What does the salute to the Union consist of?

• A. 1 gun for each state
• B. 21 guns
• C. A single ceremonial flag-raising
• D. 50 guns

Answer: (B)

In ceremonial honors, the number of guns signals the level of praise. For the United States, the national salute—the highest ceremonial gesture used for the nation, the flag, or the president—is 21 guns, fired in a sequence of three bursts of seven. This 21-gun pattern is the established standard, distinguishing it from other options like a single flag-raising or counts such as 1 or 50. So the salute to the Union consists of 21 guns.