Dayton National Cemetery
Honor Squad

Our Mission:

The Honor Squad assists the Department of Defense’s (DOD) military funeral detail by providing the rifle salute. Together with the DOD’s uniformed military personnel from the veteran’s branch of service that fold and present the U.S. burial flag and play Taps, the Honor Squad ensures that full military funeral honors are provided to eligible military veterans at the Dayton National Cemetery.

Formation:

The Dayton National Cemetery Honor Squad debuted on Memorial Day, 2015. Prior to its forming, 90% of veterans interred at the Dayton National Cemetery did NOT receive full military honors. Since that date, 100% of veterans buried receive full military honors.

Funeral Honors:

The Department of Defense organizes an honor team which performs military funeral honors, including the playing of “TAPS,” folding the American flag, and the presentation of the flag to the deceased’s next of kin. The Honor Squad supplements this team by firing a three-round rifle volley, as well as provides the duties of the DOD when they are not available and other acts which serve to provide veterans with full military honors.

Rifle Salute History:

The three-round rifle volley originated in 17th Century Europe during the Dynastic Wars. This traditional battle ceasefire is where each side would clear the dead. The firing of three volleys indicated the dead were cleared and properly cared for.

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