again.
Just because something is traditional, it doesn't mean it is a bad thing.
It is and has been a long standing societal practice to remove one's headwear during the anthem as a general sign of respect.
Have you seen what lengths Japan went to over the way one of their atheletes disrespected their uniform? Imagine if he had done something during the raising of their flag?
http://www.japantoday.com/category/s...ver-dress-code