HONOR AND EXCELLENCE
Military funerals require specific protocol, documentation, and coordination with military installations. Veterans and their families expect precision and honor. Building expertise in military funerals becomes competitive advantage and generates strong referrals from veteran communities.
Military Funeral Eligibility
Eligible: All honorably discharged veterans, active-duty service members, Medal of Honor recipients, and their dependents.
Not eligible: Dishonorable discharge, federal prisoner status, or specific exclusions.
Military Funeral Honors
Flag Ceremony
American flag drapes the casket throughout the funeral. After service, flag is ceremonially folded and presented to the family. This is a powerful, emotional moment. Ensure proper flag handling throughout.
Honor Guard
Military personnel in full dress uniform stand beside the casket. This provides visible recognition of military service.
Rifle Volley
Seven rifles fired three times each (21-gun salute for officers) at graveside. This audible salute honors military service.
Taps
Haunting trumpet solo played after rifle volley. One of the most recognizable military traditions. Can be performed live or recorded.
Documentation and Coordination
Required Military Documentation
- DD Form 214 (Discharge or Separation Documents) - proves honorable discharge
- Military ID or military retirement ID
- VA documents or service records if applicable
Requesting Military Honors
Contact the nearest military installation (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard) to request funeral honors. Provide: deceased's name, service branch, rank, discharge status, and funeral date/location.
Timeline: Request honors at least 2 weeks before funeral (some bases require 3 weeks).
Critical Questions to Ask Military Families
- "Did the veteran have honorable discharge?" (Necessary for honors)
- "What branch of military service?" (Determines which installation provides honors)
- "Do you want a rifle volley and taps?" (Available at graveside)
- "Where should we request honors?" (Help family identify nearest installation)
- "Do you have military documentation/ID?" (Required to request honors)
Coordination With Military Installations
Develop relationships with local military installations' funeral honors programs. Many bases have dedicated teams for this function. Regular contact makes it easier to request and coordinate honors for veteran funerals.
Building Relationships with Veteran Communities
- Join local veteran organizations (American Legion, VFW, DAV)
- Sponsor veteran community events
- Develop expertise in military funeral coordination
- Market services specifically to veteran communities
Common Coordination Issues and Solutions
Issue: No Documentation Available
Solution: Contact VA or military installation to request documentation. This can delay honors but is usually obtainable.
Issue: Dishonorable Discharge
Solution: Military honors are not available, but family may still want to recognize military service in other ways.