The United States government provides a burial flag at no cost to drape the casket or accompany the urn of any veteran who served honorably. This flag is yours to keep as a family heirloom after the service.

When draped over a casket, the flag is positioned with the blue field (the union) at the head and over the left shoulder of the deceased. For cremation services, the flag can be displayed near the urn during the memorial service before being folded and presented to the family.

It's important to note that the VA provides only one flag per veteran, and it cannot be replaced if lost or damaged. However, veteran organizations may be able to help families obtain replacement flags in special circumstances. The burial flag you receive is made of cotton and is intended as a keepsake for indoor display rather than outdoor use.

The process of requesting military funeral honors is straightforward. When you're planning the funeral, let us or your funeral director know that you'd like to arrange military honors for your veteran. We'll handle the coordination with the appropriate military branch on your behalf.

We recommend giving at least 48 hours' notice when possible, though we understand that's not always feasible during a difficult time. You'll need to provide a copy of the veteran's DD Form 214 or other discharge documentation to verify eligibility.

At Alhiser-Comer Mortuary, we've coordinated countless military funerals throughout our 128 years of service to the Escondido community. We know how to work with military honor guards, how to time the ceremony properly, and how to ensure everything flows smoothly so your family can focus on honoring your loved one's memory.

In addition to the burial flag and headstone benefits, eligible veterans' families can request a Presidential Memorial Certificate—an engraved paper certificate signed by the current president that honors the memory of the deceased veteran. This certificate is provided at no cost and serves as another meaningful keepsake for families.

All of these honors and benefits apply equally whether your loved one chooses burial or cremation. Cremated remains receive the same military funeral honors as casketed remains.

At Alhiser-Comer Mortuary, we own and operate our own crematorium—Lakepointe Crematorium in Lake Elsinore, which opened in 2001. This means we provide complete continuity of care throughout the entire cremation process, with our licensed personnel handling every step. For military families, this ensures your veteran is treated with the utmost respect and dignity from beginning to end.

During a military funeral with cremation, the burial flag can be displayed near the urn, and all the same ceremonial elements—Taps, the flag folding ceremony, and the presentation to the family—are performed just as they would be for a traditional burial.

If you're a veteran reading this or a family member thinking ahead, pre-planning your funeral arrangements can be one of the most thoughtful gifts you give your loved ones. By making your wishes known now—including whether you want military honors, what branch of service should be represented, and other specific requests—you remove difficult decision-making from family members during an already emotional time.

Pre-planning also gives you time to locate important documents like your DD Form 214, ensure all your information is accurate, and discuss your wishes with family members. You can even specify particular elements you'd like included in your service.

Since 1897, Alhiser-Comer Mortuary has been honored to serve Escondido's military families. We understand that veterans and their families have unique needs, and we're experienced in coordinating with military honor guards, veterans organizations, and government agencies to ensure every detail is handled with precision and respect.

Our staff is familiar with military protocols, the proper display of flags, and the timing required for honor guard ceremonies. We'll work with you to create a meaningful service that properly honors your loved one's sacrifice and service—whether that's a traditional military funeral with full honors or a simpler ceremony that includes the core elements of Taps and flag presentation.

We also understand that many veterans' families have questions about benefits they may not even know are available. That's why we take time to walk families through all the options, from burial flags and headstones to Presidential Memorial Certificates and burial allowances that may help offset funeral costs.

Losing a veteran is never easy, but knowing they'll receive the honor and recognition they deserve can bring some measure of comfort during a difficult time. If you're planning services for a veteran or want to learn more about what military funeral honors entail, we're here to help.

Our compassionate team at Alhiser-Comer Mortuary is available 24/7 to answer your questions and guide you through every step of the process. You can reach us anytime at (760) 745-2162, or visit our peaceful facility at 225 S Broadway in Escondido to discuss your needs in person.

Every veteran's service is unique, and their final tribute should be too. Let us help you create a meaningful ceremony that honors your loved one's dedication to our country while providing your family with the closure and healing you need.

Because at the end of the day, those who served deserve nothing less than our deepest respect and gratitude—in life and in death.