The author should have talked to his/her military advisor on this first. I can't change a democratic mind but I can provide the means to educate. This is how a real advisor would react. Army Field Manual 7-21.13, chapter 4-21 states that If you are involved in some duty that would be hampered by saluting, you do not need to salute.  I could go further into detail but I have just provided you with some indication of where to look for military customs and traditions.