If your loved one was an active member or veteran of the Armed Forces when they passed away, they could be eligible for a funeral with military honors. Although there are a few similarities, there are also key differences between traditional and military funerals. To prepare for the ceremony, here is a brief explanation regarding what to expect and a guide to funeral flowers that are appropriate for the occasion. 

What Does a Military Funeral Entail?

A military funeral is held to honor a person's service in the Armed Forces. If the service member is buried at a national cemetery, mourners will first be led to a committal shelter onsite for the committal service. Similar to a traditional funeral, the ceremony can include readings from religious leaders and the deceased's friends and family. 

At least two military personnel in uniform will also be in attendance to serve as the military funeral honors detail. One of these individuals will play "Taps" on a bugle or trumpet. This song is traditionally played at military events. 

The ceremony also includes a three-rifle volley, which is a ritual where three rifles simultaneously fire three blanks to pay tribute to a fallen soldier. The uniformed service members will also hold national, unit, and departmental flags at the ceremony. They will also fold the military burial flag and present it to the closest surviving family member. 

What Types of Flower Arrangements Should You Consider?

It is okay to bring funeral flowers to the ceremony. The arrangement will be displayed with the casket or urn at the committal shelter and then moved to the gravesite. Carnations are appropriate for a military funeral bouquet or spray, as the flowers symbolize honor. 

Roses are also a classic choice. Opt for red and white varieties paired with blue hydrangeas, which symbolize perseverance. The trio of colors can represent the United States flag. Instead of red roses, you could also choose red poppies. The flowers are featured in the World War I-era poem In Flanders' Fields, which is about fallen soldiers.

To honor a fallen service member or veteran at a military funeral, contact the professionals at Ivywood Florist in Enterprise, AL, for assistance. The florists have been custom-making funeral flower arrangements for people in the Wiregrass area since 1998. Premade floral arrangements are also available for in-store pickup. See pictures of the bouquets online and call (334) 347-7343 to discuss your needs with a representative and schedule flower delivery within a 15-mile radius of Enterprise.