21-Gun Salutes

I understood the rationale for soldiers firing guns
To signify an honor, but the number 21
Defied my intuition, so I looked it up. You see,
The British royal navy in the 16th century
Had warships signal peacefulness with shots the other way
To empty out their cannons. “We can’t hit you now,” they’d say.
The ships used seven cannons, but the forts upon the shore
Had lots of space for powder; they replied with 14 more.
Today the number varies, based in part upon the nation
As well as the saluted person’s proper rank or station.
America reserves the 21 for heads of state.
But if you’re given any, I would say the honor’s great.