what do the 3 shells represent in the folded flag of a honored vet laid to rest?

Question

my father had full military burial after they folded the flag they inserted 3 polished shells. I'm sure they stand for something can someone please tell me. i have not been able to find the answer anywhere

my dad served 21 years for the usarmy and 20 years for the federal gov as postmaster if that helps at all

Answer 1

I will give you this quote from the speech the head of the Honor Guard gives to the recipient of the folded flag:
"On behalf of the United States Government and the Veterans Honor Guard, I present you with this flag under which our comrade served.
My condolences and God Bless You.
Inside this flag I place three empty cartridges.
One is for Duty.
One is for Honor.
One is for Country."
This is the official speech. I hope this answers your question.

Answer 2

Folded Flag Meaning

Answer 3

The three shells are placed inside the flag to represent the three volleys fired over the grave as part of a military funeral. They are placed there as a sign that this person was accorded miltary honors at their funeral. Nothing else is ever supposed to be placed inside the folded flag.
I am very sorry for your loss. I am a Marine, and salute your father for his service. As part of a grateful nation, thank you for sharing him.

Answer 4

Did they fire the three rifle volleys at the funeral? I know sometimes they don't because either they can't get the rifle squad or there's a local noise ordinance or the family requests it.

The three shells represent the three volleys that are part of the military honors.

Answer 5

My Son was just buried with full military honors, the three shell casings represent a round from each volley of a 21 Gun salute.

Answer 6

Well I did a lot of military funerals when I was at Ft Devens after I came back from Vietnam in 1967and we didn't put any brass in the flag! I don't have a clue! Would be interested in finding out though!