Drum Major John Coleman offered

a quick nod, a fleeting wave and what looked like a wink

-- all while keeping stride -- as he marched the Cleveland Firefighter's Memorial Pipes & Drums past President Barack Obama last week.

Some might call it a heartwarming moment of patriotism during the inaugural parade.

The band's leader calls it a violation of the rules, captured by CNN. Coleman has been suspended as drum major for six months.

"We had gone over and over time and again with everyone in the band that this was a military parade. Protocol and proper decorum had to be followed at all times," said bandleader Pipe Major Mike Engle. "Unfortunately, John chose to ignore that."

Coleman said he didn't do anything grossly demonstrative: "I looked over, and he smiled and waved. I was just acknowledging the president, who was acknowledging our band."

Engle, who said other pipe bands complained about Coleman's gesture, said even sneaking a glimpse was out of bounds.

"He has to abide by the rules," Engle said. "It had to be done."