Showing proper respect for U.S. flag

It has been my pleasure to lead the Gonzales Come and Take It parade with the Boy Scouts several times over the last several years.  We lead the parade, with pride, carrying both the American and Texas flags.  Every time we have done this, something has bothered me, and I believe it is time to remind people about proper protocol when the American Flag passes by or is being displayed.
Growing up we always knew when the American flag was coming in a parade, because you could see everyone for the block ahead standing at attention and putting their hand over their heart till the flag had passed.  Today, you see less than half of the people stand, and even fewer cover their heart.
Congress set up rules for display and proper protocol for the use of the flag.  In it states that:
During the ceremony of hoisting or lowering the flag or when the flag is passing in a parade or in review‚ persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, or if applicable, remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart.
I know many people here have never heard this before, but I think it is time for everyone to know proper respect for our flag.  As a veteran, the flag is something dear to my heart.  I teach scouts every year proper care and use of the American flag.  The Boy Scouts in Troop 262 do dozens of flag ceremonies throughout Gonzales over a years time.  It is a sense of pride knowing these young men will know the proper care and respect for the flag.
So the next time the flag is being marched by, please stand up, cross your heart, and show the proper respect for the flag.