| The flag is generally presented to
the appropriate family member after Taps is played.
Stand facing the flag recipient and hold the
folded flag waist high, with the straight edge facing the recipient.
Lean toward the flag recipient and solemnly present the flag to the
recipient.
Each service uses slightly different wording for
the presentation:
Army: This flag is presented on
behalf of a grateful nation and the United States Army as a token of
appreciation for your loved one's honorable and faithful service.
Navy: On behalf of the President
of the United States and the Chief of Naval Operations, please
accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved
one's service to this Country and a grateful Navy.
Marine Corp: On behalf of the
President of the United States, the Commandant of the Marine Corps,
and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our
appreciation for your loved one's service to Country and Corps.
Air Force: On behalf of the
President of the United States, the Department of the Air Force, and
a grateful nation, we offer this flag for the faithful and dedicated
service of (service member's rank and name).
Coast Guard: On behalf of the
President of the United States, the Commandant of the Coast Guard,
and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our
appreciation for your loved one's service to Country and the Coast
Guard.
If the next of kin has expressed a religious
preference or belief, add "God bless you and this family, and God
bless the United States of America." |