Carnival Cruise Line, known as “America’s cruise line,” is dedicated to honoring the service of U.S. and Canadian military members and veterans. One of its most well-known traditions is the Military Appreciation Day gathering, which takes place on every Carnival cruise. During this event, cruise directors host a special ceremony to recognize veterans and military members.

As part of this tribute, all military members in attendance are given a commemorative pin. Additionally, the longest-serving military member on the cruise is awarded a special hero coin. Carnival Cruise Line also offers an exciting incentive for veterans by selecting one military member per month to receive a free cruise.

However, a recent controversy regarding proper national anthem etiquette during the military gathering has raised concerns and sparked debate among passengers, with some questioning whether Carnival’s actions in this regard are respectful to veterans.

The National Anthem Debate

The issue surfaced after a Carnival passenger posted a comment on John Heald’s Facebook page, Carnival’s brand ambassador, expressing disapproval of a cruise director’s behavior during the national anthem at a veterans gathering. According to the passenger, the cruise director did not place their hand over their heart or salute during the anthem, which the individual considered disrespectful to the veterans in attendance.

The passenger’s comment read: “No John, you are wrong. Every cruise director should do it regardless if they are American or not. They should put their hand on their heart or salute when the national anthem of the United States of America is played. Otherwise, it is an act of disrespect to all the veterans there.”

In response, Heald shared the post on his social media page, emphasizing that the cruise director in question was American and explaining the passenger’s concerns. Heald also acknowledged the passionate nature of the comment and explained that the cruise director had not followed the etiquette of placing their hand over their heart or saluting during the playing of the anthem.

Cruise Director’s Efforts and the Passenger Response

Heald then defended Carnival’s cruise directors, explaining that each director puts their heart and soul into the Military Appreciation Day event. He emphasized that they understand how personal and significant this ceremony is to many of the guests onboard. Furthermore, Heald encouraged passengers to share their thoughts on national anthem etiquette.

Heald also asked for feedback from passengers so he could communicate their opinions to the cruise directors, who were in a conference at the time. “I would like your thoughts on this, please, do you agree, do you disagree, let me know so that I can send your thoughts to the cruise directors,” Heald wrote. He concluded his message by thanking all those who have served in the military.

Understanding the National Anthem Code

The U.S. Code of Law regarding national anthem etiquette does provide specific guidelines for how people should behave when the anthem is played. According to the code, military members and veterans are expected to salute the flag, while all other people present should stand at attention with their right hand over their heart.

Despite this legal framework, the debate surrounding whether or not non-American individuals, or even non-veterans, should adhere to the same practices, has been a topic of discussion. While some people argue that it’s disrespectful to not follow the etiquette of placing one’s hand on the heart or saluting, others disagree and point out that no such expectation should be placed on non-American citizens or non-military personnel.

Cruise Passengers Share Their Opinions

Carnival passengers offered a variety of opinions on the matter, with many expressing that it should not be compulsory for non-American guests to perform these gestures during the anthem. Several passengers, including veterans themselves, stated that not putting a hand over the heart was not a disrespectful act. One veteran passenger wrote, “How ridiculous. No one should feel compelled to put their hand over their heart, and it’s NOT disrespectful to veterans.”

Others clarified that saluting should only be expected from veterans or those in uniform. A number of commenters argued that, at the very least, all attendees should stand as a sign of respect when any national anthem is played, regardless of the country.

Several comments noted the differing cultural perspectives of international guests, with many non-American passengers asserting that they should not be expected to show the same level of respect as American citizens. “Unless they are veterans of the US military or wearing a uniform, they should NOT salute at the Anthem,” commented one passenger.

Impact on Carnival and Broader Travel Etiquette

This discussion highlights a larger issue for the travel and tourism industry. While many passengers are understanding and supportive of Carnival’s efforts to honor veterans, the matter of national anthem etiquette raises questions about how to appropriately address the diverse range of passengers onboard. Carnival and other cruise lines that cater to a global audience may need to consider balancing respect for U.S. traditions with the expectations of international travelers.

This issue may have broader implications for travel etiquette in general, as international travelers are increasingly interacting with cultural practices that may differ from their own. The challenge for travel companies lies in ensuring they respect the traditions of their host countries while also accommodating the diverse cultures and sensibilities of their guests.

As debates about national anthem etiquette and the ways in which guests should participate in ceremonies like Carnival’s Military Appreciation Day continue, the cruise industry may need to find ways to educate passengers on the importance of these events, while also respecting the cultural diversity present on board.

The post What Are the Expectations of Patriotism on Carnival Cruise Line? The Debate Over National Anthem Etiquette During Military Appreciation Day appeared first on Travel And Tour World.