---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: I think there ought to be a regulation…"
description: "\"“I think there ought to be a regulation that the president could return a salute inasmuch as he is commander in chief and civilian clothes are his unif..."
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f42/ronald-reagan-119_commander-in-chief_i-think-there-ought-to-be-a-regulation-t_930547.jpg"
---

#  I think there ought to be a regulation that the president…

![“I think there ought to be a regulation that the president could return a salute inasmuch as he is commander in chief and civilian clothes are his uniform.” “Well, if you did return a salute,” the general said, “I don’t think anyone would say anything to you about it.” The next time I got a salute…” quote by Ronald Reagan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f42/ronald-reagan-119_commander-in-chief_i-think-there-ought-to-be-a-regulation-t_930547.jpg)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f42/ronald-reagan-119_commander-in-chief_i-think-there-ought-to-be-a-regulation-t_930547.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/f42/ronald-reagan-119_commander-in-chief_i-think-there-ought-to-be-a-regulation-t_930547.jpg)

> ““I think there ought to be a regulation that the president could return a salute inasmuch as he is commander in chief and civilian clothes are his uniform.” “Well, if you did return a salute,” the general said, “I don’t think anyone would say anything to you about it.” The next time I got a salute, I saluted back. A big grin came over the marine’s face, and down came his hand. From then on, I always returned salutes. When George Bush followed me into the White House, I encouraged him to keep up the tradition.””

[Ronald Reagan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/ronald-reagan/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The speaker suggests that even a small gesture of respect, like returning a salute, can reinforce authority and mutual respect, encouraging others to follow suit.

**In simple terms:** Returning a salute shows respect and builds tradition.

Key Takeaway

Respect authority by returning gestures of respect.

Themes

respect military etiquette leadership tradition

Mood

reflective respectful

Type

advice observational

When to use this quote

- military ceremonies
- political meetings
- daily interactions
- team settings

Key Concepts

social norms authority dynamics reciprocity

Questions to Reflect On

- Does a simple gesture truly influence leadership perception?
- When should respect be shown without expectation of reciprocity?

A Different Perspective

Some may view it as superficial or forced compliance.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★   No ratings yet

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