Military Honors
The Department of Defense is responsible for providing military funeral honors.The basic military funeral honors ceremony consists of the folding and presentation of the United States flag to the family of the veteran and the playing of Taps.
The ceremony is performed by a funeral honors detail consisting of at least two members of the Armed Forces. One member should be of the same branch, but in the event one is not available, members of any branch can conduct honors.
There are two standard types of services, based on eligibility:
- Any honorably discharged veteran will receive a two-member detail, with the play of Taps, folding and presenting of the flag; and,
- A nine-member detail is provided for the following veterans: Medal of Honor Recipient, KIA, E-9 or O-7 and above, any retiree or an M-Day soldier who is not serving in a combat situation, or any POW veteran. The detail will provide pallbearers, two, three or six-soldier flag fold, rifle detail and the playing of Taps. Depending on eligibility and available resources, additional elements may include a Color Guard, caisson, and a military flyover.
Local veterans service organizations like Elgin American Legion Post 57 can also assist in rendering honors and providing a 21-gun salute.
Presidential Memorial Certificate
A Presidential Memorial Certificate is an engraved paper certificate, signed by the current President, to honor the memory of the deceased veterans who are eligible for burial in a national cemetery.
The program began in 1962 with President John F. Kennedy, and all subsequent presidents have continued it. We can assist you with applying for a certificate.
Obituaries
Free Pre-Planning Guide
Disclaimer
The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.
© 2024 Symonds-Madison Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved. Funeral Home website by CFS & TA | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Accessibility