Which Family Member Gets the Flag at a Military Funeral?
When a service member passes away, their family is left to grieve and make arrangements for their final farewell. One of the most meaningful and symbolic elements of a military funeral is the presentation of the United States flag to the next of kin. But have you ever wondered which family member gets the flag at a military funeral?
The Tradition of the Flag Presentation
The tradition of presenting the American flag to the family of a deceased service member dates back to the Civil War. It is a symbol of respect, gratitude, and condolences from the nation to the family. The flag is typically presented to the family by a representative of the military branch or a dignitary, such as a chaplain or a commander.
Who Gets the Flag?
The United States Department of Defense has established a clear protocol for presenting the flag to the next of kin. The flag is typically presented to the Primary Next of Kin (PNK), which is defined as the:
• Spouse
• Parent
• Child
• Sibling
• Grandparent
• Grandchild
Table: Primary Next of Kin (PNK)
Relationship | Description |
---|---|
Spouse | The service member’s spouse is considered the primary next of kin. |
Parent | The service member’s parent(s) are considered the primary next of kin if the spouse is not available. |
Child | The service member’s child(ren) are considered the primary next of kin if the spouse and parents are not available. |
Sibling | The service member’s sibling(s) are considered the primary next of kin if the spouse, parents, and children are not available. |
Grandparent | The service member’s grandparent(s) are considered the primary next of kin if the spouse, parents, children, and siblings are not available. |
Grandchild | The service member’s grandchild(ren) are considered the primary next of kin if the spouse, parents, children, siblings, and grandparents are not available. |
What If There is No Primary Next of Kin?
If there is no primary next of kin, the flag may be presented to Alternate Next of Kin (ANK), which includes:
• Aunt
• Uncle
• Niece
• Nephew
• First Cousin
Who Can Request the Flag?
In some cases, a family member may request the flag even if they are not the primary next of kin. This is typically done through a written request to the military branch or a representative of the National Cemetery Administration.
Preserving the Tradition
The tradition of presenting the flag to the next of kin is an important part of military funeral protocol. It is a symbol of respect and gratitude from the nation to the family of a fallen service member. Whether you are the primary next of kin or an alternate, receiving the flag is a meaningful way to honor the service and sacrifice of your loved one.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the primary next of kin typically receives the flag at a military funeral. The flag is a symbol of respect, gratitude, and condolences from the nation to the family of a fallen service member. Whether you are the spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, or grandchild, receiving the flag is a meaningful way to honor the service and sacrifice of your loved one.