The Post 106 Honor Guard provides military funeral honors for veterans. A CD was produced in 2009 with pictures from the funeral of Frank Hanus a legionnaire from Navarino. Wisconsin. Its purpose was to explain to families of veterans what to expect at the funeral of a loved one. We are grateful to the family of Frank for allowing us to use the pictures to produce the PowerPoint for other families.
It begins by telling how a military funeral is arranged. If the family chooses to have the service the funeral director notifies the legionnaire in charge. The PowerPoint explains that the service can take place at the cemetery and that sometimes it is held outside the church. If at the cemetery the honor guard will arrive before the funeral procession. They will line-up, stand at attention with colors in place along a path to the gravesite until the casket is placed over the grave. A squad leader issues commands and renders a hand salute. All flags except the U.S. Flag are lowered as the veterans casket passes. Once the casket is over the burial vault the squad is called to an at ease position. Church or funeral directors prepare to conduct a committal service with family and friends gathered around the casket. Once the committal service is complete the Post Chaplain reads a brief prayer. Then the U.S. flag over the casket is carefully removed, folded and presented to a pre-determined family member with the following words; “On behalf of the United States Government and through The American Legion I present to you the flag of our country under which our comrade (name) has so nobly served.” The Honor Guard them prepares for a final salute. Three volleys will be fired, which is then followed by the playing of taps. The volleys are fired away from the family and in response to commands of the squad leader. Taps can be very emotional for family members and for fellow veterans as well however, it is a beautiful final tribute to those who have served their country. The squad is then called to “at ease” and dismissed. Spent shells are inspected to make sure they fired and empty shells are available to family members should they choose to keep them. Post 106 is proud to provide this service for Post members and non-members as well.
