Death & Survivor Benefits
Military Funeral Honors
An honor guard of at least two uniformed members, one from the veteran’s branch, who fold and present the flag and play Taps, at the family’s request and at no cost.
Also called: funeral honors, honor guard, Taps, flag folding.
For: Veteran or service member, survivor.
Where it applies
Applies in states and territories.
Under 10 U.S.C. 1491, the Defense Department provides funeral honors for an eligible veteran when the family asks. By law the detail is at least two members of the armed forces, one of whom represents the veteran's branch. The ceremony includes folding and presenting the flag and playing Taps, by a bugler where available.
A veteran who served on active duty or in the Selected Reserve and was not dishonorably discharged qualifies, as does a member who died on active duty. Retirees, Medal of Honor recipients and members who died on active duty can receive fuller honors.
The family asks the funeral director, who arranges the detail with the service branch.
Thresholds
| Gate | Rule |
|---|---|
| Eligible veteran | Active duty or Selected Reserve service with a discharge other than dishonorable. |
Sources
Updated
Last updated .
What changed then:
- First published.
Request an update
Out of date, a broken link, or something else wrong? Say what you found, and an editor checks it against the official source.
Disclaimer
VetTOC is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or the Department of Defense. Information is for reference only and is not an eligibility determination. Verify with VA, the relevant state or territory, or an accredited VSO.