A US Marine Corps rifle platoon stands ready for a service on Nimitz Drive. Military funerals have their own rites and traditions that have evolved through the ages. The returning of the dead, preparation of the body, funeral service with orations, procession to place of interment (with escorts and music), graveside rites, etc…, all have their roots from antiquity. Today’s customary three volleys fired over a grave probably originated as far back as the Roman Empire. This custom is incorrectly referred to as a “21-gun-salute”.

A US Marine Corps rifle platoon stands ready for a service on Nimitz Drive. Military funerals have their own rites and traditions that have evolved through the ages. The returning of the dead, preparation of the body, funeral service with orations, procession to place of interment (with escorts and music), graveside rites, etc…, all have their roots from antiquity. Today’s customary three volleys fired over a grave probably originated as far back as the Roman Empire. This custom is incorrectly referred to as a “21-gun-salute”.