The solemn ceremony of the presentation of the Medal of Honor should not end with a handshake or a hug from the President. Although not required by law or military regulation, members of the uniformed services are encouraged to render salutes to recipients of the Medal of Honor as a matter of respect and courtesy regardless of rank or status and, if the recipients are wearing the medal, whether or not they are in uniform. This is one of the few instances where a living member of the military will receive salutes from members of a higher rank. A hand salute rendered by the President and returned by the recipient should mark the end of the presentation to that individual. The medal itself and the first salute from the Commander-in-Chief would highlight this momentous occasion.
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