is it considered respectful for a civilian to salute a soldier?

I was a soldier and I am an independent conservative. If you being a civilian saluted me I would return the salute and silently be appreciative.

I support ALL military and all forms of volunteering and community service. Especially blood and organ donors.

Respect is a two way street and there is nothing that says democrats cannot be in the military.

I once saluted my dad, a Koran War hero, career reservist, and federal law enforcer. He ripped me a new one telling me that until i entered the service, i had no right to salute him (this wasn't the person he normally was, so i took it as him having a bad day and reacting to me busting his chops). That being said, I come from a family of moderate democrats who are all teachers or law enforcers, and many ex-servicemen (myself included). I guess some don't realize that there is a difference between Middle of the road and left wing. This isn't the day or place to get into a political discussion.

I would say just a hand shake and a honest thank you would work just fine. If your a vet I would say a salute would be a nice gesture, but if not it might seem a little a awkward. Either way thank you for being willing to show support.

I appreciate your sentiment, but it really bugs the heck out of me. Unless you are a child (as in, younger than a teenager), do not salute. You'll do it wrong, and just embarrass yourself.

I find it very offensive when someone who is of military age, but not in the military, uses a gesture that is specifically reserved for the military.

If you want to go around saluting people, go to a recruiting station and join.

I come from a long line of Democrats who serve....I'm not sure why Dan C thinks he can look down his nose at Democrats.

It really depends...I had a college student do it at a sister university the other week, he held it after I returned it and it was a bit awkward. Handshake is much better.

NOTE for Fonz: My dad served during Viet Nam and he wasn't drafted either.

Most definitely showing respect.

Along side that, SECDEF a few years ago issued a 'recommendation' that vets render a salute, vice doffing their hat at the raising of the national flag or during the playing of the national anthem. I do it proudly.

(USN retired 1965 - 85)

Generally it is not going to be looked down upon but a salute is only supposed to be given while in uniform. For the members of the military they do not salute while wearing civilian clothes.

Don't expect a salute back unless you are a little kid or obvious vet (wearing a hat or t-shirt) I would much more appreciate a hand shake.

A simple time of day greeting or a mere nod of the head accompanied by a "How are you" would be more than sufficient. Good luck to you

If you are a kid it's cute.

As an adult just be nice and call them sir or address them by their rank if you know it, that would be the most impressive.

I wouldn't call it disrespectful for you to salute, but it would be goofy, odd and I wouldn't recommend it.