chief saluting in civilian attire. Former President Ronald Reagan began the modern tradition of this salute during World War II after joining the Army Reserve in 1937. He was eventually called up during the war. Trump’s history creates a contrasting narrative for observers.
Trump famously avoided being drafted five times during the Vietnam War. He utilized four education deferments and one medical deferment for claimed bone spurs in 1968. While some debate whether the president holds a unique position bridging civilian and military authority, many veterans disagree with the practice of saluting while in civvies.
Observers noted a similar action on Wednesday when the Chinese leader landed at Joint Base Andrews. Trump raised his hand in a salute but visibly recoiled at the screeching noise of B-1 bombers performing a military show over his head. He was seen wincing during the display.
The situation extended to the media presence as Trump’s media ban prevented outlets from witnessing the arrival. Journalists for CNN noted the exclusion. Reporters Kristen Holmes and Betsy Klein were reportedly barred from the event. Holmes called Trump’s post on Truth Social about the "magnificent" event "really astounding."
First reported by The Daily Beast.
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