Who qualifies for a 21-gun salute?
The United States performs a 21-gun salute as a show of national respect for political and military special events. The salute marks the ceremonial entrance and exit of the president of the United States, vice president, former presidents and president-elects. It also serves to honor foreign heads of state and royal families. The salute is also played at the funeral for the president of the United States, former president, president-elect or any veteran of the United States military.Source:U.S. Army Center of Military History: Origin of 21-gun SaluteArlington National Cemetery: Military Funeral CustomsU.S.