At my uncles funeral today, after folding the flag, the marines each saluted it, one at a time. They did it in slow motion, I am wondering why that is? Is there a reason?
2007-10-27 15:28:23 · 10 answers · asked by my_trey 1 in Politics & Government ➔ Military
I just wanted to thank everyone for such fast answers and they really helped. I am glad it was a sign of honor, he deserved that!
2007-10-27 15:38:13 · update #1
It is a sign of respect. They are taking time to show respect to someone who has served their country. it is more dignified then just giving a quick salute and then leaving.
2007-10-27 17:04:23 · answer #1 · answered by thewedge226 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
It is a regulation salute for the Army, at least.
FM 22-5 states that when the pallbearer places the flag in the hands of the OIC/NCOIC, he salutes for three seconds before returning to his position.
The OIC then presents the flag to the NOK, with a short statement: "This flag is presented on behalf of a grateful nation, as a token of our apppreciation for the honorable and faithful service rendered by your loved one.” (this is slightly different for each service).
At that point the OIC salutes the flag (for three seconds).
2007-10-27 16:19:41 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's not just done at funerals. The slow salute is done in any ceremony that is honoring someone. For instance, it is also done when the flag is presented to a retiring military member.
2007-10-27 15:48:38 · answer #3 · answered by kathy_is_a_nurse 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Its a sign of honor, Taps is a very slow song giving people time to think about their loved ones. Hence the salute being given at a very slow rate.
The playing of Taps and a salute is of the upmost respect and deceased service memebrs can recieve.
2007-10-27 15:39:59 · answer #4 · answered by quintero.pitts@sbcglobal.net 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I am sorry for your loss.
yes it is a form of respect. The salute takes about 3 seconds up and 3 seconds down. the police do it too.
2007-10-27 15:31:27 · answer #5 · answered by Kevy 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
It is a sign of honor, just as the flag is honored by lowering it slowly when taking it down.
2007-10-27 15:31:08 · answer #6 · answered by Gray Wanderer 7 · 4⤊ 0⤋
I don't know but I did notice that at my brother and father's funeral. I am a AF Vet, my brother and father were both Navy!
I do think it has something to do with Taps being played and the tempo of the music.
2007-10-27 15:33:20 · answer #7 · answered by Free Thinker 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
a somber gesture
2007-10-27 16:44:33 · answer #8 · answered by Will 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Quite impressive, isn't it?
2007-10-27 16:05:03 · answer #9 · answered by Barry auh2o 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's tradition, and is intended to portray respect and honor. But personally I've always disliked it -- it looks non-genuine and reluctant to me.
2007-10-27 15:37:54 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 8⤋