Honoring Those Who Served is our commitment to recognize the sacrifice and contributions of our Nation’s veterans.
The rendering of Military Funeral Honors is one of the ways to show the Nation’s deep gratitude to those who, in times of war and peace, have faithfully defended our country.
The ceremonial playing of Taps, the folding of the American flag and presenting it to the next of kin are the final demonstrations that a grateful Nation can provide to the veteran’s families.
The tradition of providing Military Funeral Honors, in some form, began in ancient Greece and Rome. The funeral honors protocol of today traces its roots to these ancient ceremonies, as well as to historical American experiences.
The family or a representative of the family must request Military Funeral Honors.
- By law, an honor guard detail for the burial of an eligible veteran shall consist of not less than two members of the Armed Forces.
- One member of the detail should be a representative of the parent Service of the deceased veteran whenever possible.
- The Armed Forces honor detail will, at a minimum, perform a ceremony that includes the playing of Taps, folding and presentation of the American flag to the next of kin.
- Military Funeral Honors are provided by the Indiana Army National Guard in the State of Indiana, under the direction of the Department of Defense, at no cost to the family.