Dwight Eisenhower didn't return salutes, and he was a former 5 star general.  In fact, no former presidents did until Reagan did it in 81.  Manners indicate that the salute requires the wearing of a uniform. I am not an Obama supporter by any means, but this whole thing is silly.  The president is a civilian.  I don't feel that one gesture caught off guard really indicates someones level of respect. Edit:  I do feel that if you are going to do the salute, do it properly, not half assed.
@ForeCPA90:  The president is not required to return a salute, but if you are going to do it, do it properly. I personally hate it when people can not salute properly.  It's laziness. Also, the wearing of a uniform is not a requisite for saluting. For example, veterans are permitted to salute the flag when in civilian attire.
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