Military honors

**ohiopiper** · 20th February 10, 05:21 AM

Most of the time you can simply contact the closest chapter of the VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) and they will handle arrangements. Just did this with my Aunt two weeks ago. I contacted the VFW, they contacted the Army and things went off without a hitch.

Matter of fact, we contacted the Chillocothe, Ohio branch and they arranged for honors at the cemetery where she was buried in Chesterland, five hours north of Chillicothe.

**macwilkin** · 20th February 10, 05:24 AM

Originally Posted by Jock Scot

I hope you don't mind me asking, but would the local Patriot Guard, if asked nicely, turn out for a funeral of a retired British serviceman who has taken up residence in the USA? I am sorry to say that I have a potential situation in the near future where a lonely Brit could do with a few friends for his final journey in this world. Just thinking ahead that is all. Thank you.

Jock,

I know that there are a number of British and Commonwealth servicemen buried in the National Cemetery at Jefferson Barracks just south of St. Louis (mostly air crews killed in training crashes), and every year, there is a ceremony on Remembrance Day with members of the the various British heritage groups (Daughters of the British Empire, St. Andrew's Society, etc.) that participate. If I remember correctly, the British consul and (maybe even the British military attache) from Chicago has attended.

T.

**Riverkilt** · 20th February 10, 10:44 AM

Back in the 70s worked for a direct cremation company and ALWAYS went to the post office for a flag for deceased veterans and kept that flag over their cardboard cremation casket until we took them to the crematory.

Found it interesting that some wanted to be cremated in full dress uniform. Seemed a waste to me - that the uniform would be more a comfort to the family, but to each his own.

Its also important that the surviving spouse contact VA immediately for any benefits. My mother got $1,000 a month for my father's combat service in War2 and that made all the difference financially. Sadly, we were stupid and didn't know about it until 20 years later. So many families don't know to check.

**PiobBear** · 20th February 10, 02:59 PM

Are these honors available for all US military who were discharged honorably?

Yes; you just need their DD214.

**james a. husky** · 20th February 10, 08:00 PM

Jock,

Where is your friend?

If he's in South Florida, I'll guarantee that at least one of his escorts will be riding in a kilt!

Jim aka kiltiemon (VVA, PGR)

**ohneplo** · 20th February 10, 09:14 PM

Originally Posted by PiobBear

No one told them (until I did) that their Dad was entitled to a military honor guard, "Taps", and an American flag at no charge. I emailed them the Flag Request Form to take to their Post Office, and a Military Honors Request Form from the Florida National Guard. They were quite grateful for the tip, and their Dad got the respect he deserved.

PiobBear,

Thanks for spreading the word, so that our brothers and sisters will be honored as they deserve. My Salute to you Sir, and to all who have and are serving.

Bruce
Capt USN RET

**Jock Scot** · 21st February 10, 01:34 AM

Originally Posted by james a. husky

Jock,

Where is your friend?

If he's in South Florida, I'll guarantee that at least one of his escorts will be riding in a kilt!

Jim aka kiltiemon (VVA, PGR)

You are all so kind, but I think popping up to South Dakota may be asking rather a lot of you, Jim. Chaps, please don't get too fired up about this as I am only thinking ahead, but it is really nice to know that there are people over there that are willing to spare a few minutes of their time for brave men and women.

**macwilkin** · 27th February 10, 08:50 PM

Originally Posted by Jock Scot

You are all so kind, but I think popping up to South Dakota may be asking rather a lot of you, Jim. Chaps, please don't get too fired up about this as I am only thinking ahead, but it is really nice to know that there are people over there that are willing to spare a few minutes of their time for brave men and women.

Jock,

You might see if there is a local St. Andrew's Society and/or Chapter of the Scottish American Military Society in South Dakota.

T.

**hvygunner** · 14th April 10, 09:11 AM

Just my .02...

While funeral honors are supported by law for American veterans, and not for the Veterans of our allies, I don't think you would find any American Veteran groups not willing to render honors in an "unofficial" status. Having stood the line with some of UK's finest, I wouldn't hesitate to participate, especially if the veteran had no kith, kin, or comrades in attendance.

I might also recommend researching local re-enactment groups who portray UK (or other) forces, they might be able to recommend the proper protocols relating to nation-specific ceremonies (for instance, the proper folding of the Union Jack versus the folding of our National Colors...) as well as the proper manual of arms for the veteran's saluting detail.

The bottom line, however, is that as long as honors are rendered with respect and military bearing, I should think that there are no hard and fast protocols.

**davidlpope** · 14th April 10, 10:04 AM

Originally Posted by Jock Scot

You are all so kind, but I think popping up to South Dakota may be asking rather a lot of you, Jim. Chaps, please don't get too fired up about this as I am only thinking ahead, but it is really nice to know that there are people over there that are willing to spare a few minutes of their time for brave men and women.

I'd check with the local Marine Corps League. These folks tend to be a motivated bunch and there's quite a bit of shared service with specific battalions (Royal Welsh Fusiliers, Black Watch, etc.).

David