Page 24 - AL POST 390 OFFICER'S GUIDE AND MANUAL OF CEREMONIES - 2020

When the casket is in position, the following general plan is satisfactory:

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As the chaplain begins the graveside service, the commander brings the firing squad and pallbearers to
parade rest, holds position until the chaplain's services are completed, then says, "Escort, attention."The
chaplain will ask the family to rise for the rendering of military honors.

At the commander's order, "F{eady," bring the rifle so that the muzzle of the rifle is level with point of
chin. The right foot should be placed to the rear about 10 inches. The right hand should be on small of
stock and left hand at rear of sight.

At the command "Load" (rifles should be loaded, none in the chamber before the body is taken from
hearse), work the bolt and put the cartridge in the chamber.

Remain at position of"Ready" until order `'Aim" is given. An aiming point should be designated so
elevation of rifles is uniform. The command of execution is "Fire."

After firing, the first and second volleys come to position of"Ready" and wait for the command, "Ready,
aim, fire." Upon completion of the third volley, come to "Present arms"without command.

If the rifle jams, don't attempt to fix it; simulate firing.
The bugler takes position at the head of the grave and sounds taps. Echo taps, if possible, is impressive.

The commander of the firing squad says, "Order arms."

Following the firing squad volley, two pallbearers remove the flag from the casket, fold it in the traditional
manner and place it on the arm of chaplain, who will give the flag to the nearest kin following the service.

Chaplain: ''On behalf of the president of the United States (the United States Army, the United States
Marine Corps, the United States Navy, the united States Air Force or the United States Coast Guard) and
a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one's honorable
service."

This concludes the service, and the commander says, "Flight or left face, at trail, forward, march,"
followed by the colors and then by pallbearers.

68 I I ,I ) ,\ \ii` \il,\`` I I:i K-,i\ i oFFlcER's GUIDE , 7020