Page 22 - AL POST 390 OFFICER'S GUIDE AND MANUAL OF CEREMONIES - 2020

The chaplain offers a benediction (If desired). At the conclusion of the chaplain's service, the chaplain will ask
the family to rise for the rendering of military honors.
Firing squad commander: `'Salute our departed comrade(s)."

The officer in charge of the firing squad gives order according to infantry drill regulations in force at the time.

The squad fires three rounds of blank cartridges, the muzzles of the pieces being elevated. The bugler plays
taps and two pallbearers remove the U.S. flag from the casket, fold it in the tradltional manner (see page 75),
and place it on the arm of the chaplain, who will present the flag to the nearest kin`

The escort forms a column, marches in quick time to where it flrst assembled, and dismissed.
American Legion military funeral escorts

A full American Legion military funeral requires 21 Legionnaires in uniform: one chaplain, two color guards,
eight firing squad members, one bugler, one commander, six pallbearers, and two color bearers of the firing
squad. The firing squad commander is in charge of all details and movements. The firing squad should be
composed of members who are familiar with handling a rifle. The squad should meet prior to the service
and simulate volley firing. The entire escort should be arranged according to height and uniform worn.

In some instances, a family calls upon the post to take charge of the church or home service as well as the
graveside service. As a general rule, however, the church has charge of the church or home services, after
which the post chaplain conducts the final rites. The post conducting the funeral should confer with the
clergy and the funeral director beforehand on the exact procedure to be followed.

Post service in place of worship, chapel or home

The entire escort should be inside. All uncover except those bearing arms or colors. The pallbearers and firing
squad should sit as Separate groups.
Post service following those at place of worship, chapel or home

Pallbearers are covered, even when carrying the casket. When the casket comes into view, the firing squad
commander calls members to attention.

Firing squad commander: "Escort, attention."

Firing squad commander: "Present arms."
The commander salutes. As the chaplain leads the body through the escort, the commander holds the right
hand salute. The chaplain salutes only the flag. The post banner is dipped as the casket passes. The firing squad
remains at "present arms" until the casket is in the hearse and the doors are closed.
Firing squad commander: "Order arms."

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