Traditional funerals often include a brief committal or internment ceremony at the cemetery. Keeping the climate and comfort of the mourners in mind, special touches can help create a memorable final sendoff.
Ten to fifteen minutes should be a sufficient amount of time for family and friends to gather at the cemetery if there has already been a memorial service preceding it elsewhere. Since seating is usually only available for the immediate family, much longer than that can become uncomfortable.
During most internment ceremonies, brief remarks, Scripture, and prayers are said. Beyond this standard fare, you may wish to incorporate something into the ceremony that is representative of your loved one.
- A song or hymn sung by a soloist or by the mourners
- An instrumental piece (bagpipes, brass, woodwinds, strings)
- The release of doves, balloons, or butterflies
- Blow bubbles
- Plant a tree
- Hire an airplane to sky write the person’s name
On January 1, 2000, the Department of Defense began implementing the “Honoring Those Who Served” plan to provide military honors for those who have served their country. The law requires that every eligible veteran receive a military honors ceremony to include folding and presenting the United States burial flag and the playing of Taps. Additional honors might also be available, including a flyover and 21-gun salute.