A civilian saluting the US flag.?

Hello, my name is Brad and I'm not in the military..yet. Every time I go to events and what not, I salute the flag. I get very emotional when I do this. I think of our forefathers and the people serving today and what they give, all the time. I would gladly give my life for my country. I'm in a Militia, and WOULD die for my people and country if I saw an opportunity to do something. I know people say it is improper to do this, as I'm not active duty armed forces. But I still do it regardless. I ask myself, would my forefathers, our forefathers, look down upon me doing this. I think not. I do it, and show my respect in that way. I'm just curious as to what the thoughts of my fellow Americans are?