The 21 Gun Salute
Monday August 25, 2008
The practice of firing gun salutes has existed for centuries. Early warriors demonstrated their peaceful intentions by placing their weapons in a position that rendered them ineffective. The gun salute system of the United States has changed considerably over the years.
Comments
The salute, be it in the form of a hand salute or 21-bullet launcher, is, historically, a “I come in peace” message. In displaying the former, one is showing the warrior that one’s hand is free of potentially offensive weaponry and, therefore, has no intention of inflicting harm. In exercising the later, the musket, weapon of the era, has been rendered, momentarily at least, combat ineffective; therefore, the warrior has no offensive intent. Carrying the historical concept of the salute a step further, one will notice, prior to and following kata, the display of a martial art, the opponents will bow, first to their teacher, then to each other. The lowering of the eyes, and the momentary loss of concentration on the opponent is a direct indication of one’s trust/wariness of the honored adversary.
As a young Soldier, I would hear comments from my peers, such as “…do I HAVE to salute…”. Rendering a salute is both a privilege and a time-honored tradition among fellow warriors. Because Military courtesy requires that the junior Soldier render a salute to anyone with shiny metal on their collar, many may view the salute with disdain…it’s an honor!
The Sarge