I have to agree with Jeff but I don't salute defence force personnel as I am not in the forces myself.  I consider a salute to be something for those who serve (I grew up as an army brat so I understand the point of view of those who join who are 'saluted' (and usually incorrectly) by civilians).

All I can do is just show them the respect they deserve for doing their part to keep the country free.

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It's funny how Steve mentions that the USA may not have the perfect people or the perfect leaders but it seems that everyone I know who goes there comes back with a very positive feeling about the place.

Growing up where I did, there was a fair bit of anti-American sentiment and that sticks in a lot of people I know even though they've never been there or met many of the people.  The funny thing is that the more Americans I meet, the higher my opinion becomes of the people in general

Enjoy your Fourth of July celebrations because what you have in the USA is something truly great in the constitution and the rights you have.  It's just a shame that it seems to me that so many of your own people will slag off at their own country for all sorts of stupid and pathetic "reasons".

* Donations gratefully accepted to go towards a plane ticket so that I may see the place first-hand....