Having military honors at a veteran’s funeral requires some additional planning.

If you’ve ever attended a military funeral, you know that there are a few extra steps to the ceremony. These honors include a flag folding and presentation to next of kin, playing of “Taps,” a rifle detail, and graveside salute by uniformed service members. As a veteran, you’re entitled to these same military honors if you wish for them to be included at your funeral.

This ceremony often takes place at a graveside service or committal, but military honors can be rendered at a funeral even if a burial will not take place. In these instances, the military honor guard will perform the rites with the chaplain and flag folding team inside the church or chapel and the personnel firing rifles and playing “Taps” just outside the building.



Military honors are arranged by the funeral director, but preparing in advance will make things go more smoothly for your loved ones when the time comes.

To qualify for military funeral honors, you must be in active service or have been honorably discharged. The funeral director will need to submit a photocopy of the discharge paperwork, or Form DD214, to request an honor guard for the funeral.

If the papers cannot be found, the records may need to be ordered from the National Personnel Records Center. This can lead to delays and, in some cases, prevent a family from placing the request in time for the burial or cremation.

Providing copies of these records to the funeral director in advance can prevent your loved ones from this potential stress and frustration.

 When preplanning, another benefit to consider is the grave marker or monument. The government will provide either a bronze or granite marker free of charge. This marker cannot be ordered in advance, but you can view the available options online and discuss your preferences with your family. In addition to choosing the type of marker or monument, you can also specify what inscription you would prefer. You may also want to check with the cemetery you plan to use to see whether they have specific requirements to follow.

Farris Funeral Service offers a service fee discount and a free wooden flag case to the veteran’s family. Those planning in advance may want to discuss with our funeral directors the specific types of services available with a veteran’s discount. 

Planning your funeral is a gift for your loved ones. It allows you to relieve a burden from their shoulders so that they can focus on their grief and healing. Thinking today about your final wishes can save time and frustration for loved ones who will already be struggling with difficult emotions when you pass on.

If you’re ready to start preplanning, reach out to Farris Funeral Service today at 276-623-2700. We’re always available to answer your questions, explain your options, and make arrangements that will serve your needs.