Flag folding
The 13 folds of a military funeral flag
How the burial flag is folded and presented, and the meanings often read.
At the end of a military funeral, two members of the honor detail fold the burial flag 13 times into a triangle with only the blue field of stars showing, then present it to the next of kin. The meanings often read for each fold are a tradition, not something set by federal law.
What do the 13 folds of the flag mean?
This is the version most often printed in funeral programs. The first fold is a symbol of life. The second stands for belief in eternal life. The third honors veterans who gave part of their lives in defense of the country. The fourth represents our weaker nature and the trust placed in God.
The fifth is a tribute to the country. The sixth stands for where our hearts lie. The seventh honors the armed forces. The eighth honors the veteran's mother. The ninth is a tribute to womanhood. The tenth honors the veteran's father.
The eleventh, in the eyes of Hebrew citizens, represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon. The twelfth, in the eyes of Christians, represents an emblem of eternity. The thirteenth leaves the stars on top, a reminder of the national motto, "In God We Trust."
None of this is set by federal law. Families can have the meanings read, printed or left out.
How is the flag folded?
- Two members of the honor detail lift the flag from the casket and hold it level and taut.
- They fold the lower striped half up over the blue field.
- They fold it lengthwise again, keeping the blue field on the outside.
- Starting at the striped end, they fold a corner up into a triangle.
- They keep folding in triangles toward the blue field, pulling each fold tight.
- After the thirteenth fold, only the blue field with its stars shows.
- A member of the detail takes the folded flag to the next of kin and presents it.
What is said when the flag is presented?
The usual words are: "On behalf of the President of the United States, the United States Army, and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one's honorable and faithful service." The detail names the veteran's own branch.
The wording varies a little by branch and by detail leader. You don't need to say anything back.
How do families keep the flag?
Most families keep it folded, in a triangular display case with the blue field showing. VA doesn't supply the case. Funeral homes and many stores sell them.
The flag is presented to the next of kin. Who keeps it after that is up to the family.
What if the flag is worn or damaged?
The Flag Code (4 U.S.C. § 8(k)) says that "the flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning."
VA says a Veterans Service Organization will take a flag in any condition and retire a worn one. VA can't replace a burial flag that is lost, destroyed or stolen.
Where can you get help?
VA benefits line: 800-827-1000, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET, for the burial allowance and other benefits.
National Cemetery Scheduling Office: 800-535-1117, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. ET, to schedule a burial in a VA national cemetery.
Accredited Veterans Service Officers at VFW, American Legion, AMVETS, DAV and county veterans offices help with claims and appeals at no cost.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How many times is the flag folded at a military funeral?
Thirteen. The finished triangle shows only the blue field and stars.
Is the meaning of each fold official?
No. The meanings are a tradition often printed in funeral programs. Federal law doesn't assign a meaning to each fold.
Who receives the flag at a military funeral?
The next of kin. VA can't replace a burial flag that is later lost, destroyed or stolen.
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