Quote Originally Posted by thescot View Post
... the officer in charge would present it to the widow (mother, father, etc.) with the words, "On behalf of a greatful nation."
Speaking of presenting the flag, one of my uncles died two summers ago. He had been in the US Navy, both active and reserve. His ex-wife and their five children were all at the graveside service, which put the officer in charge (who was a close friend of my uncle) in a bit of pickle regarding who should receive the flag. After it was folded, he walked over to the family and asked, "Who will receive J. W.'s flag?" My cousin, who happens to be the oldest son and a Marine, rose and recieved the flag, saluting his late father one last time.
It was a moving way to handle an awkward situation, and was carried out as if it had been rehearsed.

Usually, after the military honors have been performed, I'm cued to strike in and 'pipe "Amazing Grace" or some other suitable tune.