Can You Unfold a Military Funeral Flag?
The folded American flag presented to families of deceased military personnel has become a time-honored tradition. It symbolizes the reverence and respect paid to their loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice. Many are curious to know: Can you unfold a military funeral flag?
A History of Military Funeral Flags
The history of the folded American flag dates back to the War of 1812. The flag was first folded during the war as a way to create a smaller version of the flag for smaller ships or as a backup in case the original flag was destroyed. This practice continued throughout history, with various branches of the military folding the flags in different ways.
During World War II, a specific way of folding the flag was established by Robert L. Berry, the Quartermaster General’s Department’s official flag regulations. This became the standardized method for folding the flags, and it has been used ever since.
The Flag-Folding Ritual
The ritual of presenting the folded American flag at military funerals is a solemn and emotional experience. When a member of the US military passes away, a folded flag is presented to their family in a meaningful ceremony.
During the presentation, the chaplain (if present) says the following:
"For your love and loyalty; for the devotion to duty, courage, and sacrifices of yourself and all other United States service men and women… this flag is presented… on behalf of a grateful nation."
Can You Unfold a Military Funeral Flag?
So, can you unfold a military funeral flag? The simple answer is no, you should not unfold the flag without authorization. Military funeral flags are considered sacred symbols of honor, respect, and reverence, and unauthorizing an individual from unfolding it may result in penalties. The National Park Service Code of Federal Regulations (Title 36, Part 7) clearly states that:
"The display of a United States flag, unless it is tattered or worn so badly that it is no longer a fitting emblem, shall be fired upon, allowed to touch anything beneath, or brought nearer to it than shall, in judgment of the responsible authorities be proper for the proper respect and maintenance of this emblem…"
Additionally, any unauthorized un Folding of the flag is seen as disrespect to the person it symbolizes. As such, it is strictly prohibited unless specifically authorized by the unit commander, in writing.
Important Point to Keep in Mind:
| Unauthorized | Authorized |
|---|---|
| Folded or Displayed to the Windward Side of a Mast, Pole or Building | Can be unfurled if properly done by the ceremony officer under the guidelines |
Rules for Proper Disposal and Storage
While you shouldn’t unfold the flag, it’s equally important to dispose and store it with respect and honor. Proper disposal involves either:
• Burn[ing the flag at an appropriate controlled burning device, accompanied by the sounds of military rifle salutes and bugles.
• Solemn and dignified interment in a secure location, which includes an underground vault.
Tips and Best Practices
Here are some key takeaways for handling the folded flag with respect and honor:
- Always hold the flag correctly, from the pole down, never by the cantonal corner
- Avoid holding the flag or flagpole, as it might damage or soil the flag
- Never lay or set down the flag. Always fold it in an orderly, neat, and compact way
- Refrain from touching the colors or allowing them to touch anything beneath
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the allure of unwrapping a military funeral flag might seem appealing, it’s important to recognize the sacred and historical significance of these emblems of honor and respect. Failure to do so may be seen as disrespect and carries severe consequences. Understanding the history and significance of the flag folding ritual can help ensure proper handling and care of this valuable symbol, ensuring it is treated with the upmost dignity and respect.
For those curious to learn more about military flags, guidelines, and handling procedures, it is highly recommended to consult reputable sources such as the Military Flag Regulations (DoDI 1300.7) and local unit or branch protocols for specific regulations and guidance.
