A military funeral in the United States is a funeral given by the military for a veteran, a soldier who died in battle, or another prominent military figure. When they die, U.S. Presidents often receive military funerals.
Features of a military funeral
- The coffin is draped in a U.S. flag.
- The flag for someone who dies during active duty is provided by that individual's branch of service. Flags for veterans are provided by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.
- The coffin is often transported by way of a horse-drawn caisson, a custom which police departments also sometimes follow. For funerals of former presidents, a riderless horse, symbolizing a fallen leader,usually accompanied the caisson.
- A cannon is fired, a practice which originated in the British Navy. When a cannon was fired, it partially disarmed the ship, therefore firing the cannon represents trust and respect.
- Gun salute for those eligible (i.e., general officers, presidents, other high-ranking officials)
- Three rifle volleys are fired over the gravesite.
- "Taps" is played on the bugle.
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