When a veteran or active member of the military passes away, each is entitled to a flag for their burial from the United States Government. This flag is then presented at the ceremony to a spouse, child or children, or a close friend that has made a request for it. This ceremony is to ensure that every member of the military, whether past or present, with an honorable discharge, knows how much their country appreciated their service.
If you have a flag of a loved deceased veteran that needs maintenance, contact the ND Flag Pole guy today. We can provide flag management that will keep your flag in great shape.
Who Is Eligible?
Each and every person who served in any branch of the military is eligible for the deceased veterans flag, as long as they did not get dishonorably discharged. The flag will initially be displayed on the coffin, and before it is lowered into the grave, military representatives will present it to the family. If there is no family than whoever requested the flag, typically a close friend, will accept it.
How Do You Get A Flag For A Deceased Veteran?
When you have a loved one that passes away, there are a lot of arrangements to make. This is why the funeral director will typically help arrange things and make sure that you have everything you need.
When your loved one happens to also be a veteran the funeral director will ensure that you know what processes are required to receive your flag. You’ll be required to fill out a form to officially request the flag, specifically: VA Form 27-2008. American flags for deceased veterans are usually kept at your local VA or post office.
How Is The Flag Displayed?
There are very specific guidelines to displaying an American flag on a deceased veterans casket. There are different procedures depending upon whether the casket is closed, half couch open, or full couch open.
Closed Casket
The flag gets draped over the entire casket. The blue star field must be placed at the head and over the left shoulder.
Half Couch
The flag gets folded three times and the blue star field must be on top, again on the side of the left shoulder.
Full Couch
The flag gets folded into the traditional triangle and placed above the left shoulder, in the center part of the head panel.
After “Taps” is played the flag is then folded into the traditional triangle and presented to the family. From there the flag is to be kept in a protective display case. American burial flags are made from cotton and therefore should not be flown because they are especially susceptible to wear and tear.
What Is Said When The Flag Is Presented?
Each branch of the military has a slightly different speech they use when presenting the flag to loved ones. However, the majority of the speech typically stays the same and goes like this:
“On behalf of the President of the United States, (insert military branch, ex. The United States Army), and a grateful Nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one’s honorable and faithful service.”
It is tradition to ensure that the veteran and their family are being thanked by the president, their military branch, and also our nation for their service.
The ND Flag Pole Guy Offers New American Flags And Flag Maintenance And Repair
If you’re in need of a new American flag made in the USA to display at your home or place of business, contact the ND Flag Pole Guy. We specialize in American flags, state flags, and military flags. Show your pride with a new flag from the ND Flag Pole Guy.