Very mixed end of the year.

[mjr]

So I've been reading up on protocols for these Standard Honors funerals.

I even watched a Navy Training video that shows the process. I found it informative.

I'm hoping I get the shell casings, too. But not in the flag.

[Pixelated]

I'm so sorry for your loss. It's hard at any time of the year, never mind during the holidays.

[csquared]

My deepest sympathies for your loss.

My understanding is that you get the "flag ceremony". Flag draped coffin, folded and present by an honor guard, and taps (it may be a recording).

You may want to contact the local VFW lodge. You may find volunteers for the salute or other services.

[mjr]

I am sorry to hear that. My personal experience is that it may take a while to absorb, especially if you are distracted making arrangements. It's okay if you don't really know how to feel, too. I think I grieved for my dad in bits and pieces over a long time period. I hope his end was a peaceful one.

Thank you.

My sister is making the arrangements. She's been keeping me posted, though. It's looking like it will be sometime next week, though.

He was in the Navy, and served in Vietnam, and my sister is trying to set up a Navy Military Honors funeral through the funeral home. I'm not sure to what extent (some funerals do a 3-round volley, and some don't). Based on my reading, and a YouTube video, the minimum is Taps, and the folding and presenting of the flag.

He was a Petty Officer Third Class (E-4), and Aviation Structure Mechanic (Hydraulic), making him AMH3.

It hasn't fully hit me yet, but I did catch myself choking up a little even reading about it and watching the video of what happens at Military Honors funerals.

[AnaKhouri]

I am sorry to hear that. My personal experience is that it may take a while to absorb, especially if you are distracted making arrangements. It's okay if you don't really know how to feel, too. I think I grieved for my dad in bits and pieces over a long time period. I hope his end was a peaceful one.

[mjr]

I've had a very mixed end of the year. Christmas was very nice. My wife and I both got each other nice gifts, and our son enjoyed what we got him.

However...

My father passed away on the morning of Dec. 29th. It hasn't completely sunk in yet, and we weren't as close as we could have been. He was 67.