The image of the American flag draped over a casket is one of the most powerful and emotional symbols in U.S. history.

For many families, this moment raises an important question: Why is the flag placed on a casket, and what does it truly mean?

This tradition represents honor, sacrifice, and national gratitude. Rooted in centuries of military history, the flag-draped casket is one of the highest funeral honors the United States can bestow. This article explains the history, symbolism, rules, and modern meaning behind this solemn tradition.

The Ancient Origins of the Flag-Draped Casket

The practice of covering the deceased with a symbol of honor dates back long before modern nations existed.

In ancient civilizations:

Fallen warriors were carried on shields or wrapped in banners
Military standards symbolized allegiance and bravery
Covering the body showed the individual died in service to a cause greater than themselves

These early customs laid the foundation for today’s flag-draped casket tradition.

The Flag on a Casket in Early American History

Revolutionary War Influence

During the American Revolution:

Flags symbolized unity and independence
Fallen officers were sometimes wrapped in flags or regimental colors
Burial with a flag represented loyalty to the new nation

While not formally regulated, the symbolism was already deeply meaningful.

The Civil War: When the Tradition Became Widespread

The U.S. Civil War marked a turning point.

Massive casualties required consistent military burial customs
Flags honored soldiers buried far from home
The flag represented national identity and sacrifice

By the end of the Civil War, draping the flag over a casket had become a recognized military honor across the country.

Formal Military Funeral Honors in the 20th Century

The tradition became fully standardized during World War I and World War II.

Military funeral honors were formalized
The flag-draped casket became an official practice
Veterans, not just active-duty members, became eligible

From this point forward, the flag on a casket symbolized service to the nation, regardless of rank or combat role.

What the American Flag on a Casket Represents

The flag is not decorative—it is symbolic.

It represents:

Honor and duty
Sacrifice and service
National gratitude
The ideals of freedom and unity

Each fold, placement, and presentation is performed with precision to reflect respect.

Who Is Eligible for a Flag-Draped Casket?

In the United States, the flag may be placed on the casket of:

Active-duty military members
Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces
National Guard and Reserve members with qualifying service
Certain federal service members

The burial flag is provided at no cost to the family.

How the Flag Is Properly Placed on the Casket

The placement follows strict military protocol:

The union (blue field with stars) is placed at the head and over the left shoulder
The flag must never touch the ground
It is never lowered into the grave

This placement reflects vigilance, respect, and the service member’s readiness to defend the nation.

The Flag Folding Ceremony Explained

At the conclusion of the funeral:

The flag is folded into a triangular shape
Traditionally, the 13 folds represent the original colonies
The triangle resembles the tricorn hats worn during the Revolutionary War

The folded flag is presented to the next of kin as a final token of gratitude from the nation.

Who Receives the Folded Flag?

The folded flag is typically presented to:

The surviving spouse
Eldest child
Parent or closest next of kin

It becomes a permanent family heirloom and symbol of service.

What Happens to the Flag After the Funeral?

After the ceremony:

The flag belongs to the family
It is never reused or returned
Many families preserve it in a flag display case or memorial shadow box

Proper preservation protects the flag from damage and fading.

Can Civilians Have a Flag on a Casket?

While primarily a military honor, flags may also be used for:

Presidents and high-ranking government officials
State funerals
First responders (by departmental tradition)

The U.S. flag must always be treated with dignity and respect.

Common Myths About the Flag on a Casket

Myth: The Flag Is Buried With the Veteran

False. The flag is removed, folded, and presented to the family.

Myth: Only Combat Veterans Receive a Flag

False. Many non-combat veterans qualify.

Myth: The Flag Must Be Returned to the Government

False. The flag becomes family property.

Preserving the Flag as a Memorial

Recommended preservation methods include:

Triangular flag display cases
UV-protected glass
Climate-controlled storage
Memorial shadow boxes with medals and photographs

Preservation ensures the flag remains intact for future generations.

Why This Tradition Still Matters Today

The flag on a casket connects modern service members to centuries of sacrifice. It reminds families—and the nation—that freedom is not free.

As explained by The Department of Awards, military funeral traditions exist not only to honor the fallen, but to preserve history, dignity, and national memory.

Final Thoughts

The American flag draped over a casket is one of the highest honors the United States can bestow. Rooted in ancient tradition and formalized through American history, it represents service, sacrifice, and national gratitude.

Preserved properly, it becomes more than a symbol—it becomes a lasting reminder of a life dedicated to something greater.

Why Is the American Flag Placed on a Casket? History, Meaning & Rules