Burial flags are provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs at no
cost. Most veterans are entitled to burial flags. Reservists entitled to
retired pay, but not yet receiving it, are also eligible. Only one burial
flag may be provided per veteran. They are provided as a matter of course
at Arlington National Cemetery and at National, state or post cemeteries.
For private funerals, flags may be obtained from any VA regional office and
most U.S. Post Offices by completing VA Form 2008, Application for United
States Flag for Burial Purposes, and submitting it with a copy of the
veteran's discharge papers at any of those locations.
A United States flag drapes the casket of deceased veterans to honor
the memory of their service to America. This custom began during the
Napoleonic Wars (1796-1815). The flag is placed so that the blue field
with stars is at the head and over the left shoulder of the deceased.
After Taps has been played, the flag is carefully folded into the
symbolic tri-cornered shape.
This custom of special folding is reserved for the United States Flag alone.
The flag is presented to the next of kin at the end of the funeral, usually
by the military chaplain. If there is no next of kin present, the flag may
be presented to the veteran's close friend or associate if requested.
The Marine Corps and the Navy use their own wording for the presentation:
U.S. Marine Corps: "On behalf of the President of the United States, the
Commandant of the Marine Corps, and a grateful nation, please accept this flag
as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one's service to Country and
Corps."
U.S. Navy: "On behalf of the President of the United States and the Chief
of Naval Operations, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation
for your loved one's service to this Country and a grateful Navy."
