How to Fold a Funeral Flag

The American flag represents the United States. It is to be respected, handled carefully and honored during any parade, procession, memorial, burial and funeral. At a funeral, the flag is folded after taps in a symbolic tri-cornered shape. The shape symbolizes the cocked hats of soldiers who served under General George Washington and the marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones. This is a solemn procedure that ends with the flag being presented to the appropriate family member.

Things You'll Need

• American flag

Instructions

1. Wait for the proper moment. During the funeral service the flag should be draped over the casket with the blue field covering the head and left shoulder area. The flag is not to be lowered into the grave. After taps is played, the flag is then folded.

2. Stand in an erect position. Two people face each other and hold the flag horizontally between them. The lower striped section is folded, lengthwise, over the blue field. It is then folded lengthwise again. The blue field will be on the outside away from the fold. One person will hold the flag by the blue field while the other person starts at the opposite end and makes a triangular fold. The triangular fold begins at the folded edge and folds towards the open edge. Continue to fold in triangles until complete and only the blue field is showing.

3. Present the flag. Face the family member and hold the flag waist high. The long folded side should be facing the recipient. Lean forward and in a solemn manner present the flag.

4. Protect the flag. The flag may be stored in a framed shadow box that can be purchased at most retail stores. The best time to purchase one is during Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day. You may wish to have a plague made for the box as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Always display the flag with the blue union field up.

• Never let the flag touch the ground.

• Never carry the flag flat or horizontal.

• Always keep the flag clean.

• Always dispose of a flag properly, preferably burning it.

• Always treat the flag with respect.