When those who have served in our military pass away, it is only fitting that they are given military honors. While many people are familiar with how this may work during a funeral, less people understand how this is done with a cremation. As providers of cremation services in Willits, CA. we are here today to answer some of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to military honors with cremation. 

What Are Military Honors? 

If you are not familiar with military honors, it is what is given for our members of the armed forces. It is a guaranteed act under the National Defense Act. While the exact honors given does depend on things like how long the deceased was in the military, what branch they served in, and if they were active or retired, there are certain minimum honors that are guaranteed for everyone who served. These honors include the folding of the flag, the presentation of the flag to the family and the playing of taps. 

The Committal Shelter 

When a loved one has been cremated, they can still receive military honors as they would if they had been buried in a casket. This works by the urn being taken to cemetery and placed in the committal shelter. 

The committal shelter is a special designated open air covered pavilion that is set up in the cemetery. This shelter provides the family privacy and is where the honors will take place. The urn is placed on the platform in the shelter and the ceremony begins. 

The Flag 

With burials, the flag is draped over the casket and then taken, folded, and presented to the family. With a cremation, the flag is not draped over the urn, rather it is already folded and the once the urn has been placed on the platform in the committal shelter, the folded flag will be set leaning against the urn. 

The Service 

Once the urn and flag have been positioned on the platform, a short service will take place. This service typically includes: 

• Introduction given by a clergy member 
  
• A poem read 
  
• Song sung or played 
  
• Sharing of a story 
  
• Eulogy delivered 

Playing of Taps 

After the service has ended, the playing of Taps will begin. This may be preformed by a bugler or, if one is not available, it will be a recording being played. During this performance, the honor guard will salute the deceased as a sign of respect and honor. 

Flag Ceremony 

Once Taps has been played, the honor guards will take the flag, and unfold it. They will keep it unfolded for a few minutes. Then, they will fold it back up and deliver it to the next of kin. When the guard presents the flag to the relative, they will say: 

“As a representative of the United States [military branch], it is my high privilege to present you this flag. Let it be a symbol of the grateful appreciation this nation feels for the distinguished service rendered to our country and our flag by your loved one.” 

How to Request Military Honors 

When making arrangements for your loved one’s cremation services in Willits, CA., let your cremation director know that they were in the military. Your director will know what forms need to be completed and can help with submitting everything to the proper places.