Why do we drape a flag over a casket?

Significance: Flags draped over coffins honor the memory of military members who serve the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It will then be given to the deceased’s next of kin, friend or specified associate, according to the Maine Military Funerals Honor Program.

Can you ever fly a flag that was on the casket of a veteran?

For those VA national cemeteries with an Avenue of Flags, families of Veterans buried in these national cemeteries may donate the burial flags of their loved ones to be flown on patriotic holidays. The law allows us to issue one flag for a Veteran’s funeral. We cannot replace it if it is lost, destroyed, or stolen.

Is it OK to fly a burial flag?

Often these folded flags are placed in triangular frames or shadow boxes for display; however, there is nothing in the U.S. Flag Code or in government regulations prohibiting burial flags from being unfolded and displayed. If any flag is flown regularly, it will fade or wear out.

What do the 13 folds of a flag mean?

symbol of life
This is what the 13 folds mean: The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life. The second fold signifies our belief in eternal life. The third fold is made in honor and tribute of the veteran departing our ranks, and who gave a portion of his or her life for the defense of our country to attain peace.

What size flag is draped over a casket?

5 x 9 ½’
It is the traditional U.S. casket flag size of 5 x 9 ½’ that is presented by the VA to veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and families of deceased veterans and is draped over the casket during Military Burial services.

Can a casket flag be flown?

May a person, other than a veteran, have his or her casket draped with the flag of the United States? Yes. Although this honor is usually reserved for veterans or highly regarded state and national figures, the Flag Code does not prohibit this use.

How is a flag displayed over a casket?

Closed casket: the flag should be draped on the casket so that the union (the blue field) is at the head and over the left shoulder of the deceased. Half couch (open): the flag should be placed in three layers so the blue field will be the top fold next to the open portion of the casket on the deceased’s left.

What does folding the American flag mean?

The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life. The second fold signifies our belief in eternal life. The third fold is made in honor and tribute of the veteran departing our ranks, and who gave a portion of his or her life for the defense of our country to attain peace.