Visiting Clergy Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

funerals-chaplains-faq

 

What do I do when the soldiers salute?

The military salutes in a variety of situations. If you are not in the military, or are in civilian clothes, you are invited to place your right hand over your heart when the soldiers salute during a military funeral. You can cue off what the soldiers are doing to know when to place your hand over your heart.

The general rules of thumb are: If you are moving past the flag and it is not moving, place your right hand over your heart as you pass. If you are standing still and the flag is passing, place your hand over your heart as the flag passes.

If still in doubt, ask! The Cemetery Representative, who represents Arlington National Cemetery at every service, would be delighted to explain it all to you.


What does the military do, and in what order?

What the military does depends upon the type of funeral. The rank of the individual, as well as some distinctions earned while on active duty, determine the type of honors rendered at the service. The Cemetery Representative can give you details on which kind of service it will be. You can also read descriptions of military funeral honors, or take a look at recent photos, to get an idea of what is normally done at Arlington.


Where can I get more information?

You may contact Arlington National Cemetery's Chaplains Section at 703-614-0344 with questions regarding the religious portions of military funerals. Please remember, however, that this office plays no role whatsoever in determining eligibility, in scheduling or in determining which honors will be rendered. For questions of this nature, please contact Arlington National Cemetery's Interments Section at 877-907-8585.


What about music in the chapel?

Musical selections for funeral services at Old Post Chapel must be approved by the officiating chaplain or the religious leader conducting the service. All music used for funeral services should be of a religious and not of a secular nature. This is due to the fact that a chapel service is fully and completely a religious service. Non-religious memorial events should be held elsewhere. Please contact Arlington National Cemetery's Chaplains Section at 703-614-0344 if you have specific questions regarding music. 


Are there any special uniform requirements?

Currently-serving chaplains of the Army normally wear the dress blue uniform with white gloves and blue hat. On rare occasions, the Class A uniform is worn. Check with the Arlington National Cemetery's Army Chaplains Section at 703-614-0344 for more specific guidelines.