How to Get a Burial Flag for a Veteran
A United States burial flag honors a veteran's service. It is draped over the casket, or placed with the urn, and then folded and presented to the family. Here is how to get one and how to look after it.
Who is eligible?
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the next of kin or a close friend of a veteran can usually get a burial flag if the veteran:
- served during wartime, or
- died on active duty after May 27, 1941, or
- served after January 31, 1955, or
- served in peacetime and left before June 27, 1950, after at least one enlistment or because of a service-connected disability.
Some members of the Selected Reserve and certain Philippine forces also qualify. The VA asks families in those cases to call 800-827-1000.
How to apply
- Fill out VA Form 27-2008, the Application for United States Flag for Burial Purposes.
- Take it to the funeral director, a VA regional office, or a U.S. post office. Call the post office first to make sure it has burial flags.
In most cases the funeral home handles this for you. Ask them at your first meeting.
Can a burial flag be replaced?
The VA states that it cannot replace a burial flag that is lost, stolen or destroyed. Some veterans organizations may be able to help. That is why most families put the folded flag into a display case soon after the service.
Protecting the flag after the service
A cotton burial flag fades and collects dust when it sits on a shelf. A closed case with a glass front protects it and keeps the triangle fold neat. Look for a case made for the standard 5′ × 9.5′ burial flag, solid wood, and real glass.
Our engraved flag display case holds the standard burial flag and can be engraved with the veteran's name, rank and service dates. Need it for a service this week? Order by 2 PM EST on a business day and it ships the same day, or call or text (201) 449-2077.
Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, "Burial flags" (va.gov).
