What does a folded flag mean in the military?

Here is what each fold of the flag means: The first fold symbolizes life. The second fold represents a belief in eternal life. The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans who gave their lives in defense of the country in order to help attain peace throughout the world.

Why are military flags folded in a triangle?

The flag gets folded into a triangle because it is actually meant to resemble a tri-cornered hat, like the ones worn by George Washington and other soldiers who served in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.

What do the 13 folds in the military flag mean?

However, some sources attribute it to the Gold Star Mothers of America while others to an Air Force chaplain stationed at the United States Air Force Academy. Some sources also indicate that the 13 folds are a nod to the original first 13 colonies. The flag folding ceremony is provided as a patriotic service.

Who gets the folded flag at a military funeral?

Who is presented with the military burial flag? At the funeral, the flag is presented to the deceased’s next of kin. The next of kin is the person who is most closely related to the veteran. After receiving the flag, it is tradition among the family members to preserve for display in the house, usually in a frame.

Is it disrespectful to unfold a flag?

The official flag code does not make mention of the issue; some hold that once a flag is folded it should remain folded, while others have concluded that it is a noble and patriotic way to honor the life of the military service member.

Can you fly a military funeral flag?

Again, while the flag code does not mention the usage of funeral flags, it does not expressly forbid the unfolding and flying of the flag after the funeral service.

Can you have a military funeral if you are cremated?

Funeral and Memorial Services for Veterans Veterans can receive cremation and burial benefits if eligible. According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs, a veteran’s family may bury or inter their loved one’s ashes at any National Cemetery that accepts cremains.