What to Wear to a Military Funeral: A Guide to Show Respect and Devotion
Attending a military funeral is a sobering and emotional experience that requires a sense of solemnity and respect. Choosing the right attire is essential to show your respect for the fallen service member and their family. In this article, we will delve into the guidelines and rules for what to wear to a military funeral, as well as provide some dos and don’ts for a dignified and meaningful experience.
What Not to Wear
Before diving into what to wear, it’s essential to mention what not to wear:
- Casual, ripped, or torn clothes: Avoid wearing casual attire, ripped jeans, torn shirts, or anything that may appear sloppy or unsightly.
- Racy or revealing clothing: Refrain from wearing clothing that is too revealing, including low-cut tops, shorts, or tight-fitting clothing.
- Distracting or flashy jewelry: Avoid drawing attention to yourself with gaudy or flashy jewelry, as the focus should be on the fallen service member and their family, not on your personal appearance.
Recommended Attire
Here are some general guidelines for what to wear to a military funeral:
- Men:
- Dark business attire: Wear a suit and tie, or dress pants and a button-down shirt.
- Dress shoes: Wearing dress shoes is mandatory, as they add to the overall sense of formalness.
- No sneakers or sandals: Avoid wearing sneakers, flip-flops, or other casual footwear.
- Women:
- Formal dresses: Wear a formal dress that covers your shoulders and knee-length or longer.
- Blouses: Opt for a blouse or a blouse with a neckline that is not too revealing.
- Stockings and heels: While not mandatory, wearing stockings and heels can add a touch of elegance to your outfit.
Additional Etiquette Tips
Keep in mind the following additional etiquette tips:
- Remove hats: Remove any hats or headgear inside the funeral home or chaplain’s office.
- Stand up for the flag: When the US flag is presented, it’s customary to stand up and remain standing until it is removed.
- Show respect: Avoid distracting behavior, such as snapping photos or making loud noise, and maintain a level of respect throughout the funeral service.
Table Manners
Here are some table manners to keep in mind:
| Table Behavior | Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Allow the most important person (usually the mother or father of the service member) to sit on the right side of the head table. | Push in your chair when leaving the table. |
| Table Talk | Keep conversations respectful and respectful of the fallen service member and their family. Avoid loud or boisterous conversations. | Avoid mentioning politics or controversial topics. |
| Eating | Wait for others to start eating before consuming your food. | Put your napkin on the table when you’re done eating. |
Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips to make your experience at the funeral more comfortable:
- Arrive early: Get to the funeral home at least 30 minutes early to account for parking, security checks, and taking your seat.
- Bring a program: Download or print a program schedule to help you follow along with the service.
- Stay hydrated: It’s easy to get lost in the emotions of a funeral, so make sure to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.
Conclusion
Attending a military funeral is a grave and solemn occasion that deserves respect and dignity. By following these guidelines and dos and don’ts, you can ensure that your attire and behavior show reverence for the fallen service member and their family. Remember to prioritize respect, tact, and solemnity as you honor the memory of the service member and comfort their loved ones. Rest in peace, Heroes.
