The Department of Defense (DOD) is responsible for providing military funeral honors
On January 1, 2000, the Department of Defense began the implementation plan for providing military funeral honors for eligible veterans as enacted in Section 578 of Public Law 106-65 of the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2000.
“Honoring Those Who Served” is the title of the DOD program for providing dignified military funeral honors to veterans who have defended our nation. While military honors are long standing tradition within the Armed Forces, this DOD program is in response to the new law governing funeral honors for eligible veterans.
Upon the family’s request, the law requires that every eligible veteran receive a military funeral honors ceremony to include folding and presenting the United States burial flag and the playing of Taps. The law defines a military funeral honors detail as consisting of two or more uniformed military persons with at least one member of the veteran’s parent service of the Armed Forces. The DOD program calls for funeral home directors to request military funeral honors on behalf of the veteran’s family.
If military honors are desired, the family or their representative must arrange them in advance. Honor Guard, Service Representative, Clergy Services, Flags, and other arrangements are the responsibility of the person/persons handling the funeral arrangements. (These arrangements are coordinated through your Funeral Director). The cemetery staff can assist by providing the telephone numbers and addresses of nearby organizations that may be able to provide military honors.
Marine Honor Guard
Marines folding flag
Service member presenting flag