Proper Care and Ironing of the U.S. Flag at Military Burials

The U.S. flag is a symbol of honor and respect, particularly when used to drape the casket of a fallen military member. Ensuring the flag is clean, wrinkle-free, and presented in a dignified manner is paramount during a memorial service. This article explores the importance of ironing the U.S. flag before it is used, the reasons behind proper care, and how this practice contributes to the solemnity of the event.

The Significance of Proper Care

The U.S. flag should be properly cared for before being used to drape a casket. While it is not a strict requirement, it is generally considered respectful to ensure the flag is clean and wrinkle-free. Ironing the flag can help achieve this, but care must be taken to avoid damaging the fabric.

Ironing should be done with a low heat setting to prevent scorching or burning the material. It is also advisable to place a cloth between the iron and the flag to provide an added barrier. The ultimate goal is to present the flag in a dignified manner, reflecting the respect and honor bestowed upon the fallen soldier.

The VA’s Role in Provisioning Flags

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides flags for military burials. These flags are typically folded into a small square box, which can result in a heavy cotton fabric with many well-set wrinkles. Many funeral directors and burial attendees believe that ironing the flag is necessary to remove these wrinkles.

Ironing at Home

In the 1980s, when the author was a young funeral director, they used to iron the flags themselves with regular home equipment. While a standard steam iron was often not large enough, and a home ironing board was both small and poorly shaped for the task, the result was often satisfactory. However, professional facilities provide a much better job, and the author found it was easier to send the flags out to be professionally ironed.

Professional Ironing Services

The VA often sends flags directly to funeral homes, folded in a small box. These flags require pressing to remove creases and make them presentable for the funeral home to pick up for the internment. Some funeral homes or cleaners may offer this service for free. For instance, a local cleaner may be able to iron the flag and remove any wrinkles caused by the box the VA sent it in. If the flag is to be folded in the casket, it may not need to be ironed.

Personal Perspectives

Some individuals believe that everything should be ironed thoroughly before use. This includes flags for military burials. Dry cleaners often get flags from the VA, iron them, and make sure they are presentable for the funeral home to pick up. These establishments understand the importance of a well-ironed flag and can perform the task for a minimal fee.

Despite the importance of ironing, some professionals, such as the author, do not iron the flag themselves. Personal preference plays a significant role in determining whether to iron the flag. Ironing the flag may not be necessary if the living attendees would not appreciate it, but if they do, it is a nice touch that reflects the respect and honor paid to the fallen soldier.

Conclusion

In summary, ironing the U.S. flag before it is used to drape a casket is a practice that many believe is important for ensuring the flag is clean, wrinkle-free, and presented in a dignified manner. While it is not a strict requirement, the process helps to honor the fallen military member and the families who have lost their loved ones. Whether this involves professional services or personal care, the effort to properly care for the flag is a reflection of the respect and honor paid to the service of the soldier.