A
United States flag is provided, at no cost, to drape the casket or accompany
the urn of a deceased veteran who served honorably in the U. S. Armed Forces.
It is furnished to honor the memory of a veteran's military service to
his or her country. VA will furnish a burial flag for memorialization for:
Who Is Eligible to Receive the Burial Flag?
Generally,
the flag is given to the next-of-kin, as a keepsake, after its use during the
funeral service. When there is no next-of-kin, VA will furnish the flag to a
friend making request for it. For those VA national cemeteries with an Avenue
of Flags, families of veterans buried in these national cemeteries may donate
the burial flags of their loved ones to be flown on patriotic holidays.
How Can You Apply?
You
may apply for the flag by completing VA Form 27-2008, Application for United
States Flag for Burial Purposes. You may get a flag at any VA regional office
or U.S. Post Office. Generally, the funeral director will help you obtain the
flag.
Can a Burial Flag Be Replaced?
The
law allows us to issue one flag for a veteran's funeral. We cannot replace it
if it is lost, destroyed, or stolen. However, some veterans' organizations or
other community groups may be able to help you get another flag.
How Should the Burial Flag Be Displayed?
The proper way to display the flag depends upon whether the casket is open or closed. VA Form 27-2008 provides the correct method for displaying and folding the flag. The burial flag is not suitable for outside display because of its size and fabric. It is made of cotton and can easily be damaged by weather.
For More Information Call Toll-Free at 1-800-827-1000