Memorial and Flag presentation

Commander: We are here to pay a lasting tribute of respect to our departed comrade.

   When the call of our country was heard, our comrade answered; self was forgotten in the cause of the greater good.  As a brave man marched away with an abiding faith in God, his Country and his Flag.

   The red of our country’s flag was made redder still by his heroism; the white, more stainlessly pure by the motives which impelled him; and, in the starry field of our nation’s glorious banner, the blue has been glorified by the service he gave for American ideals.

   Chaplain: Almighty and Merciful God! Father of us all!  Amidst the monuments of the dead we see Thy hand.

   In the depth of our sorrow we realize the truth of the inspired words: “I am the resurrection and the life; he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.”

   As comrade after comrade departs we march on with the ranks grown thinner.

   Help us to be faithful unto Thee and to one another.

   We beseech Thee, look in mercy upon all of us here assembled and, with Thine own tenderness, console and comfort those bereaved by the hand of death.

   Give them the “oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.”

   Heavenly Father, bless our country with freedom, peace and righteousness, and though Thy Sovereign and Holy Spirit’s favor, may we all meet at last before Thy throne of Grace in Heaven.  And to Thy Great Name shall be praise for ever and ever. Amen.

Commander: One by one, as the years roll on, we are called upon to fulfill these sad duties of respect to our departed comrades.

   The present, full of the cares that beset all nations whether engaged in war or peace, fades away as we look back on the day this comrade left his home to defend his country.  Imbued by the spirit of devotion and inspired by an undying love of his land, he gladly went forth and joined with comrades both young and old to preserve our heritage of freedom.

   We trust that the example set by our comrade will prove a glorious beacon to the youth of our country, who may be called to uphold the honor of our flag.

Taps

“On behalf of the President of the United States, the Department of the Air Force, and a grateful nation we offer this flag for the faithful and dedicated service of your loved one.”  “May God bless you, your family and the United States of America.”

Taps

“This flag is presented on behalf of a grateful nation and the United States Army as a token of appreciation for your loved one’s honorable and faithful service.”   “May God bless you, your family and the United States of America.”

Taps

“On behalf of the President of the United States, the Commandant of the Coast Guard, and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one’s service.”  “May God bless you, your family and the United States of America.”

Taps

“On behalf of the President of the United States, the Commandant of the Marine Corps and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one’s service.” “May God bless you, your family and the United States of America.”

Taps

“On behalf of the President of the United States and the Chief of Naval Operations, and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one’s service.” “May God bless you, your family and the United States of America.”