Veterans Burial Flag

 

A United States flag is provided, at no cost, to drape the casket or accompany the urn of a deceased veteran who served honorably in the United States Armed Forces.  It is furnished to honor the memory of a veteran's military service to his or her country. VA will furnish a burial flag for memorialization for:

• A veteran who served during wartime

• A veteran who died on active duty after May 27, 1941

• A veteran who served after January 31, 1955

• A peacetime veteran who was discharged or released before June 27, 1950

• Certain persons who served in the organized military forces of the Commonwealth of the Philippines while in service of the U.S. Armed Forces and who died on or after April 25, 1951

• Certain former members of the Selected Reserves

Who Is Eligible to Receive the Burial Flag?

Generally, the flag is given to the next-of-kin, as a keepsake, after its use during the funeral service. When there is no next-of-kin, VA will furnish the flag to a friend making request for it.

How Can You Apply?

The funeral director will help you obtain the flag.  You may apply for the flag by completing VA Form 27-2008, Application for United States Flag for Burial Purposes, and submit form to a funeral director. Flags are obtained from a VA regional office or U.S. Post Office.

Can a Burial Flag Be Replaced?

A flag cannot be replaced if it is lost, destroyed, or stolen.  The law allows us to issue one flag for a veteran's funeral.

How Should the Burial Flag Be Displayed?

The proper way to display the flag depends upon whether the casket is open or closed. VA Form 27-2008 provides the correct method for displaying and folding the flag. The burial flag is not suitable for outside display because of its size and fabric.

 

For More Information Call Toll-Free at 1-800-827-1000