How to Fold a Burial Flag

The tradition of draping a flag over the casket of a deceased Veteran dates back to the Napoleonic Wars. Today, a United States flag is placed over the casket or displayed beside the urn during the service as a symbol of honor, respect, and gratitude for the Veteran's service. The flag is later folded and presented to the next of kin as part of military funeral honors, which may also include a rifle salute and the playing of “Taps.”

Although it’s called a “burial flag,” the flag is not buried with the Veteran. In fact, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) specifies that the flag should never be lowered into the grave or allowed to touch the ground. It remains a ceremonial tribute that the family may keep in remembrance. The VA provides one burial flag at no cost to the family of an honorably discharged Veteran, including eligible reservists.

How to Properly Fold a U.S. Burial Flag

Folding the U.S. burial flag is a time-honored tradition performed with great care and precision. The result is a distinctive triangle with only the blue field of stars visible, symbolizing the original colonies and the ideals for which the Veteran served.

A funeral director can arrange for an honor guard to fold and present the burial flag to the next of kin. However, if you prefer not to have an honor guard or need to fold or refold the flag for a display case, here’s how. 

Note: You will need two people to properly fold the flag into the traditional triangle shape. Burial flags measure 5 x 9.5 feet, while standard flags are typically 3 x 5 feet.

Step-by-Step Guide to Folding a Burial Flag

1. Hold the Flag Taut: Fully extend the flag with one person holding each end. Never allow the flag to touch the ground.
2. First Lengthwise Fold: Fold the flag in half lengthwise, keeping the blue field of stars on the outside and facing upward.
3. Second Lengthwise Fold: Fold it in half lengthwise again, still ensuring the stars remain visible on the outside.
4. Begin Triangular Folds: Starting at the striped end, fold the bottom corner up to form a triangle. Continue folding the triangle over and over toward the stars.
5. Continue Folding: Keep folding tightly and precisely, maintaining the triangular shape and alignment.
6. Tuck and Finish: Once you reach the end, tuck any remaining material into the final fold. The finished flag should be a neat triangle showing only the blue field and white stars.

Get Your Free Flag Folding Guide

Folding a flag requires patience and practice. Whether you’re preparing for a memorial service or preserving a loved one’s flag, download our free guide with simple, illustrated instructions. Click here to download.

How to Display the Flag in Your Home 

Following the passing of a Veteran, many families wish to continue honoring their loved one by respectfully displaying the flag. Here are some meaningful ways to do so:

In a Display Case

A triangular wooden or glass display case is the most common way to preserve and showcase a folded burial flag. These cases protect the flag from dust and damage while allowing it to be a focal point for years to come.

Framed with Military Honors

Many families frame the flag and add medals, photographs, or a certificate of honorable discharge to create a commemorative display. This arrangement may include the Veteran’s ashes in an urn befitting their service, such as this customizable keepsake box. 

Flown Outdoors

If you wish to fly the flag in honor of the deceased Veteran:

• It should be flown on a pole or a wall-mounted bracket.
• It must be illuminated if displayed at night.
• The flag should be taken down or replaced when it becomes tattered.
• If flown at half-staff, follow proper flag etiquette, lowering it to half-staff from sunrise to noon before raising it to full height.

Other Ways to Honor Veterans

Whether presenting a burial flag at a military funeral, placing it in a display case, or flying it proudly, each method reflects deep gratitude and respect for loved ones who served. There are other ways you can honor a Veteran, whether a family member, friend, or simply as a gesture from a grateful citizen:

• Plant a Memorial Tree: Memorial trees are living tributes that symbolize life, renewal, and lasting remembrance. They provide a meaningful way to honor a loved one while contributing to the environment.
• Share an Online Obituary: Tell your Veteran’s story, provide details about an upcoming service or anniversary, and share memories with our free online obituary — even if we didn’t have the honor of serving the Veteran. 
• Observe Memorial Day: Your local funeral home and cemeteries often conduct Memorial Day tributes, including placing American flags or laying a wreath to honor those who served.

Our network of local providers includes certified Veterans Funeral Specialists (VFS) who help Veterans and families access VA burial benefits and military awards and arrange for burial in a national cemetery. They can also connect you to community or nonprofit groups that help specifically with honoring Veterans. Click here to enter your zip code or city to find a Veterans funeral home near you.