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Who didn’t have the courage or ability to serve in our military and for those who did please help us provide a free flag case to the families of fallen soldiers and veterans who proudly served our country!

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The United States holds the service of those who protect our country in very high regard. One of the most symbolic ways we show our appreciation is by incorporating the American flag into the traditions and rituals of military and police funerals. The distinctive stars and stripes are a symbol of patriotism, bravery and history. Such a powerful symbol comes with its own unique traditions and funeral etiquette.

Nicknamed “Old Glory,” it is believed that the first American flag was designed by a New Jersey Congressmen and sewn by the famous Betsy Ross. On June 14, 1777, less than one year after the United States declared independence from Great Britain, the Continental Congress (a forefather of today’s Congress) declared the stars and stripes as the official American flag. Exactly 172 years later, President Harry S. Truman commemorated June 14 as national Flag Day. Up until 1960, Congress changed the size and shape of the official flag to make room for all 50 states.

Not only does each star stand for a state and each stripe stand for one of the 13 original colonies, but the colors are also symbolic. Red symbolizes hardiness and valor, white stands for purity and innocence and blue represents vigilance, perseverance and justice. As Flag Day approaches, learn more about the history behind some of America’s funeral traditions featuring flags.

AMERICAN FLAG ETIQUETTE

A flag should not be lowered into a grave or touch the ground.
A flag should never be used as a covering for a statue or monument.
A flag should never be used in such a way that will allow it to be torn, dirtied or damaged.
A flag should not have anything placed on it, attached to it or marked on it.
A flag should never be used to hold or carry anything.
Any flag that is worn, torn or dirtied should no longer be publicly displayed but privately destroyed.
A draped flag should be held over the casket by the pallbearers and, immediately after the sounding of “Taps,” should be folded in the correct way.

THE FAMILY PRESENTATION

Each service branch of the American military has a different speech when presenting the flag to the deceased’s family. Almost all of them are presented on behalf of the President of the United States and the country. This practice is an important part of the military honors process.